20 Trailblazers Lead The Way In Diagnosis Of ADHD
Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms cause major issues at school, work or at home. Health care professionals adhere to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
A complete evaluation includes ADHD symptom lists and standardized behavior ratings scales. Health care professionals also ask about family history and go through old school records.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can impact the way a person lives their life, whether it is at home, school or work. They can cause issues in relationships and careers, financial problems and even a driver's permit. They can also lead to emotional stress. It's normal for everyone to struggle with concentration or staying organized from time to time but if it develops into an ongoing issue that hinders everyday functioning, a health care provider may be able to diagnose ADHD.
A health care professional will need to evaluate the person in two different settings, including at home and in school, or in workplace and social settings. The health professional must be observing the person for at least six month and determine whether the symptoms are affecting their ability to function. The symptoms should also be present prior to the age of 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 often are unable to wait their turn, and they interrupt or disturb others.
Children with inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions, staying on task or sat down. They are usually distracted by their thoughts, forgetful or easily distracted by their surroundings. They're more prone to being left out and miss opportunities to learn, especially in the early years of school, which could set them up for failure later on in life.
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 settling down. They also have difficulty controlling their emotions.
It's a relief to receive the diagnosis of ADHD, but it is not always an easy process. Some people may be embarrassed, but they need to be honest so that they can get the help they're entitled to. A diagnosis may be the first time people realize that their issues have a label. Having this understanding can change the way they view themselves, which could be a positive influence.
Diagnosis
When it is about ADHD symptoms are evident at different times for children and adults. In children, the symptoms usually begin in the middle of elementary school. For adults, it is a bit later. Symptoms can 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 condition may be misdiagnosed as autism, or a mood disorder such as anxiety or depression.
If your child or teen is showing indications of ADHD the first step is to consult your doctor. They will do a physical exam, including vision and hearing, to make sure there's nothing else going on. Your child and you will be asked to complete the list of symptoms. They'll want to know how their symptoms have affected their home and school life. They'll also want learn about any previous issues they've faced.
For adults, a medical professional who is certified to diagnose ADHD will use clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or checklists of symptoms to determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosis. They might also do psychological tests to gauge your cognitive abilities and learn how you process information and think. They might also do an examination of your brain using the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid, which is FDA-approved (NEBA) which measures the activity of certain areas of your brain that control the ability to focus and the ability to be impulsive.
In addition, they will look at your medical history to see whether you've suffered from any other mental health conditions or injuries such as thyroid or head trauma that could cause similar symptoms. They may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct a thorough assessment.
To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to have at least six or more signs that began in your childhood or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms must last at minimum six months and create significant problems for your daily functioning. Adults have the lower threshold for diagnosis, however the criteria are the same: You must exhibit at least five symptoms that interfere with your work, social and home life.
Treatment
Treatment aims to ease symptoms and restore functioning at home, work and at school. There are many treatment options including medications and behavior therapy. Many people have success with lifestyle changes, such as establishing consistent routines by using a planner or notebook and scheduling tasks prior to time. Some people might benefit from learning disabilities therapies such as metacognitive therapy, which assists them in improving their problem-solving skills and organizational abilities or cognitive behavioral therapy, which addresses thinking distortions which can cause low self-esteem and negative moods.
Health professionals who are specially trained to recognize ADHD can recommend the best treatment for a person's situation. They will look at the person's current symptoms, and if an adult, their previous behavior and school experiences. They will use clinical interviewing, scales for assessing behavior and symptom checklists to determine if the individual meets ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also take a family history of mental health problems and physical ailments. They will ask the person or their parents as well as teachers about their moods and behaviors and about how they've changed over time.
The diagnosis of ADHD is based on six or more symptoms, that begin before 12 years of age and create issues in at least two different settings (at school, at home or in social situations). The symptoms must have been present for at least six months. In addition the symptoms must be more severe than one would expect for a person of that age.
A medical checkup is typically carried out to confirm that the patient isn't suffering from any other health issues. adult diagnosis of adhd will review the patient's medical and psychiatric histories and examine their symptoms. They may also suggest an hearing or eye test. Some people with ADHD are genetically predisposed to the disorder. A person who has a parent or sibling with ADHD has a 91% chance to develop the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by a mood or anxiety disorder. These disorders are more difficult to treat than ADHD by itself.
Prevention
Many things, such as certain medical conditions and learning disabilities, can lead to symptoms similar to those of ADHD. It's important to consult an expert in mental health or health care provider for an assessment prior to determining the diagnosis. This person will ask about the symptoms of your child and how they affect their daily life. They can also utilize scoring scales or a checklist to decide if your child has ADHD. They could also conduct an examination of the body and test for hearing or vision problems. They may also order a brain scan called an EEG that examines beta and theta waves to detect changes in your child's brain's function.
Children diagnosed with ADHD must show symptoms that are more than what is normal for their age and developmental level. The signs of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity have to cause serious problems at home, at school or at work. The symptoms must also affect your child's ability to interact with other people. If your child exhibits moderate or severe ADHD symptoms they will require treatment with medication to lead the normal life.
Children with ADHD may have trouble following directions and staying on task. This can lead to low grades and a lack of self-esteem. They may also struggle with social interactions because they have trouble reading social cues and frequently interrupt others or come off as violent or aggressive. They are at risk for anxiety, depression as well as substance abuse and relationship issues.
People who have mild ADHD have symptoms that are apparent but do not interfere with their lives or make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate to severe ADHD will exhibit more symptoms, and are more likely than others to have problems at work, including difficulty keeping a job, or interacting with colleagues.
People who don't receive treatment could face grave consequences, such as health issues, financial problems, and legal issues. There are a variety of 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 to talk with your family members about them.