10 Quick Tips About Diagnosis Of ADHD

Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms cause serious issues at school, work or at home. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) is used by health care providers to diagnose mental disorders.
A full assessment includes ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health care professionals ask about the family's history, and examine old school records.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can impact a person's daily life regardless of whether at school, home or work. They can cause disruption to relationships and careers, leading to serious problems with finances or a driver's license, and can even cause emotional distress for the person. It's normal for people to have difficulty concentrating or staying organized from time time however, if it becomes a chronic problem and interferes with everyday functioning, a medical provider may be able to diagnose ADHD.
A health professional will need to evaluate the person in two different situations, like at home and in school, as well as in social and workplace situations. The health care professional has to monitor the patient for at least six month and determine whether the symptoms are impacting their ability to perform. The symptoms must also have begun before the age 12 years. Children who meet diagnostic criteria for hyperactivity/impulsivity or inattentive type of ADHD usually are fidgety, talkative and have excess energy that keeps them from sitting still. They have difficulty waiting for their turn, and frequently interrupt or intrude on others.
Children with inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions, staying on task or sitting still. They tend to be distracted or snoozing. They are more likely to be ignored, and miss out on opportunities to learn, particularly in elementary schools which could set them for failure later in their lives.
The hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD is most common in children and involves the presence of at least six symptoms that include extreme restlessness, trouble with paying attention, constant movement or "on the go" behavior, excess energy and talkativeness. They have difficulty sitting or waiting for their turn, blurt out answers before they are complete, and have trouble controlling their emotions.
It's an exhilarating experience to receive the diagnosis of ADHD, but it is not always easy. It's okay to feel embarrassed. But honesty is the best approach. A diagnosis may be the first time that someone has realized their struggles are ascribed to. Understanding adults diagnosed with adhd can change the way they see themselves, which may result in positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms manifest at different times in children and adults. For kids, they typically begin in the middle of elementary school, however for adults it's a little later. The symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe. They can also be a combination of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity or more focused on one or the other. In some cases, the disorder is not properly diagnosed. It could be autism or a mood disorder like anxiety or depression.
Consult your doctor if your child or teenager shows indications of ADHD. They will do an examination of the body that includes hearing and vision to make sure there isn't something other than ADHD. You and your child will be asked to complete a list of symptoms. They will want to know how the symptoms have affected their home and school life. They'll also want to learn about any previous issues they've had.
For adults, a medical professional who's qualified to diagnose ADHD will conduct clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or checklists of symptoms to determine if they meet the requirements for diagnosis. They might also do psychological tests to gauge your cognitive abilities as well as learn how you think and process information. They may also perform an examination of your brain using the Neuropsychiatric EEG Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is FDA-approved. (NEBA) which evaluates the activity of specific parts of your brain that control the ability to focus and impulsivity.
They will also look at your medical records to see if there are any other mental disorders or injuries, such as thyroid or head trauma that could cause similar symptoms. They might refer you for a thorough evaluation to a psychiatrist or psychologist.
You must show six or more symptoms which began in childhood or before the age of 12. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum 6 months and cause significant problems with your daily functioning. Adults need to meet a lower threshold for diagnosis, however the criteria are the same: You must be suffering from at least five symptoms that interfere with your social, work and home life.
Treatment
Treatment aims to ease symptoms and restore functioning at work, home and school. There are a variety of treatment options, including treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Some people have success through lifestyle changes, such as using planners, notebooks and arranging tasks ahead of time. Other people may benefit from specific learning disabilities treatments, such as metacognitive training that helps them develop their organizational skills and problem-solving abilities as well as cognitive behavioral therapy to correct the distortions in thinking that can lead to negative moods and low self-esteem.
Professionals with specialized training in health care can provide the most effective treatment plan based on the patient's particular situation. They will look at the symptoms of the patient, and when they are an adult, also their childhood and school experiences. They will use clinical interviews, behavior ratings scales and symptom checklists to determine whether the person meets requirements for diagnosing ADHD. They may also inquire about the family history of mental illness and physical ailments. They will ask the person, their parents and teachers about their moods, behaviors and attitudes and how they've changed over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the presence of more than six symptoms that begin before age 12 and create difficulties in two or more settings (home school, at home and social situations). The symptoms have to be present for at minimum six months. Additionally, the symptoms must be significantly more troublesome than what is expected for a person who is that old.
A medical checkup is usually performed to make sure that the person isn't suffering from any other health problems. Doctors will look over the patient's medical and psychiatric history and examine their symptoms. They may also suggest an eye or hearing test. Certain people suffering from ADHD have a genetic predisposition to develop the disorder. Someone who has a sibling or parent with ADHD has an 85% chance of develop the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by anxiety or mood disorder. These conditions can be more difficult to treat than ADHD by itself.
Prevention
Many things, such as certain medical conditions and learning disabilities, can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. It is therefore important to consult a health care provider or a mental health professional to conduct an evaluation prior to determining the diagnosis. This person will ask your child about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. They can use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child suffers from ADHD. They could also perform an examination and test for problems with vision or hearing. They may also order a brain scan, also known as an EEG, which examines beta and theta waves to check for changes in your child's brain function.
To be considered a child with ADHD, they must have a number of symptoms that are significantly more than the norm for their age or development level. Hyperactivity, inattention, and/or an impulsive behavior can create serious problems at home, school or at work. The symptoms must also affect your child's ability to interact with other children. If your child is suffering from moderate or severe ADHD they will require medication in order to lead a normal life.
Children suffering from ADHD are often unable to follow instructions and remain on task which can result in low self-esteem and poor grades. They may also have difficulty with social interactions because they have trouble reading social cues and often interrupt others or come off as aggressive or abrasive. They are at risk for anxiety, depression and alcohol abuse.
Mild ADHD is characterized by symptoms that are apparent but do not affect everyday life. It can make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. People with moderate to severe ADHD will have more symptoms, and they are more likely than other people to have issues at work, such as difficulties keeping a job or getting along with colleagues.
Patients who do not receive treatment can have serious consequences, including health issues, financial problems and legal issues. There are a variety of treatments for ADHD that include psychosocial and behavioral therapy including diet and nutrition, exercise, medication for sleep, and other treatments. NIMH has more information on these options and how to speak with your family about these options.