ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you have ADHD and are concerned, you should speak to a specialist. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also review any medical history you have.
They will also examine how you feel in various situations, including at home, school and in social situations. They will also determine how long you've had these symptoms.
Symptoms
Talk to your child's doctor If you think you suspect that your child has ADHD. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to fill out a questionnaire, and they might ask them to perform certain tests. They can also perform a physical examination, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also utilize FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is a noninvasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves which are more prevalent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must have been present before the child reaches the age of 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two primary settings, such as school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. In order to diagnose adults, doctors use mental health guidelines that provide an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration, as and the degree of impairment.
Kids often have trouble telling the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, so parents might overlook some of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. how to get diagnosed with adhd , mental health issues, and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
People with ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which could lead them to depression. They are often unable to get adequate sleep. a lack of sleep can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely to drink and take drugs, which can have serious consequences for their health. The disorder could cause financial problems or even bankruptcies due to the insanity. It is essential for children to receive a correct diagnosis, because it can aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a healthier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member has been struggling to get organized, have trouble paying attention in class, are having difficulty following directions at work, have social problems, or have other issues that could be caused by ADHD, it is important to consult with a physician for an evaluation. A mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist can help identify ADHD. Some primary care providers also are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extensive interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care professional will examine the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to look for other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms. Certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders or head injuries, as well as certain medications can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health problems, such as anxiety and mood disorders, can also occur in conjunction with ADHD.
A person with ADHD can have either primarily inattention symptoms or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, or both, but the symptoms must be present before age 12 and must continue for at least 6 months. The clinician will also inquire about the person's family and school activities, including the frequency they skip classes or fail to finish their homework. The clinician may also ask to speak with other people who are involved in the person's daily life, including coaches and teachers. They may also request that the person bring a journal.
The person being evaluated must be able and willing to freely talk about their thoughts with the assessor. They shouldn't be afraid of being judged or criticized. This will improve the quality of the evaluation and increase the likelihood that the diagnosis is correct.
Treatment
If you or your child suffers from ADHD receiving a diagnosis can be a source of relief. It can help you realize that it's not a lack of effort or insanity hindering your success and it gives you steps to take to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults with ADHD are often also suffering from other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as chronic headaches or sleep disorders can trigger symptoms that appear like ADHD.
A mental health specialist or health care professional will examine the person and their family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will look over the person's history going back to childhood, inquire about the person's education and how their family members interact with one other. They will also use standard rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also take psychological tests that test working memory, executive functioning, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning skills.
Diet and exercise can lessen symptoms for a lot of people with ADHD. They should stay away from alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also eat healthy food and make sure to schedule meals and keep healthy snacks on hand to ensure they don't miss meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or other professionals you trust for recommendations. A teacher is a good example. You can also contact a local university-based hospital or medical school to get an inventory of specialists who are qualified or call your insurance provider to obtain the list of specialists who are licensed to evaluate adults. It is important to locate a specialist who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has expertise in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of ADHD medication can help those with the disorder manage their symptoms, as well as improve their performance at school, work at home, and in social settings. However, stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can cause several adverse effects, including trouble sleeping, changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be combined with certain other drugs, including those for depression and high blood pressure and heart issues. Before beginning treatment doctors recommend that adolescents and children undergo a full physical examination that includes eye and hearing tests. Health care providers should talk with patients about the advantages and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask questions about family history, lifestyle and medical history.
To make a diagnosis, a clinician must examine the person closely to see whether the symptoms are persistent and significantly impact the person's performance in a variety of settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria to make a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD.
The clinician will review the symptoms to determine their severity and rule out other disorders that could trigger them. For instance, those with a learning impairment often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and someone with an anxiety disorder might be misdiagnosed as having ADHD. The clinician will also consider whether the person has a medical condition, such as thyroid disorders, which might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest a variety of tests, like cognitive testing or brain imaging to determine how symptoms are impacting the patient. The doctor may also recommend a full medical evaluation, along with laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
Talk to your doctor if you believe that you might be suffering from ADHD. They can refer you to experts who are trained in ADHD screening. They can also help you determine whether medication is needed by discussing how symptoms impact the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also explain alternative options for treatment, for example, behavioral therapy.
If your family physician isn't able to conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms online counselors who are specialists in telemedicine can be found. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed professionals who can assist in managing various mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat, and are private.
When selecting an online counseling specialist, it is important to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Ask them about their experiences and training with adults with ADHD. Make sure they are able to answer all your questions thoroughly. If they are reluctant to answer your questions, it may be an indicator that they are unqualified or uninterested in working with adults with ADHD.
It can be difficult to receive an ADHD diagnosis however it is an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking charge of your own life. It can help you understand that the difficulties you have in focusing and organization are not a sign of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also comforting to know that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, jobs and lives.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric issues like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how your ADHD and other conditions interact, and help you learn how to deal with them.