ADHD Diagnosis
Consult a specialist if suspect that you may be suffering from ADHD. The specialist will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also look over your medical background.
They will determine how your symptoms impact you in various settings, such as school, at home and social situations. They will also determine how long you've been experiencing these symptoms.
Symptoms
Talk to your child's doctor if you suspect that they may be suffering from ADHD. You and your child's teachers can fill out questionnaires to determine symptoms. They may also ask them to take some tests. They can also do physical examinations, such as eye and hearing tests. They can also use FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is a noninvasive scanner that measures theta- and beta-waves which are more prevalent in children suffering from ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD is a sign that the symptoms were present prior to the time the child reached the age of 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two primary environments, like school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines used by doctors to diagnose adults contain a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration, and the degree of impairment they cause.
Parents may not notice some of the more common ADHD symptoms because children have difficulty discerning between normal and abnormal behaviors. In addition, stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments may trigger similar symptoms as ADHD.
People with ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which may cause depression. Sleep problems can cause ADHD symptoms. They tend to drink more and use drugs, which can result in serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness that is associated with the disorder can cause financial problems or even bankruptcy. It's important for kids to receive a correct diagnosis, because it can assist them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a healthier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has struggled to stay organized or has trouble paying attention in class, have trouble adhering to instructions at work, have social issues, or other concerns that could be caused by ADHD it is essential to consult a doctor for an evaluation. A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help make a diagnosis. Certain primary care providers are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process involves a lengthy interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health professional will examine the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to identify other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. For instance, certain medical conditions, such as thyroid diseases or head injuries, as well as certain medications can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health problems such as mood disorders and anxiety 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. In addition to a thorough physical examination, the clinician will ask about the person's life at home and at school, focusing on how often the person misses classes or fails to complete homework. The clinician may want to discuss other people in the patient's life, such as teachers and coaches, and may request that the person bring journals.
The person being evaluated should be able to share their feelings openly with the examiner and not hold back information in fear that they will be accused of being criticized or judged. This will improve the quality of the evaluation and increase the probability that the diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a relief for your child or yourself. It can help you realize that it's not a lack of effort or a lack of intelligence hindering your success, and also provides ways to deal with your symptoms. The diagnosis must be followed up by treatment. Adults with ADHD typically have other mental health issues like depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as chronic headaches or sleep disorders can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
A mental health healthcare professional or health care provider will evaluate the patient and their family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will ask about the person's childhood and their schooling, as well as how their family interacts. They will also use ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests to assess working memory, executive function, visual and spatial abilities (related to space), and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD find that exercising and diet reduce the symptoms. They should stay away from the use of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They should also maintain a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks available to ensure they don't skip meals.
You can find diagnosis for adhd in adults an ADHD specialist by seeking recommendations from your physician or therapist or from other trusted professionals, such as an educator. You can also contact your insurance provider to find out if they are certified to assess adults or contact the nearest medical hospital or school. It's crucial to find a specialist with experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
The use of ADHD medications can help people who suffer from the disorder to manage their symptoms, and enhance their performance at work, school as well as in social settings. The stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger adverse effects, such as difficulties sleeping and eating, and weight loss. They should not be taken together with other medications, for example, those used to treat depression, high blood pressure, and heart conditions. Health professionals suggest that adolescents and children undergo an extensive physical exam, including eye and hearing tests, before beginning medication. Health professionals should speak with patients about the advantages and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask questions about family history, lifestyle and medical history.
In order to make a diagnosis, a clinician must carefully examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent and substantially affect the person's ability to function in multiple settings. 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 physician will assess the symptoms to determine the severity of the symptoms, and to rule out any other conditions that could be the cause. For instance, those with a learning impairment often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and a person with an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The physician will also examine whether the patient has any medical conditions such as thyroid issues which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest battery test, like a cognitive testing or brain imaging test to determine the severity of the symptoms. He might also suggest a complete medical evaluation and laboratory tests, including an entire blood count and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect you have ADHD, talk to your family physician. They can recommend professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also talk about how the symptoms impact your or your child's daily life and help you decide whether medication is needed. They can also provide alternative options for treatment, such as behavioral therapy.
If your family physician is unable conduct a detailed assessment of your symptoms, online counselors who are experts in telemedicine can be found. Amwell for instance, connects patients to licensed providers who can manage various mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video and audio chats and are private and secure.
When choosing a counselor online it is essential to feel at ease and trust with them. Ask them about their experiences and training for adults with ADHD. Be sure that they are able to answer all your questions with precision. If they refuse to answer your questions, it could be a sign that they're not qualified or unwilling to be a professional in dealing with adults suffering from ADHD.
Getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge but it's an essential step toward controlling your symptoms and gaining control of your life. It will help you realize that your struggles with focus and organization aren't the result of lazyness. It's also comforting to know you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lifestyles.
It is normal for people suffering from ADHD to suffer from other mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can help comprehend how your ADHD and other disorders interact and can help you learn to manage them.