Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is often the first thing that can be taken to manage symptoms that hinder everyday life. Many people are hesitant to seek a diagnosis however, it can be a great relief.
An ADHD assessment typically begins with a clinical interview. Experts may also administer screening tests to detect co-existing conditions like mood disorders or learning disabilities.
Signs and symptoms
The disorder was first documented in medical science in 1902, and has been referred to by several names, most recently attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with or without hyperactivity (DSM-5). ADHD can be caused by an imbalance in the chemical system of the brain. Adults suffering from ADHD frequently have difficulty organizing tasks and paying attention at school or at work and remembering important events. They are susceptible to impulsive behaviors such as cutting lines or interrupting others, as well as ignoring rules. They may also have problems making appointments, completing tasks or paying their bills.
It is important to find a doctor who has been trained in ADHD when trying to diagnose the condition. Ask for a referral by an established source like an organization for mental health in your area or a support group. You can also check with your insurance company to find out whether they have any specialists who specialize in ADHD.
A thorough psychiatric examination will include a detailed patient description of symptoms and a thorough review of the family history and personal history, including any past mental health, medical and educational issues and an examination of psychoeducational or neuropsychological tests as well as a physical examination. Additionally, the doctor will also interview significant others, such as spouses or partners to find out the extent to which ADHD symptoms impact their lives. Many adults with ADHD have a poor memory of their childhood, and it is helpful to have parents or other family members complete questionnaires that describe the child's symptoms.
Adults suffering from ADHD might be hesitant to admit that their issues are caused by their attention deficit disorder. They may be embarrassed, frustrated and ashamed for having trouble staying focused and organized at home and at work. They might also believe their problems are their own fault or imperfections in their character. Finding a diagnosis of ADHD can bring relief and optimism for the future and help them realize that their issues are not their fault.
Diagnosis
There isn't a single physical or medical test to determine ADHD (previously called ADD). However an experienced mental health specialist will collect information from various sources regarding your child's and adult's symptoms. These include ADHD symptom checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales, a detailed history of both present and past functioning and information from those who know the person well.
A thorough evaluation can also include a psycho-psychological examination like a personality inventory or a neuropsychological test. A health care provider will also examine the medical history of the patient, including past or current injuries, illnesses, as well as medications, including the mood-stabilizing drug steroids.
Other conditions and disorders can be a source of ADHD symptoms. additional resources includes learning disabilities, anxiety disorders and mood disorders, as and other medical conditions such a sleep apnea and thyroid conditions. A thorough psychiatric examination will help identify the root cause and identify effective treatment options.
The most important aspect to consider when determining ADHD is whether the patient's symptoms result in significant impairments in at least two major settings - such as school and home. This is especially true for young children and adolescents. These individuals may struggle to be successful in school, may have trouble keeping their jobs, and may have difficulty maintaining relationships and friendships without treatment.
It's crucial to seek an evaluation from an expert in health care who has worked with children and teens. Many primary care doctors and mental health professionals frequently diagnose ADHD, but you should look for a specialist who takes the time to perform a thorough examination. During the appointment the doctor will ask you about your child's development and your family history. He or she will also review the criteria established by the American Psychiatric Association for diagnosing ADHD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition.
Treatment
There are a variety of psychiatric disorders which can cause ADHD in both adults and children. A complete psychiatric assessment is necessary to determine if there are any other disorders. These include anxiety disorders and mood disorders. They also include learning disabilities and thyroid issues, head trauma and use of drugs. These other explanations can have a significant impact on the quality of life.
A comprehensive mental health assessment includes an interview with the person being evaluated and checklists and questionnaires that are completed by other people in their lives. This could include parents and spouses for children, as well siblings, coworkers and friends for adults. Personal insight can provide information that is not gained from checklists or questions. It also helps the clinician to understand the ways in which ADHD symptoms affect a person's relationships with other people.
The psychologist or psychiatrist will review the patient's medical records as well as their symptoms. A physical examination, which includes audio and vision tests, is also carried out. An electroencephalograph or EEG scan, which measures brain waves and can help identify the presence of ADHD, is available in some offices.
Some patients opt to take part in a clinical trial to determine if a new medication will improve their symptoms. Participants should be aware that the primary objective of a study is to gain new knowledge and not to treat a specific condition.
Depending on the results, the doctor could prescribe psychotherapy, medication, or other interventions. In some cases, a combination of treatments is most efficient. Medication can alleviate some of the symptoms and is generally safe for children and adults. Other interventions that can be successful include the use of behavior therapy, lifestyle modifications and parenting strategies.
Medication
Certain people can increase their functioning by taking medication to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. It can be difficult to determine the right medication and dosage, and it can take a while to adjust to side effects. Some medications can cause someone to feel tired or sleepy, so it is important to discuss this with a physician.
Psychiatrists might prescribe stimulants to lessen the symptoms of ADHD. These drugs increase the levels in the brain of certain neurotransmitters. They can also prescribe non-stimulant medications that can improve concentration, impulsivity, and attention but aren't as efficient as stimulants. They can prescribe mood stabilizers or antidepressants for those suffering from depression, as well as other disorders that could be present alongside ADHD.
Family therapy, psychotherapy and training or educational programs for children and adults are additional treatments that can help those with ADHD. These treatments can help people learn strategies and skills to cope with their symptoms and improve their functioning at home and school.
In certain instances a mental or medical health professional can identify ADHD in a child by reviewing school records and discussing the child's behavior with caretakers and teachers. They will likely interview the child, conduct psychological tests, and screen to see if there are any learning disabilities or other conditions with similar symptoms.
For a child to receive an ADHD diagnosis they must show at least six of nine symptoms listed in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM-IV TR) and the symptoms must be significant enough to affect adaptive functioning in the classroom and at home. In addition, they should not be better explained by a different condition.
Counseling
If you need treatment or medication management for ADHD look for a certified specialist who has experience treating the disorder. Your primary care doctor will be able to give you the recommendation or refer you to specialists in the area. Certain specialists who specialize in ADHD offer online telemedicine to make appointments simpler and more convenient. Many insurance companies allow you to schedule appointments through their system.
Doctors and ADHD specialists can diagnose ADHD in children by discussing their symptoms with parents and teachers in-depth, observing them in different settings, interviewing the family members and conducting a assessment of a learning disability. They also review the school records and complete questionnaires by teachers and caregivers. To be diagnosed the adult or adolescent must exhibit at least five of the following symptoms:
A thorough medical history is necessary to determine ADHD. Because adults have often poor or blurry memories of childhood, clinicians might seek information from outside sources, such as spouses or other family members. They should also be able to identify other possible causes for ADHD-like symptoms, such as developmental disorders, brain injuries or other health issues.
During the first meeting, the specialist will assess how the patient copes with ADHD symptoms and the impact these symptoms have on their daily life. They should also discuss any previous ADHD assessments or treatments. It's also helpful to recognize other conditions that have similar symptoms with ADHD such as anxiety and mood disorders. In addition to the evaluation of an individual and their mental health condition, a professional should also be listening to the person in a respectful manner and without judgement. This is especially important if there is a history of depression, or drug abuse.