ADHD Diagnosis
Consult a specialist if you suspect that you may have ADHD. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they can have on your life. They will also go over your medical background.
They will determine how your symptoms impact you in various environments, such as at school, home and social situations. They will also consider how long you have had these symptoms.
Symptoms
Talk to your child's doctor if you suspect that they may be suffering from ADHD. They can check for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to complete an assessment form and ask them to do certain tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, such as eye and hearing tests. They can also utilize the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a non-invasive scan that measures beta and theta brain waves which are typically more prominent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must have been present before the child reached the age of 12. It must cause significant impairment in two primary environments, like work and school. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To diagnose adults, doctors use mental health guidelines that provide an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration, as well as the level of impairment.
Parents may miss some of the more typical ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behaviors. Stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments may trigger similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD can also have problems with relationships and self-esteem which can lead to depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol or use drugs, which are detrimental to their health. The disorder can lead to financial problems or even bankruptcies due to the impulsiveness. It is essential for children to receive a correct diagnosis to help them manage their ADHD symptoms and lead a healthier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
It is important to consult a doctor if you or someone in your family has difficulties with social interactions, has difficulty organizing their life, has trouble paying attention in school, struggles with following instructions at work or any other signs that may be due to ADHD. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist can help identify ADHD. Certain primary care providers are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The process of evaluation involves an extended interview and discussion of symptoms. The health professional will review the person's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to look for other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. For example certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease and head injuries, as well as certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health problems, such as mood disorders and anxiety can also be associated 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 doctor will also inquire about the person's home 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 ask the person to bring an account book.
The person being evaluated must be able and willing to openly talk about their thoughts with the assessor. They shouldn't be afraid to be judged or criticized. This can improve the accuracy of the evaluation and increase the chances that a diagnosis is accurate.
get an adhd diagnosis
If you or your child has ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a relief. It can help you realize that it's not a lack of effort or insanity that is preventing your success, and also provides ways to deal with your symptoms. But the diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD frequently have other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression. Other illnesses, such as chronic headaches or sleep disorder, could produce symptoms similar to ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough examination of the patient and their family. They will look over the person's past from birth to childhood, ask about the person's school experience and how family members interact with each and with each. They will also employ standardized rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to assess working memory, executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to spatial space), and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD find that exercise and diet can help reduce their symptoms. They should avoid alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. They should also maintain a healthy diet, set a schedule for meals and have healthy snacks available so that they don't have to miss meals.
You can locate an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your personal doctor or therapist or other reputable professionals, such as an educator. You can also contact your insurance company to find out if they are licensed to evaluate adults, or visit a local medical institution or hospital. It is crucial to find a doctor who has expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychiatry or psychology.
Medication
The use of medications for ADHD can help people suffering from the disorder control their symptoms and improve their functioning at home, school or at work. They can also help improve their performance in social settings. However, stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can cause various side effects, such as trouble sleeping, changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be used with certain other medications, such as those used to treat depression, high blood-pressure and heart-related conditions. Health professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo a complete physical exam including hearing and eye tests prior to beginning treatment. Health care professionals should discuss with patients about the benefits and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about family history as well as lifestyle habits and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
The doctor must closely examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent and if they impact the patient's ability to function in more than one environment. The criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is established by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The clinician will review the symptoms to determine the severity and also to rule out any other conditions that could cause them. For instance, those with a learning impairment often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and a person suffering from an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The doctor will also take into consideration whether the patient has a medical condition, such as thyroid disorders, which could be akin to symptoms of ADHD.
The physician may suggest a variety of tests, such as brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how the symptoms affect the person. The doctor may also recommend an entire medical examination, along with laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect that you may have ADHD If you suspect that you have ADHD, consult your family physician. They can recommend professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also assist you in determining whether medication is needed by discussing how symptoms affect the daily life of your child or yourself. They can also provide alternatives to treatment like behavior therapy.
If your family physician cannot conduct an exhaustive analysis of your symptoms, you can find online counselors who specialize in telemedicine. Amwell for instance connects patients with licensed professionals who can treat a range of mental health issues including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat, and are confidential.
When selecting an online counseling specialist it is crucial to feel secure and confident with them. Find out about their education and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD and ensure that they are able to answer your questions in detail. If they are unable to answer your questions, it could be a sign they're not competent or able to be a professional working with adults with ADHD.
It can be a challenge to get an ADHD diagnosis but it's a crucial step in managing your symptoms and taking control of your life. It will help you realize that your struggles in focusing and organization aren't due to lazyness. It's also a relief to be aware that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, careers and lifestyles.
It is normal for people with ADHD to have other psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how your ADHD and other conditions interact and can help you learn to manage them.