Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis for ADHD is often the first step towards managing the symptoms that hinder daily life. Many people are reluctant about seeking an assessment. However, it could be an uplifting experience.
A clinical interview is usually the first step in an ADHD assessment. Experts may also administer screening tests to determine if there are co-existing conditions such as 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 have difficulty with organizing tasks, paying attention at school or work, and remembering important dates. They are more prone to impulsive behavior such as disrupting others, or disregarding rules. They may also have difficulty working on projects, sticking to their schedules or paying their bills.
If you are seeking a diagnosis, it is important to find a doctor who is trained in ADHD. Request a referral from a trusted source such as an organization for mental health in your area or a support group. You can also check with your insurance company to see whether they have any providers who specialize in ADHD.
A thorough psychiatric examination will include a thorough description of symptoms of the patient, review of personal and family histories including any medical, psychiatric and educational issues, taking neuropsychological or psychoeducational tests, and a physical examination. The clinician will also speak with people who are close to the patient, for example their spouses or partners, to find out how ADHD affects their lives. Many people with ADHD suffer from poor memories of their childhood. Therefore, it is helpful to ask parents or other close relatives complete questionnaires detailing the child's symptoms.
Adults with ADHD may have a difficult time admitting their problems are due to their attention deficit disorder. They may be frustrated or embarrassed by their inability to remain focused and organized both at home and in the office. They may also believe that their troubles are caused by their own shortcomings or character flaws. Being diagnosed with ADHD can provide relief and optimism for the future and help them understand that their issues are not their own fault.
Diagnosis
There isn't a single physical or medical test to diagnose ADHD (previously known as ADD). However a trained mental health professional will gather information from a variety sources regarding your child's or adult's symptoms. These include ADHD symptom lists, standardized behavioral rating scales and a detailed history of the person's previous and current functioning.
A thorough examination could also include a psychological exam, 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, including mood-stabilizing drugs like steroids.
Other conditions and disorders can be a source of ADHD symptoms. This includes learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and other medical problems such as sleep apnea, thyroid issues and head injuries. A thorough evaluation of psychiatric disorders will help identify the cause and identify effective treatment options.
The most important aspect to consider when determining ADHD is whether the patient's symptoms result in significant impairments in at least two primary settings - such as school and home. This is particularly true for children and young adults. They might struggle to get through school, struggle to maintain their jobs, and are having trouble maintaining friendships and relationships without being treated with respect.
It is essential to seek a diagnosis by a medical professional who has worked with children and adolescents. Many primary care doctors and mental health professionals regularly diagnose ADHD however, you must look for an expert who is able to do a thorough evaluation. During the interview the doctor will ask you about your child's development and your family history. He or she will also review the criteria established by the American Psychiatric Association for diagnosing ADHD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition.
Treatment
There are a variety of psychiatric disorders which can cause ADHD in adults as well as children. A thorough psychiatric examination is essential to rule out any other illnesses. These include mood disorders and anxiety disorders. They also include learning disabilities, thyroid disorders, head trauma and use of prescription drugs. These alternative explanations can have a significant impact on quality of life.
A complete mental health evaluation includes an interview with the person being assessed, as well as checklists and questionnaires that are completed by other people in their lives. This could include spouses, parents and siblings, as well as teachers for children, co-workers as well as therapists, friends and coworkers for adults. Personal insights can provide insights that is not gained from checklists or questions. It also assists the clinician to comprehend how ADHD symptoms have affected the person's relationships with others.
The psychiatrist or psychologist will review the patient's medical records in addition to their symptoms. A physical exam is usually performed as well, including hearing and vision tests. 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 see if the new medication they're taking will help their symptoms. However, they should be aware that the main purpose of a clinical trial is to gain new scientific knowledge, not to treat a specific condition.
Based on the findings of the assessment The doctor will then suggest treatment options that could include psychotherapy, medications or other interventions. In some cases a combination treatment is the most efficient. Medication is generally safe for children and adults and can help alleviate certain symptoms. Other interventions can be effective with regard to behavior therapy, for example lifestyle modifications.
Medication
Certain people can enhance their ability function by taking medication to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. It can be a challenge to determine the appropriate dose and kind of medication that works most effectively, and it can take a while to adjust to any side effects. Some medications can cause a person to feel sleepy or drowsy It is therefore important to talk to a doctor about this.
Psychiatrists can prescribe stimulants which boost the levels of certain neurotransmitters within the brain to lessen the symptoms of ADHD. diagnosed with adhd as an adult can also prescribe nonstimulant medications that can improve focus, attention, and impulsivity but aren't as efficient as stimulants. They can prescribe mood stabilizers or antidepressants for people with depression, and other disorders that could be present along with ADHD.
Psychotherapy, family therapy, and educational or training programmes for children and adults are other therapies that can help those with ADHD. These interventions can help individuals learn skills and strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at home and at school.
A medical or mental health professional might be able to identify ADHD in a child by reviewing the child's school records and discussing his behavior with teachers and caregivers. They will probably interview the child, conduct psychological tests and look for signs of learning disabilities and other disorders that have similar symptoms.
To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis they must show at least six of the nine symptoms as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM-IV TR), and these symptoms must be significant enough to impair adaptive functioning in the classroom as well as at home. In addition, they should not be more easily explained by another condition.
Counseling
If you need medication management or therapy for ADHD, find a licensed professional who has experience treating the disorder. Your primary care doctor can give you recommendations or refer you to specialists in the area. Certain specialists who specialize in ADHD also offer online telemedicine making appointments simple and convenient. Many insurance companies allow you to schedule appointments via their system.
In children, doctors and specialists in ADHD can diagnose the disorder by discussing symptoms at length with teachers and parents as well as observing the child an adolescent in various environments including interviewing family members, and conducting an assessment for learning disabilities. They also look over the school records and fill out questionnaires by teachers and caregivers. To receive a diagnosis an adult or adolescent must present at least five of the following symptoms:
A thorough medical history is also essential to diagnose ADHD. Clinicians can inquire about childhood memories from other sources, such as spouses or family members, since adults tend to have a blurred or unclear memories of their childhood. They should also be able to identify other possible causes of symptoms similar to ADHD, such as developmental disorders, brain injuries or other health issues.
During the first meeting, the specialist will assess how the patient copes with ADHD symptoms and the impact that these symptoms have on their daily lives. They should also discuss any previous ADHD assessments or treatments. It is also beneficial to determine other conditions that have similar symptoms to ADHD like mood disorders and anxiety. A mental health professional should not just assess an individual, but also listen to them without judgment. This is particularly important if there is an history of depression or abuse of drugs.