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 may have.
They will assess how your symptoms affect you in various situations, including at school, home and social situations. They will also determine how long you've been experiencing these symptoms for.
Symptoms
If you suspect your child might have ADHD Talk to their doctor. Your child's teacher and you can fill out a questionnaire to check for signs. They can also ask them to take some tests. They can also conduct physical exams, including eye and hearing tests. They can also make use of FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a non-invasive scanner that analyzes beta- and theta-waves which are more prevalent in children suffering from ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the signs have been present since before the child reached the age of 12. It should cause significant impairment in two important situations, like at school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. In order to diagnose adults doctors follow psychiatric guidelines that include an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration as and the degree of impairment.
Children often struggle to tell the difference between normal and abnormal behavior, which is why parents might overlook some of the most common symptoms of ADHD. In addition, stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments can cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People who suffer from ADHD may also have issues with relationships and self-esteem which can cause depression. They often have trouble getting sufficient sleep, and an absence of sleep can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely to drink and use drugs, which can have serious consequences for their health. The disorder could cause financial issues or even bankruptcies due the insanity. It is essential for children to receive a correct diagnosis as it will aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a more pleasant and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member have been struggling to get organized or is having trouble staying focused in class, have difficulty following directions at work, have social issues, or other issues that could be related to ADHD, it is important to see a doctor to get an assessment. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist could assist in diagnosing ADHD. Some primary care professionals are also trained to diagnose ADHD.
The process of evaluation involves a long interview and a discussion of the symptoms. The health professional will examine the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to look for other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. Certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders, head injuries and certain drugs can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health conditions, such as mood disorders and anxiety, are also a possibility with ADHD and create problems.
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 doctor will also inquire about the person’s home and school life, including the frequency they skip classes or do not finish their homework. The clinician might also talk to other people in the patient's life, such as teachers and coaches, and may request that the person bring journals.
The person being evaluated must be willing to discuss their feelings freely with the examiner and not keep back information in fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will improve the accuracy of the evaluation and increase the chances that a diagnosis will be exact.
Treatment
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a great relief. It can help you realize that it's not laziness or a lack of intelligence that is preventing your success, and also provides ways to deal with your symptoms. The diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD frequently suffer from other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. Other conditions like sleep disorders or chronic headaches can trigger symptoms that appear similar to ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient and their family. They will inquire about the person's childhood as well as their education and how the family interacts. They will also utilize ADHD symptoms checklists and standard rating scales. They will also take psychological tests to assess get more info executive functioning, working memory spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Diet and exercise can reduce symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should avoid alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. They should also eat healthy food and plan their meal times and keep healthful snacks in their fridge so that they don't have to skip meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your personal doctor or therapist, or from other reputable professionals, such as teachers. You can also contact an institution affiliated with a university or medical school to get a list of qualified specialists or call your insurance provider to get the list of specialists who are certified to evaluate adults. It is important to locate a specialist who is board-certified in psychology or psychiatry and has expertise in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of ADHD medications can help those with the disorder manage their symptoms, and also improve their performance at school, work as well as in social settings. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can cause several adverse effects, including difficulty sleeping, appetite changes, and weight loss. They should not be combined together with other medications, such as those used to treat depression, high blood-pressure and heart-related conditions. Health professionals recommend that adolescents and children undergo a complete physical exam, including eye and hearing tests, before beginning medication. Patients should be informed of the risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their health care providers. They should also ask questions about family history, lifestyle, and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
To make a diagnosis, a clinician must closely examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent and significantly impact the person's performance in a variety of settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The physician will look over the symptoms to determine their severity and to rule out other disorders that might cause them. People suffering from learning disorders typically exhibit symptoms resembling those of ADHD. A person with anxiety disorder could be misdiagnosed. The doctor will also look at whether the person has any medical issues such as thyroid issues which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician might suggest a battery of tests, including cognitive testing or brain imaging to determine how the symptoms are affecting the individual. The doctor may also recommend an entire medical examination, as well as lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect ADHD If you suspect that you have ADHD, consult your family doctor. They can recommend specialists who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also discuss how symptoms affect your or your child's daily routine and help you determine whether medication is needed. They can also explain other options for treatment like behavioral therapy.
If your family doctor cannot conduct an exhaustive evaluation of your symptoms, you can find online specialists in telemedicine. Amwell for instance, connects patients to licensed professionals who can treat a range of mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through audio or video chat and are completely confidential.
When choosing an online counselor it is crucial to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Ask about their training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD and make sure they are able to answer your questions in depth. If they refuse to answer your questions, it could be a sign that they're not competent or able to work as a professional with adults with ADHD.
Getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge, but it's a vital step towards managing your symptoms and gaining control over your life. It can help you realize that your issues with organization and focus aren't the result of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also a relief to be aware that you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, careers and lifestyles.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can guide you on how to manage ADHD and other disorders.