Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD is usually the first step in managing symptoms that affect daily activities. Many people are uncomfortable seeking an assessment. However, it could be a relief.
A clinical interview is usually the first step in an ADHD evaluation. Experts can also conduct screening tests to determine if there are co-existing conditions like learning disabilities or mood disorders.
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 is often caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. Adults suffering from ADHD often have trouble with organizational tasks, paying attention in work or school and retaining important information. They are susceptible to impulsive behavior, such as cutting lines and interrupting others, or not following rules. They may also have problems completing projects, keeping appointments or paying bills.
When seeking a diagnosis, it is crucial to find a clinician trained in ADHD. Check with local chapters of mental health organizations, a local support group, or seek an appointment from a trusted source. It is also a good idea to contact your insurance company to determine if there are providers in the network who specialize in ADHD.
A thorough psychiatric examination will include a thorough explanation of symptoms of the patient, review of personal and family history including any medical, psychiatric and academic issues, the testing for neuropsychological or psychoeducational tests and a physical exam. Additionally, the doctor will interview significant others such as spouses or partners to determine how ADHD symptoms affect their lives. It is important to ask parents or other relatives about the signs of ADHD in adults. Many adults with ADHD do not have a memory of their childhood.
Adults suffering from ADHD may have difficulty admitting that their problems stem from their attention deficit disorder. They may feel shamed, angry and frustrated for not being focused and organized at home and at work. They may also believe that their problems are their own shortcomings or character flaws. A diagnosis of ADHD may provide hope and relief for the future, and enable them to realize that their issues aren't the blame.
Diagnosis
There is no single medical test or physical test to diagnose ADHD (previously known as ADD). However a trained mental health professional will gather information from many sources regarding your child's or adult's symptoms. These include ADHD symptom lists as well as standardized scales of behavioral assessment and a thorough history of the person's past and current functioning.
A thorough examination could also include a psychological examination, such as a personality inventory or neuropsychological tests. Additionally the health care professional will examine the patient's medical history, which includes current or past illnesses, injuries and use of medications, such as the mood-stabilizing drugs like steroids.
It's important to note that other conditions and disorders can mimic the symptoms of ADHD. This includes learning disabilities, anxiety disorders, mood disorders and other medical problems such as sleep apnea, head injuries and thyroid disorders. A thorough evaluation of psychiatric disorders will help identify the root cause and determine the most effective treatment.
The symptoms of a person must be causing significant impairment in two or more significant settings, such as at home and in school, in order to qualify for ADHD diagnosis. This is particularly relevant for children and young people. Without treatment, these individuals can struggle to succeed in school, find it difficult to maintain jobs, and struggle to maintain relationships and friendships.
It is essential to get an evaluation from a medical specialist who is specialized in working with children and adolescents. You can find many primary care doctors or mental health professionals who diagnose ADHD. However it is recommended to find a specialist that will do a thorough assessment. During the appointment your doctor will inquire with you about your child and your family history. They will also review the criteria outlined by the American Psychiatric Association for diagnosing ADHD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition.
Treatment
Many psychiatric disorders can mimic ADHD in children and adults, and a complete psychiatric evaluation is required to rule out any other conditions. These include mood disorders, anxiety disorders and learning disabilities, head injuries, thyroid conditions and use of drugs. These alternate explanations can have a significant impact on quality of life.
A thorough mental health assessment usually includes an interview with the patient, and also checklists or questionnaires that are completed by other people in their lives. This may include parents, spouses and siblings, as well as teachers for children, co-workers, friends and therapists for adults. Personal insights often reveal information that can't be culled from a list of questions or checklists as well as helps the clinician understand how a person's ADHD symptoms may have impacted their relationships with others.
The psychiatrist or psychologist will examine the medical records of the patient as well as their symptoms. A physical exam is typically also performed, which includes vision and hearing tests. An electroencephalograph or EEG scan, which measures brain waves and can help identify the presence of ADHD, is available in some offices.
Some patients choose to take part in a clinical study to see if the new medication they are taking will help their symptoms. However, they should be aware that the primary goal of a clinical study is to gain new knowledge in science and not to treat a condition.
Based on the results, the doctor may suggest psychotherapy, medication or other interventions. In some cases an integrated treatment may be the most efficient. Medication is generally safe for adults and children, and can help alleviate certain symptoms. Other interventions that can be beneficial include behavior therapy, lifestyle changes and parenting strategies.
Medication
Some people can improve their functioning by taking medication to lessen the symptoms of ADHD. It can be challenging to determine the right medication and dosage, and it can take a while to adjust to side effects. It is crucial to speak with your physician if you feel sleepy or drowsy after taking certain medicines.
Psychiatrists may prescribe stimulants, that increase the amount of certain neurotransmitters within the brain to lessen the symptoms of ADHD. They can also prescribe non-stimulant medications that improve attention, impulsivity and focus but aren't as effective as stimulants. They can also prescribe antidepressants or mood stabilisers for people with depression, as well as other disorders that could be present in conjunction with ADHD.
Other therapies that can benefit people with ADHD include psychotherapy, family therapy, and training or educational programs for adults and children. These treatments can help people learn skills and strategies to manage their symptoms and improve functioning at home and at school.
A mental or medical professional might be able to determine ADHD in a child by reviewing the school records of the child and discussing his behavior with caregivers and teachers. They will likely interview the child, conduct psychological testing, and screen to see if there are any problems with learning or any other condition with similar symptoms.
In order for a child to be diagnosed with ADHD the child must exhibit at least six of the nine symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV TR) and these symptoms must significantly hinder the ability to function at home and in the classroom. In addition, they should not be better explained by another condition.
Counseling
If you require treatment or medication for ADHD, find a licensed professional who has experience treating the disorder. Your primary care physician will be able to give you a recommendation or refer you to specialists in the field. Certain specialists who specialize in ADHD also offer telemedicine via the internet making appointments simple and convenient. Many insurance companies allow you to make appointments using their system.
Doctors and ADHD specialists can identify ADHD in children by discussing their symptoms with parents and teachers in-depth by observing them in various settings, interviewing the family members and conducting a learning disability evaluation. They also look over the school records and fill out questionnaires by teachers and caregivers. To be diagnosed an adult or adolescent must present at least five of the following symptoms:
A thorough medical history is necessary to diagnose ADHD. Because adult adhd diagnosis uk have often poor or hazy memories of childhood, doctors may ask for information from independent sources, such as spouses or other family members. They should also be looking for other possible causes, like developmental disorder, brain injury or other health issues, which could be causing ADHD-like symptoms.
During the initial consultation, the doctor should determine how the patient copes with the symptoms of ADHD and consider the impact of these symptoms on their daily life. They must also discuss the results of any prior ADHD assessments and treatments. It's also helpful to recognize other conditions that have similar symptoms with ADHD like anxiety disorders and mood disorders. A mental health professional should not just evaluate an individual but also listen to them without judgment. This is especially important if there is a history of depression, or abuse of drugs.