How to Diagnose ADHD
There are a variety of online ADHD quizzes and questionnaires which can help you determine whether you might be suffering from symptoms. However, it is important to visit your physician to be diagnosed.
A psychiatric evaluation for ADHD typically involves an interview with the patient, family members and teachers, completion of various questionnaires and scales and an examination of mental health, medical and school/work history.
Signs and symptoms
Inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity are the main signs of ADHD. In order for someone to be diagnosed with the disorder the symptoms must be significantly more than what is typical for their age and developmental level. They must also have significant problems at school, work, home and in their relationships. diagnosed with adhd must have displayed these symptoms for at minimum 12 months. Psychological assessments consist of an examination of symptoms, a full medical and family history, and the completion by the patient, caregivers, and teachers of scales and questions. To aid in determining a diagnosis, additional psychological, neuropsychological and tests for learning disabilities may be used.
It is essential that people with ADHD communicate with their healthcare provider about their symptoms. People who don't do this are in a disadvantage since their symptoms could be dismissed as normal. A good healthcare professional is willing to listen and understand but may also ask to bring the patient's records with them to their appointment. This could include school records or report cards. They can also ask a parent spouse or friend to complete a questionnaire about the person's ADHD experience.
People who suffer from ADHD are often judged for their behavior and difficulties. They may feel ashamed or feel embarrassed to admit they struggle with these symptoms however, it's important to keep in mind that ADHD isn't a sign of failure or weakness. It's a normal condition that affects millions and millions of children and adults across the globe.
For many people, a combination of factors can cause or exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD like stress and medical issues. It's important to recognize that symptoms can change over time, and it may take some time before you consult a medical professional to conduct an evaluation. It's a good idea bring your report cards from childhood, if you can, so that the doctor can examine your symptoms over a long period of time.
Diagnosis
If you or your child suspects they may have ADHD and you suspect it, a diagnosis can aid in gaining control over the symptoms that affect your work and personal life. Many people suffering from ADHD claim that their lives have improved once they get a diagnosis. They also can be granted accommodations at work or school.
A qualified health care provider must make the diagnosis. The assessment can be conducted by a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, or by primary care providers like the family physician or pediatrician. Most often, patients will ask their physician to refer them to a specialist with expertise in diagnosing ADHD.
The expert who is conducting the examination will review the patient's medical, mental health and family history from childhood until the present time. The evaluator may also interview teachers, relatives, and close friends to help in determining the diagnosis. It is crucial to be completely honest with the professional, to ensure that they get accurate information.
To be considered to have ADHD, a person's symptoms must significantly affect their ability to function in school and at home. The evaluator will also rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms as ADHD like sleep disorder or other types of learning disabilities.
Children are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD particularly the type of disorder as compared to adults. A doctor will test a child's symptoms for ADHD by talking with the teen as well as his or parents, and asking the teen to fill out a rating scale that has been developed specifically for this condition. The doctor will also observe the teenager's behavior. The doctor will also discuss any discipline actions taken against the teenager.
A person who wants to be diagnosed with ADHD will typically be asked to fill out an assessment scale that contains questions on hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. The examiner may also examine the history of the patient to determine how their symptoms have changed over time. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD an adolescent, or adult must demonstrate five or more of the symptoms listed in the diagnostic criteria found in the psychiatric manual, the DSM-5.
Treatments
A certified health professional can help determine whether someone has ADHD. An extensive evaluation involves interviews with the person, his or her teachers, parents and employer. It also includes a thorough medical background, psychiatric and behavioral assessments, and diagnostic testing. An experienced practitioner can determine the cause by analyzing a person's behavior over a prolonged period of time and how it interferes with his or her daily activities.
A wide range of treatment options are available for people with ADHD. Most people with ADHD receive a mix of behavioral therapy and medication. The most efficient treatment is stimulant medication, often combined with counseling and educational accommodations.
Most adults with ADHD can benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioral disorders, which helps people develop new strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their psychological wellbeing. Many people with ADHD employ alternative therapies like yoga and mediation. They may also seek coaching in order to improve their organization and better manage time.
If ADHD symptoms are severe, it can cause significant impairments in a variety of situations. The individual may lose their job due to inattentiveness, fail to meet the basic needs of life or experience problems in relationships due to impulsive behavior. The impairment must have been present in more than one setting prior to the age of 12.
When selecting a health care professional to conduct an assessment, ask for recommendations from your primary physician or family members who suffer from ADHD. You can also request referrals at local mental health clinics or hospitals that are affiliated with universities and specialize in adult ADHD evaluations. Ask the professional for information about his or her experience and training in working with adult ADHD patients. Professionals who aren't able or unwilling to share the information needed should be treated with suspicion. Contact your insurance company to determine which professionals are covered by your policy.
Support
People with ADHD are often lonely due to the numerous problems it can cause. Support groups are a way to share feelings and advice with people who understand the condition. Patients with this disorder may also find relief from stress and anxiety by meditative techniques such as yoga and meditation. These techniques can improve concentration and focus, and decrease the tendency to be impulsive.
ADHD symptoms can be noticed at any time. However, to be diagnosed with ADHD, the symptoms must have been present in childhood and have caused significant difficulties in many aspects of life, such as school at home, work or even at home. Additionally, the symptoms must be persistent and last longer than normal periods of time, and not just during times of stress or fatigue.
Evaluators will ask the person about their symptoms and how they impact their daily lives. They may also use questionnaires and inquire from family and acquaintances about their symptoms and perform a physical examination. They may also want to ensure that the person doesn't have a medical condition which can cause similar symptoms.
The healthcare professional doing the examination may request permission to send questionnaires to people who are close to the person such as relatives and colleagues. You can also ask for details about the person's family, education and work background. This will help a healthcare professional to get a clear picture of the individual's challenges, and can give them insight into possible causes of their ADHD symptoms.
Some professionals use a type of psychotherapy called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It is a method of changing negative thinking patterns, such a the tendency to see everything in black and white. It can aid in managing symptoms and may be performed in a group setting or on an individual basis.
For children suffering from ADD and ADHD, parents and teachers can assist by providing more structure in the home by limiting screen time, and encouraging regular exercise. They should encourage the child to speak out when they encounter problems in the classroom or at school and refrain from blaming them for their struggles.