Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Adults are typically not diagnosed until they are experiencing significant issues at home, at work or at school. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) is used by health care professionals to diagnose mental disorders.
A full evaluation includes ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales. Health care professionals ask about the family's history, and look at the school records from the past.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can impact the daily routine of a person, whether it is at school, home or at work. They can cause disruption to relationships and career, lead to serious financial problems or a driver's license and can even cause emotional distress for the person. It's normal for everyone to have trouble concentrating or staying organized from time to the time but if it develops into an ongoing issue that hinders everyday functioning, a health care provider may be able to diagnose ADHD.
To be able to diagnose someone with ADHD the healthcare professional must examine the patient in at least two different environments, such as the workplace, school, and social settings. The health care professional has to be observing the person for at least six month and determine whether the symptoms are impacting their ability to perform. The symptoms must also have started before the age of 12 years old. 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 are often not able to wait for their turn and often interrupt or disturb others.
Children with the inattentive kind of ADHD are unable to sit or wait in silence and are unable to follow instructions or staying on track. They're usually daydreaming, forgetful or easily distracted by their surroundings. They are more likely to be ignored and miss out on opportunities to learn, particularly in the elementary school setting which could prepare 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 waiting their turn or staying still. They also have trouble controlling their emotions.
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD can be a relief however, it's not always easy to accept. It's fine to be embarrassed. But honesty is the best policy. A diagnosis may be the first time that someone has realized their struggles have a label. This understanding can alter the way they see themselves, which may cascade into positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms can manifest at different time points in adults and children. For children, symptoms typically begin in elementary school. For adults, it is somewhat later. The symptoms may be mild, moderate or even severe. They can also be a combination of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity or more focused on one or the other. In some cases the condition is not properly diagnosed. It could be related to autism or a mood disorders like depression or anxiety.
If your child or teen is showing indications of ADHD, the first step is to consult your doctor. diagnosed with adhd iampsychiatry.com will perform an examination that includes vision and audio to ensure that there is nothing else wrong. You and your child will be asked to fill out the list of symptoms. They will also ask what the effects of their symptoms are on their school and personal life. They'll also want hear about any past problems they've faced.
For adults, a medical professional who's qualified to diagnose ADHD will use the process of conducting clinical interviews, as well as behavior rating scales or symptom checklists to determine whether they meet the requirements for diagnosis. They might also do psychological tests to assess your cognitive abilities as well as learn how you think and process information. They could also conduct an examination of your brain using the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid, which is FDA-approved (NEBA) which evaluates the activity of specific parts of your brain that regulate attention and the ability to be impulsive.
In addition, they will examine your medical history to see whether you've experienced any other mental health problems or injuries like head trauma or thyroid issues that can cause similar symptoms. They might refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a thorough examination.
To get a diagnosis of ADHD you must exhibit a minimum of six or more signs that started in childhood, or before age 12. The symptoms must be present for at least 6 months and be causing significant difficulties in your daily life. Adults need to be able to meet a lower threshold in order to be diagnosed, however the same requirements apply: You must have at least five or more symptoms and these should affect your home, work and social life.
Treatment
Treatment aims to improve symptoms and restore function at home, work and school. There are a range of treatment options, including treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Some people experience success by making lifestyle changes like using planners, notebooks and arranging tasks ahead of time. Others may benefit from specific learning disability treatments, such as metacognitive training to help them develop their organizational skills and problem-solving abilities, or cognitive behavioral therapy to deal with the distortions in thinking that can cause negative moods and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who are specially trained in diagnosing ADHD can recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for a person's situation. They will examine the person's symptoms and, if they are an adult, they will also consider their school and childhood experiences. They will conduct interviews with a psychologist, behavior rating scales and checklists of symptoms to determine if the person meets requirements for diagnosing ADHD. They can also look up a family history of mental health problems as well as physical illnesses. They will ask about the person's moods, behaviors and changes over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the presence of more than six symptoms that start before the age of 12 and can cause problems in two or more settings (home school, at home and social situations). The symptoms must have been present for at least 6 months. In addition, the symptoms must be significantly more difficult than expected for someone at that age.
There aren't any brain scans or blood tests to determine ADHD However, a medical checkup usually is performed to ensure that there's no other issue with the individual. Doctors will review the person's symptoms and medical and psychiatric history, and may suggest an eye examination or hearing test. Some people who suffer from ADHD have a genetic predisposition to develop the disorder. Someone who has a parent or sibling with ADHD has an 85% chance of develop the disorder. ADHD is often associated with a mood or anxiety disorder. These disorders are more difficult to treat than ADHD alone.
Prevention
Many things, such as medical conditions, as well as certain types of learning disabilities, can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. It is essential to talk to an expert in mental health or a health professional for an assessment prior to making a diagnosis. The professional will inquire with your child about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. They may also use scoring scales or a checklist to determine if your child suffers from ADHD. They can also conduct a physical examination and test for hearing or visual problems. They can also request an EEG brain scan, which analyzes beta and theta waves to check on changes in your child's brain function.
To be considered a child with ADHD, they must have several symptoms that are more prominent than the norm for their age or development level. The symptoms of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity have to cause serious problems at home, school or at work. The symptoms must also hinder your child's social interactions. If your child suffers from severe or moderate ADHD they will require medication to live a normal life.
Children suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to follow directions and remain focused and can result in low self-esteem and grades. They may also have difficulty with social interactions as they struggle to discern social cues and frequently interrupt others or appear violent or aggressive. They are at high risk for depression, anxiety and alcohol abuse.
Mild ADHD is defined by symptoms that are visible but do not interfere in daily life, which makes it difficult to maintain relationships or work. People who suffer from severe or moderate ADHD are more prone to symptoms and are more likely to have job-related problems, such as difficulty keeping an occupation, getting along with coworkers or maintaining relationships.
If they do not seek treatment could face serious consequences. These include financial problems and health issues, as well as legal issues. There are many treatments for ADHD. These include psychosocial interventions, nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement and even medications. NIMH offers more information on these options and how you can discuss these options with your family members.