10 Life Lessons We Can Learn From ADHD Diagnoses
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
A lot of people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. A major event, such as pregnancy or a breakup, triggers awareness of the problem. Getting a diagnosis is the first step towards managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting for a call and paying attention in school or in other settings. These issues can greatly affect their functioning at work, home, or school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must have been present for at least six months, and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental level. Additionally, they must be causing significant suffering and problems at home, school or work, and in relationships.
A qualified health care professional will conduct a clinical assessment to diagnose ADHD. This could include a physical exam and a look at other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The health care provider may also review the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. He will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children, the questions are usually specific to their age and parents may be interviewed too.
The physician will follow American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults as well as children. These guidelines are described in DSM-5 the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will examine the patient's current symptoms as well as previous behavior, focusing on how they impact their family, social and professional life. If it is possible the therapist may also examine the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, the provider will consider whether they have a co-occurring mental health issue, and will ask whether the person has a family history of ADHD. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone is suffering from ADHD If he or she suspects that someone has ADHD, they will give the person a complete clinical evaluation which includes reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily diary of their symptoms for some weeks. The doctor may also inquire about any other conditions they suffer from, and refer them to the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient is in compliance with any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or are interested in ADHD can conduct screenings and determine the severity of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner and psychiatrists are all certified to diagnose ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They may refer adults for a comprehensive evaluation.
A thorough medical exam that includes an evaluation of hearing and sight, is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. A specialist may suggest a brain scan called an EEG-Based Assessment Tool, or NEBA to determine the relative concentration of the beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scan can be used to screen for ADHD in a non-invasive, safe manner.
In an interview with the individual the examiner will review the individual's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, as well as the present symptoms and coping strategies. The doctor checks to see if the person meets the diagnostic criteria for either inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or combined ADHD presentations as defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
The doctor may ask teachers and others who spend a lot of time with children to fill out checklists or questionnaires. He or she might also request parents to fill out such forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, co-workers and other close friends. They may also want to interview someone who has been with the person since childhood.
During the diagnostic process, the mental health professional looks for signs that indicate whether the person is experiencing predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. The doctor will also determine the length of time the symptoms have been present, and whether they are causing difficulties at home, school and at work, or in other aspects of life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. He or she must also search for physical causes for example, thyroid problems or sleep disorders. Additionally, a thorough screening will also check the person's emotional, social and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging school staff to watch their child's behavior, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patience. They can also help teach methods of relaxation and calming like yoga or meditation. Many children with ADHD benefit from regular physical activity and a healthy diet, which can help increase their ability to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods high in sugar can aggravate symptoms. They should also get enough sleep.
ADHD symptoms can last through adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or with relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD, and the severity of it. The evaluation includes a mental history and physical examination and interviews with the person, his or parents or spouses, and others who are familiar with him or her. The provider may ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they affect them. He or she might also employ ratings scales and other tests to verify that the person is in compliance with the standardized criteria for ADHD. The person may also inquire about any medical conditions that could be similar to ADHD symptoms, such as seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If someone is diagnosed as having ADHD the medication is prescribed to manage symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD as well as in children as well as adults. These medications can cause side effects. It is recommended that you use these drugs under the supervision of a doctor and with prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications he or are taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants to create dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD must try different dosages and types of medication before they find one that works.
The following is a list with preventions.
In certain cases it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers from the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include diet and sleep habits as well as family structure and medications. A GP can help you find ways to manage these triggers, and then refer you for further assistance or to a dietitian who can suggest changes in your diet.
Children can also be helped by keeping their routines the same as well as limiting sugar and caffeine and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Beware of dietary supplements that do not have a scientific basis or could interfere with certain medications.
Adults who believe they have ADHD should consult a mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist to get an assessment. The doctor will take a thorough history, do physical examination and review medical records to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe the patient's behavior and use standardized ratings scales. He or she will also consider the duration and presence of core ADHD symptoms, and if they affect the person's life.
Often, a therapist will collaborate with the family member and patient to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other organizational strategies and educate the patient in metacognitive strategies, which involve the identification and modification of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods and perceptions about the lack of choices. adhd diagnoses may also prescribe specific medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also help by providing a secure and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and avoid stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to be social and build a healthy relationship with their child's partner.
School staff can provide valuable information regarding the learning and behavior of the student however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or make decisions about treatment. These decisions must be taken by the child's parents, health care provider, and teacher with cooperation of all three.