How to Diagnose ADHD
The process of diagnosing ADHD requires a great deal of information. Your doctor will review your symptoms and history, and use standard ADHD rating scales. They'll also determine if something else is the cause of your child's or adult's problems like sleep apnea, thyroid problems depression, depression, or abuse.
To be diagnosed, ADHD symptoms must significantly impact family and school activities and persist for at least six months.
Signs and symptoms
Before diagnosing ADHD, a health care provider must examine the patient with care. They will ask questions about symptoms and review family medical, social, and history, and review current and previous mental health and medical issues. The doctor may also recommend tests to rule out anxiety, depression, or other conditions that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
A person suffering from ADHD is more likely than other people to be unable to concentrate for extended periods of time. This can hinder the schoolwork or other tasks. They tend to be distracted by other people, objects or activities that surround them. They are unable to follow instructions, remembering specifics and keeping deadlines. They are often easily annoyed by criticism or have unrealistic expectations for themselves, which can result in disappointments and failures.
The symptoms of ADHD vary by person and can be mild, moderate or severe. The mild symptoms aren't a hindrance to daily activities or relationships. Severe symptoms can cause serious problems at work and home. ADHD is an illness that can affect individuals throughout their lives. It is more prevalent in childhood, but some adults do not get diagnosed because they are able to cope with their symptoms.
The doctor will perform a thorough examination on children suffering from ADHD. This includes vision and hearing tests. The doctor may also interview the child parents, the child, and their teachers about their behavior and habits. They may also order an imaging study of the brain to rule out other possible causes, for example MRI or CT scan.
A psychiatric evaluation is typically conducted by a psychiatrist nurse practitioner, clinical social worker or psychologist. The evaluator will ask about the person's symptoms and how they affect the person's life and work, and take into consideration the family's history and education. The evaluator will also look into the person's mental health and medical history and talk with other family members and acquaintances to gather an accurate picture.
The evaluator will decide if the person has the predominantly inattentive presentation of ADHD, the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type or both. The inattentive presentation is more common among girls and affects all ages, while the hyperactive-impulsive type is more common in boys and younger children.
Triggers
It is a good idea when your child is constantly snoozing or has trouble staying focused on schoolwork, other activities at home, or appears easily distracted by his or her friends. ADHD is a brain-based condition, and children with it have trouble paying attention, controlling their behavior, and being organized. It affects children's lives in many ways, and can cause problems at home, school, and in relationships with classmates and family members.
Note down and observe your child's behavior prior to you visit the doctor. adults diagnosed with adhd or psychiatrist will look for a variety of signs and symptoms to determine if your child is suffering from ADD or ADHD. They will also take into consideration your child's age and developmental level. A diagnosis of ADD is given when the child is younger than 16 years old and has at least 6 signs of inattention (or 5 for teens older than) for at least 6 months, and these symptoms interfere with everyday functioning. The signs of ADHD include fumbling and talking, tapping, or any other constant movement and a failure to follow instructions chores, school or work-related tasks.
A professional will also ask how these behaviors have affected your child's daily routine. They will inquire if your child has difficulty with schoolwork or other activities. If they have trouble maintaining relationships or friendships, or are often late for appointments, they want to be aware. They will also take a look at the medical history of your child and any medications they are currently taking as some medications can trigger symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults is trickier because the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is designed to diagnose children. The most reliable method for diagnosing ADHD in adulthood is a clinical interview with a specialist in the disorder, who will take their time with the evaluation and not rush the process. In most cases, they'll employ computer programs and brain scans to examine the structure of your child's brain.
Identifying your triggers is one of the most important steps you can take to manage your ADHD. Once you know what triggers your symptoms you can take steps that will help you avoid these triggers. For instance, you could limit screen time, eat a balanced diet and plan regular sleep time.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, the first step is to obtain a diagnosis from a professional. Many medical professionals have special training for assessing ADHD in adults. When choosing a professional be sure to inquire about her education and experience with adult ADHD.
Your doctor will use Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), fifth edition, to determine an assessment. He or she will want to determine if you have several symptoms that are present over a period of time and interfere with your life at home, at work or socially. These include: inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, difficulty sitting still or waiting your turn, trouble organizing activities, making careless mistakes, problems with schoolwork or work, and difficulties forming close relationships.
The evaluation will also examine other conditions that might mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include mood disorders, learning disorders such as depression or anxiety thyroid issues as well as head injuries and other medical issues. Your doctor might also evaluate your family history to determine if you had ADHD as a child.
Since people who suffer from ADHD are often unable to form close relationships, it is important that your assessment includes information from family members. Other people who spend much time with you, such as teachers or scout and religious coaches, leaders and colleagues, can also offer valuable information. They can inform your doctor about how you interact with them and if there are particular issues you face in these relationships.
An assessment for ADHD typically involves an appointment with your doctor, and questionnaires that you fill out. Computer programs, like continuous test of performance or brain scans with SPECT, can be utilized to determine impulsivity and attention.
Because ADHD can be triggered by stress, you and your doctor will discuss your personal life to determine whether there are any serious issues in your relationships or at work. If you have a partner or spouse you might want to consider beginning therapy for couples as well. You and your doctor will have to collaborate to determine an approach that works best for you. This can include changes to your lifestyle, counseling and medication.
Treatment
Treatment for ADHD can help your child or you manage symptoms and lead a more productive lifestyle. There are a myriad of treatments available that include therapy and medication.
It is essential to work with a professional who is an ADHD specialist. They will provide you with an accurate diagnosis, develop an appropriate treatment plan, and teach you how to cope with your symptoms. They can also collaborate with your child's teachers to support their learning and behavioral needs in the school.
The majority of children and teens suffering from ADHD can be treated using a an ad-hoc combination of behavioral therapy and medication. The dosage and kind of medication can vary from one person to another. It can take some time to determine the dosage and a drug that is suitable for you or your children. Discuss with your doctor different medication options and request samples. This allows you to test out the different medications to see which ones are the most effective and have the fewest adverse consequences.
Adults suffering from untreated ADHD can have difficulties at work or with relationships. They may struggle to keep their job, interacting with coworkers, or completing financial obligations. They are often afflicted with anxiety and depression as well. A health care provider will evaluate the person's mental and emotional history as well as moods. The provider might suggest an assessment for mood disorders or other disorders that may cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
During the consultation for diagnosis the doctor will pay attention to your child's or your own story. They may ask questions about family and social life, how the symptoms affect your or their daily functioning and how they've changed over time. They may ask for information from relatives and teachers to gain a full picture. The doctor may recommend a thorough physical exam that includes blood and urine tests. The doctor might also recommend brain imaging.
Talk to your primary doctor If you think you or your child may have ADHD. They may refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist or any other mental health professional that specializes in treating ADHD. Make sure to check with your health insurance to determine if the specialists you're thinking of employing are covered by your insurance. If not, think about a mental health insurance plan like BetterHelp.