Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis for ADHD is usually the first step in managing symptoms that affect everyday life. Many people are reluctant about getting an assessment. However, it can be an uplifting experience.
A clinical interview is usually the first step in an ADHD assessment. Experts also use standardized checklists and may conduct screening tests for coexisting disorders like mood disorders or learning disabilities.
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 is often caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Adults who suffer from ADHD are unable to organize tasks, paying attention at school or work and remembering important dates. They are more prone to impulsive behavior, such as cutting lines and interrupting others, or not following rules. They may also have trouble making appointments, completing tasks or paying bills.
When seeking a diagnosis, it is essential to locate a doctor who is trained in ADHD. Look for local chapters of mental health organizations, a local support group, or ask for the recommendation of a reliable source. It's also a good idea to inquire with your insurance provider to see if there are providers in network that specialize in ADHD.
A comprehensive psychiatric assessment will include a detailed patient description of their symptoms as well as a review of the family and personal history, including any past mental health, medical and educational issues and completion of neuropsychological or psychoeducational tests as well as a physical examination. The doctor will also talk to others who are close to the patient, like their spouses or partners, to find out how ADHD symptoms affect their lives. Many adults suffering from ADHD have a poor memory of their childhood. Therefore, it is beneficial to ask parents or other family members complete questionnaires detailing the child's symptoms.
Adults suffering from ADHD can have a hard to admit their problems are due to their attention deficit disorder. They may feel angry, embarrassed and ashamed about their inability to stay organized and focused both at home and in the office. They may also believe that their issues are due to their own shortcomings or character flaws. Finding a diagnosis of ADHD can bring relief and hope for the future and help them realize that their difficulties are not their fault.
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There isn't a single physical or medical test to determine ADHD (previously known as ADD). However, a qualified mental healthcare professional will collect information from many sources regarding your child's or adult's symptoms. These include ADHD symptom checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior, a detailed history of the person's past and present behavior and information from those who know the person well.
A thorough evaluation may also include a psychological test, such as an inventory of personality or neuropsychological tests. A health care provider will also evaluate the medical background of the patient, including past or current injuries, illnesses, as well as medications, like mood-stabilizing drugs such as steroids.
It's important to note that other disorders and conditions may mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include learning disabilities, anxiety disorders, mood disorders and medical conditions like sleep apnea, thyroid issues and head injuries. A thorough evaluation of psychiatric disorders will help identify the root cause and determine effective treatments.
An important consideration for diagnosing ADHD is whether the individual's symptoms cause significant impairment in at least two primary settings, including school and home. This is especially true for young children and adolescents. They may have a difficult time to get through school, struggle to maintain their jobs, and may have difficulty maintaining relationships and friendships with no treatment.
It is essential to get an evaluation from a health professional who specializes in working with adolescents and children. Many primary care doctors and mental health professionals regularly diagnose ADHD however, you should choose a specialist who will do a thorough evaluation. In the course of the interview, the doctor will inquire about your child's as well as your own personal and family history, and will also examine the criteria for diagnosing ADHD set by the American Psychiatric Association in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition.
Treatment
There are many psychiatric conditions that can mimic ADHD in adults as well as children. A thorough psychiatric evaluation is necessary to exclude any other medical conditions. These include mood disorders and anxiety disorders. They also include learning disabilities, head trauma, thyroid conditions and use of drugs. It is crucial to consider these alternative explanations for symptoms, because they can impact the quality of life.
A comprehensive mental health assessment includes an interview with the person being evaluated, as well as checklists and questionnaires that are completed by people who are in their lives. This can include parents and spouses for children, as well siblings, friends, and coworkers for adults. Personal insight often uncovers facts that cannot be gleaned from checklists or questions and also aids the therapist in understanding the ways in which a person's ADHD symptoms may have affected his or her relationships with others.
The psychologist or psychiatrist will review the patient's medical records in addition to their symptoms. A physical examination, which includes audio and vision tests, is also carried out. An electroencephalograph or EEG scan, which measures brain waves and can help identify the presence of ADHD, is available in some offices.
Some patients choose to participate in a clinical trial to determine if the new medication can help improve their symptoms. Participants must be aware that the main purpose of a clinical trial is to increase knowledge, not treat a particular condition.
Depending on the results of the assessment, the doctor may suggest treatment options that could include psychotherapy, medications or other interventions. In some cases an integrated treatment may be the most efficient. Medication is generally safe for both adults and children, and can relieve certain symptoms. Other methods that can be successful include behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes and parenting strategies.
Medication
Certain people can increase their ability function by taking medication to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. It can be difficult to determine the appropriate dose and kind of medication that performs best, and it could take a while to adjust to any side effects. It is crucial to speak to your doctor if you feel tired or sleepy after taking certain medications.
Psychiatrists can prescribe stimulants which increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters within the brain, which reduces the symptoms of ADHD. They may also prescribe non-stimulant medications, which can increase impulsivity and attention, however they are not as effective as stimulants. They can also prescribe antidepressants or mood stabilizers for those suffering from depression, as well as other disorders that might be present with ADHD.
Psychotherapy, family therapy, and training or educational programs for children and adults are other treatments that can aid those suffering from ADHD. These programs can help individuals learn skills and strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at home and at school.
A mental or medical professional may be able to determine ADHD in a young child by reviewing the school records of the child and discussing his behavior with teachers and caregivers. They may interview the child, carry out psychological tests, and screen to see if there are any learning disabilities or other conditions with similar symptoms.
In order 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 hinder functioning at home as well as in the classroom. They should also not be explained by any other medical condition.
Counseling
If you require treatment or medication treatment for ADHD it is crucial to find a licensed professional with experience in treating the disorder. Your primary physician can give you a recommendation or refer you to specialists in the area. Certain specialists who specialize in ADHD offer telemedicine online to make appointments simpler and more convenient. Many insurance companies allow you make these appointments using their system.
For children doctors and specialists with ADHD can identify the disorder by discussing symptoms with parents and teachers as well as observing the child adolescent in several environments, interviewing family members and conducting an assessment for learning disabilities. They also examine school documents and questionnaires completed by teachers and caregivers. The adolescent or adult needs to show at least five of the following symptoms to be diagnosed:
A complete medical history is important in order to diagnose ADHD. Because adults have often poor or spotty memories of childhood, clinicians may seek out information from other sources such as spouses or other family members. They should also evaluate for other possible causes of symptoms resembling ADHD, like neurological disorders, brain injuries or other health issues.
During the initial consultation the doctor should determine how the person copes with the symptoms of ADHD and evaluate the impact of those symptoms on their daily lives. They should also discuss the history of any prior ADHD assessments and treatments. It's also helpful to identify other conditions that have similar symptoms with ADHD such as anxiety and mood disorders. In addition to conducting an assessment of an person, a mental health professional should also listen to the person with openness and without judgment. This is particularly important if the patient has a history of depression or substance abuse.