Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis for ADHD is often the first step towards managing symptoms that affect daily life. Many people are hesitant to seek out a diagnosis, but doing so can be a relief.
An ADHD assessment typically begins with a clinical interview. Experts also utilize checklists that are standard and may also conduct screening tests for coexisting conditions such as 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 can be caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Adults suffering from ADHD have difficulty with organizing tasks, paying attention at work or school and retaining important dates. They are susceptible to impulsive behaviors such as disrupting others, or ignoring rules. They may also have trouble working on projects, sticking to their schedules or paying their bills.
When seeking a diagnosis, it is important to find a clinician trained in ADHD. Look for local chapters of mental health organizations, local support group, or seek the recommendation of a reliable source. It's recommended to inquire with your insurance company to determine whether they have providers in their network that specialize in ADHD.
A thorough psychiatric assessment will include a detailed description of symptoms of the patient, a review of personal and family histories including past medical, psychiatric and educational problems, testing for neuropsychological or psychoeducational tests and a physical exam. In addition, the clinician will talk to important others like spouses or partners to find out how ADHD symptoms affect their lives. Many adults suffering from ADHD have a poor memory of their childhood. Hence, it is beneficial to have parents or other relatives complete questionnaires detailing the child's symptoms.
Adults with ADHD can have a hard to admit that their issues result from their attention deficit disorder. They may feel angry and embarrassed about their inability to stay focused and organized at home as well as at the office. They may also believe that their problems are due to their own faults or flaws in their character. Getting a diagnosis of ADHD can bring relief and hope for the future, and help them understand that their problems aren't their fault.
Diagnosis
There's no single physical or medical test to determine ADHD (previously known as ADD) however a qualified mental health care professional will gather information on your child's or adult's symptoms from numerous sources. These include ADHD symptom checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales, a detailed history of past and present functioning and information from people who know the person well.
A thorough assessment could include a psychological examination, such as a personality inventory or neuropsychological test. Additionally, a health care provider may evaluate the person's medical history, including any current or past injuries, illnesses, and usage of medication, including those that stabilize moods, such as steroids.
Other conditions and disorders may mimic ADHD symptoms. This includes learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and other medical issues such as sleep apnea, thyroid issues and head injuries. A thorough psychiatric evaluation will help determine the cause and determine the most effective treatment.
A person's symptoms must cause significant impairment in two or more significant settings, such as at home and at school, in order to qualify for ADHD diagnosis. This is especially relevant for young people and children. If they are not treated, these people may struggle to be successful at school, and struggle to keep their jobs, and struggle to maintain relationships and friendships.
It is crucial to seek a diagnosis from a health professional who specializes in working with adolescents and children. A majority of primary care physicians and mental health professionals routinely diagnose ADHD however, you must look for a specialist who will conduct a thorough assessment. In the course of the interview, the doctor will inquire about your child's and your own family and personal history as well as review the criteria for diagnosing ADHD defined by the American Psychiatric Association in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition.
Treatment
Many psychiatric disorders mimic ADHD in adults and children and a thorough psycho-psychiatric examination is required to rule out other conditions. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders as well as learning disabilities, head injuries, thyroid conditions and use of drugs. These alternate explanations could have a significant impact on the quality of life.
A thorough mental health assessment usually involves an interview with the patient, as well as checklists or questionnaires that are completed by other people in their lives. This may include parents, spouses, siblings and teachers for children; as well as coworkers, friends and therapists for adults. Personal insight often uncovers information that can't be culled from checklists or questions, and it also helps the doctor understand how an individual's ADHD symptoms could have affected his or her relationships with other people.
In addition to reviewing symptoms, a psychologist or psychiatrist will also review a patient's medical history. A physical exam is usually conducted as well, which may include 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 opt to take part in a clinical study to determine if the new medication they are taking can help their symptoms. Participants must be aware that the main goal of a clinical study is to gain new knowledge and not to treat a specific condition.
Based on the results, the doctor could prescribe psychotherapy, medication, or other interventions. In certain instances, an integrated treatment may be the most effective. Medication is generally safe for both adults and children and can help alleviate some symptoms. Other treatments that are effective include behavior therapy, lifestyle changes and parenting strategies.
Medication
For certain people, medication can reduce symptoms of ADHD and improve their ability to function. It can be a challenge to determine the appropriate dose and kind of medication that works best, and it may take a while to adjust to any side effects. It is crucial to speak with your physician if you feel sleepy or drowsy after taking certain medications.
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 improve attention and impulsivity however they are not as effective as stimulants. They can prescribe mood stabilizers or antidepressants for people with depression, as well as other disorders that might be present in conjunction with ADHD.
Other therapies that can benefit people suffering from ADHD include psychotherapy, family therapy and educational or training programs for adults and children. These interventions can help people learn strategies and skills to cope with the symptoms and improve their performance at school and at home.
A mental or medical professional may be able to identify ADHD in a child by looking over the child's school records and discussing the child's behavior with caregivers and teachers. They will probably interview the child, conduct psychological testing, and screen for learning disabilities and other conditions that have similar symptoms.
To be able for a child to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to show at least six of the nine symptoms outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV TR) and these symptoms must significantly impair functioning at home as well as in the classroom. Additionally, they must not be explained better by another condition.
Counseling
If you require medication management or therapy for ADHD look for a certified professional with experience in treating adhd diagnoses the disorder. Your primary physician can offer a recommendation or guide you to specialists in your area. Certain specialists who specialize in ADHD also offer online telemedicine, which makes appointments easy and convenient. Many insurance companies let you make these appointments using their system.
Doctors and ADHD specialists can diagnose ADHD in children by discussing the symptoms with parents and teachers in-depth and observing them in various settings, interviewing the family members and conducting a learning disability evaluation. They also review the school documents and questionnaires completed by caregivers and teachers. The adult or adolescent must to exhibit at least five of the following symptoms to be diagnosed:
A thorough medical history is essential in determining ADHD. Because adults often have poor or hazy memories of childhood, doctors might seek information from independent sources, such as spouses or other family members. They should also search for other possible causes, such as brain injury, developmental disorder or other health issues which could be responsible for the ADHD-like symptoms.
During the initial consultation, the professional should assess the way in which the person deals with the symptoms of ADHD and evaluate the impact of these symptoms on their daily lives. They must also discuss any previous ADHD assessments or treatments. It's also helpful to recognize other conditions that have similar symptoms to ADHD such as mood disorders and anxiety. In addition to the evaluation of an individual and their mental health condition, a professional must also be able to listen to the person in a respectful manner and without judgment. This is particularly important when there is an history of depression or drug abuse.