How To Tell If You're At The Right Level For ADHD Diagnosis
Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis for ADHD is often the first step towards controlling symptoms that interfere with everyday life. Many people are reluctant to seek out a diagnosis, but doing so can be a great relief.
A clinical interview is usually the first step in an ADHD assessment. Experts may also administer screening tests to identify co-existing conditions like 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 can be caused by an imbalance in the chemical system of the brain. Adults suffering from ADHD have difficulty with organizing tasks, paying attention at work or school, and remembering important dates. They are prone impulsive behavior like disrupting others, or not following rules. They may also have trouble making appointments, completing tasks or paying their bills.
If you are seeking a diagnosis, it is important to find an expert in ADHD. Ask for a referral by an established source, such as an organization that deals with mental health issues in the local area or support group. It's recommended to contact your insurance company to determine if there are providers in network who specialize in ADHD.
A thorough psychiatric evaluation will include a detailed description of symptoms as well as a review of the family and personal history, which includes past medical, mental health and educational problems and an examination of psychoeducational or neuropsychological tests and a physical examination. The clinician will also speak with people who are close to the patient, such as their spouses or partners, to learn how ADHD symptoms impact their lives. Many adults with ADHD have poor memories of their childhood. Hence, it is beneficial to ask parents or other close relatives fill out questionnaires describing the child's symptoms.
Adults with ADHD may have a difficult to admit their problems result from their attention deficit disorder. They may feel ashamed, frustrated and embarrassed for having trouble staying organized and focused at home and at work. They may also believe that their problems stem from their own shortcomings or flaws in their character. A diagnosis of ADHD could bring hope and a sense of relief for the future, and aid them in understanding that their problems aren't their fault.
Diagnosis
There isn't a single physical or medical test for ADHD (previously referred to as ADD) however an experienced mental health professional will collect information about your child or adult's symptoms by utilizing various sources. These include ADHD symptom checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed account of both present and past functioning and information from people who know the person well.
A thorough assessment could include a psychological exam like a personality inventory or neuropsychological tests. A health care provider will also look into the medical background of the patient, including past or current injuries, illnesses, as well as medications, such as mood-stabilizing drugs such as steroids.
Other conditions and disorders can mimic ADHD symptoms. This includes anxiety disorders, learning disabilities and mood disorders as in addition to other medical conditions, such as thyroid disorder or sleep apnea. A thorough psychiatric evaluation will help identify the root of the problem and identify effective treatments.
A person's symptoms must cause significant impairment in two or more significant settings, such as at home or at school, in order to be considered for ADHD diagnosis. This is especially relevant for young people and children. Without treatment, these individuals are likely to struggle to get ahead in school, struggle to keep their jobs and have trouble sustaining relationships and friendships.
It's crucial to seek an assessment from a health care provider who is familiar with working with children and teens. A majority of primary care physicians and mental health professionals routinely diagnose ADHD however, you must look for a specialist who takes the time to conduct a thorough assessment. During the consultation the doctor will ask you about your child's development and your family history. He or she will also go over the criteria established by the American Psychiatric Association for diagnosing ADHD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition.
Treatment
Many psychiatric disorders are similar to ADHD in both children and adults and a thorough psychiatric evaluation is required to rule out any other conditions. These include mood disorders and anxiety disorders. They also include learning disabilities as well as thyroid issues, head trauma, and drug use. It is crucial to consider the various explanations for symptoms because they can impact the quality of life.
A thorough mental health assessment typically includes an interview with the patient as well as questionnaires or checklists that are completed by other people in his or her life. This may include parents, spouses, siblings and teachers for children, co-workers or friends, as well as therapists for adults. Personal insight often uncovers details that aren't possible to extract from a checklist or a set of questions and also aids the therapist in understanding how a person's ADHD symptoms could have affected their relationships with other people.
The psychologist or psychiatrist will review the patient's medical records along with their symptoms. A physical exam is often also performed, which includes vision and hearing 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 determine if an upcoming medication can alleviate their symptoms. Participants should be aware that the primary objective of a study is to gain new knowledge, not treat a particular condition.
Depending on the results of the evaluation, the doctor may suggest treatment options that could include medications, psychotherapy or other therapies. In certain instances the combination of treatments is most effective. Medication is generally safe for both children and adults and can relieve some symptoms. Other interventions can be effective with regard to behavior therapy, for example lifestyle changes.
Medication
Certain people can enhance their performance by taking medication to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. It can be a challenge to find the right dose and kind of medication that works best, and it may take time to get used to any adverse effects. It is important to talk to your doctor if you feel sleepy or drowsy after taking certain medicines.
Psychiatrists can prescribe stimulants to lessen the symptoms of ADHD. These drugs increase the levels in the brain of specific neurotransmitters. They can prescribe non-stimulant drugs that enhance impulsivity and attention but aren't as effective as stimulants. They can also prescribe antidepressants or mood stabilizers to people suffering from depression and other disorders that may be present alongside ADHD.
Other treatments that can aid those suffering from ADHD include psychotherapy, family therapy and training or education programs for adults and children. These interventions can help individuals develop strategies and skills to cope with their symptoms and improve functioning at home and at school.
In some instances a mental or medical health professional can identify ADHD in a child by reviewing school records and discussing the child's behavior with the child's teachers and caregivers. They'll likely interview the child, perform psychological tests, and screen to see if there are any issues with learning or other disorders with similar symptoms.
To qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, they must exhibit at least six of 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 and at home. Additionally, they must not be better explained by another condition.
Counseling
If you require treatment or medication for ADHD, find a licensed professional with experience in treating the disorder. Your primary care physician can offer a recommendation or guide you to specialists in your area. Some professionals who specialize in ADHD provide telemedicine via the internet to make appointments easier and more convenient. Many insurance companies let you schedule appointments via their system.
Doctors and ADHD specialists can diagnose ADHD in children by discussing their symptoms with parents and teachers in-depth by observing them in various situations, speaking with the family members and conducting a study of learning disabilities. They also review the school documents and questionnaires completed by teachers and caregivers. To be eligible for a diagnosis the adult or adolescent must exhibit at least five signs:
A thorough medical history is also important for diagnosing ADHD. Clinicians might inquire about childhood memories from other sources, such as spouses or family members, since adults tend to have a poor or hazy memory of their childhood. They should also be looking for other possible causes, including brain injury, developmental disorder or other health issues that could be causing symptoms similar to ADHD.
In the initial meeting, the specialist will evaluate how the patient copes with ADHD symptoms and the impact these symptoms have on their daily lives. They must also discuss the history of any previous ADHD evaluations and treatments. It's also helpful to identify other conditions that exhibit similar symptoms with ADHD, such as mood disorders and anxiety. In addition to the evaluation of an individual as a mental health professional, they should also listen to the person in a respectful manner and without judgement. This is particularly important when the person has a history of depression or abuse.