Test: How Much Do You Know About Who Diagnoses ADHD?
Who Diagnoses ADHD?
Psychologists, counselors and therapists who are licensed to diagnose ADHD are also included in the list. Nurse practitioners and social workers also can perform initial assessments and offer therapy but cannot prescribe medication.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD must show more than five symptoms, that can cause problems at work or in school and are not explained by other mental disorders or mood disorders.
Medical Doctor
To make a correct diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough evaluation. This should be conducted by an experienced mental health professional or medical doctor who is trained to recognize ADHD. There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can carry out an ADHD evaluation, such as family nurses, doctors, a neurologist or psychiatrist and master level counselors with an education in counseling or psychology. The best way to determine ADHD is a psychiatrist who has experience treating ADHD patients.
The doctor or mental health professional will examine the patient and examine his or her symptoms, past history and how those symptoms affect the person's life. The person evaluating the patient compares the behavior of the person to what is normal for their age. The evaluator will also determine whether the symptoms are better explained by a different illness, such as depression or a physical illness.
The evaluator will talk to the parents teachers, parents, and any other caregivers that interact with the child. This includes coaches, daycare providers, etc. The evaluator will also review the child's developmental and educational history. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD children must display at least six symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and/or impulsivity. The symptoms must be present at least twice and result in problems at home, school at work, and in social situations.
Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD will undergo similar discussions with family members and coworkers and will also be asked to provide a complete medical and mental health history. They will be asked how the symptoms have affected them and whether they have experienced difficulties with their relationships, work or school. The professional in mental health will also assess the person's mood, medical history as well as other issues such as drug or alcoholic use.
Some people may think they should be screened for ADHD by their primary doctor or general practitioner since they are aware of their medical background. This isn't always the best choice. One should think about whether or not the person is comfortable speaking to their doctor about this particular issue and if they are confident that the doctor can recognize and rule out any medical condition that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Psychiatrist
In some cases the primary care physician may be able diagnose ADHD in the patient. The doctor can assess the situation and determine if medication will be necessary. They can also refer patients to specialists who can assist with treatment. Other professionals that can diagnose ADHD include psychologists, psychiatrists and physician's assistants. In certain cases the services of a neurologist are required to examine the brain and central nervous system.
A psychiatric examination involves interviewing the patient, parents and caregivers, as well as assessing school performance and medical history and completing mental health questionnaires and tests. A psychiatric expert can also recommend medical tests to rule out other diseases or conditions that may cause symptoms of ADHD. These include low birth weight, complications with delivery, environmental toxins in pregnancy or exposure in the early years of childhood to alcohol and drugs.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, their symptoms must manifest in at least two settings that include at home, work, and social activities. They must also be significantly restricting the person's performance, and they must not be explained better by other mental illnesses or mood disorders, like depression or bipolar disorder. If the symptoms of ADHD hinder the person's ability to do their job, they're qualified for reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
A psychologist or counselor who has a master's in counseling may be able to assist people with ADHD. They can assist people in understanding their symptoms and help how to deal with their symptoms. They can also provide emotional support and support. People suffering from ADHD often feel like they're judged for their inability to concentrate and finish tasks, but receiving an assessment can help them realize it's not their fault.
It is essential to choose a healthcare professional who isn't judgmental and is willing to speak freely with the patient. It is also important to think about the level of experience and knowledge that the healthcare professional is. If they appear to lack understanding of ADHD or consider it to be a minor condition the patient may have to find a new doctor.
Psychologist
Although they hold advanced degrees and are addressed as psychologists, psychologists specialize in mental health conditions such as ADHD. They are able to offer counseling and provide assessments that are based on expertise however they are not able to prescribe medications. They can request to speak with other people, such as teachers and parents to get a clearer picture of the individual's experiences. They may also ask questions about the person's current behavior. They will determine if signs have been present since the time of their birth, and if not it is if they have only been present for the last six months.
Anyone who is concerned that they may have ADHD should talk to their primary healthcare provider. While they may not be able diagnose the problem, they can assist in referring patients to specialists who are able to. Patients should choose a specialist whom they feel confident and comfortable. They should stay clear of specialists who judge or ignore their concerns as they are not able to provide the care required.
Some healthcare providers like family physicians and psychiatrists, may be able to assess and treat adults with ADHD. Before making an appointment, it's important to find out who is the most knowledgeable in treating ADHD. Inform your doctor about the medications you are taking such as sedatives and stimulant drugs. These medications could cause dangerous adverse effects when they interact.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger a variety of emotions, including relief and confusion. If you are diagnosed with ADHD, you should seek out additional support from other members of their treatment team like educational specialists, speech and language therapists, and behavioral therapists.
People suffering from ADHD are more likely to suffer from co-occurring disorders like bipolar disorder or depression. BD and ADHD have a lot of similar symptoms, and it's therefore important to distinguish them during the evaluation. For instance, people with BD are often prone to experiencing periods of severe depression, followed by episodes of mania. They may exaggerate how much energy they have, and be easily distracted and forget their appointments. Their doctor can refer them to mental health professionals that specialize in BD who can assist with diagnosis and treatment.
Education Specialist
If your child seems to have trouble with hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity that is disruptive to school and at home it's crucial to discuss it with a health professional. Primary health care physicians, therapists and psychiatrists are all qualified to recognize ADHD. According to the professional's training and qualifications, they may be able to offer psychotherapy.
When determining ADHD health professionals consider several factors. adhd diagnosis in adults examine the symptoms, and how they affect a person's daily functioning, whether it is at home, in the classroom, at work, or in relationships. They also look at the person's history of symptoms as well as any family history of ADHD.
A person must show at least six symptoms, such as hyperactivity or inattention, for them to be identified as having ADHD. These symptoms are listed in the criteria for diagnosing children with ADHD. It is a difficult process and health professionals need as much information on the patient as they can. This includes information directly from the person's teachers, parents and other caregivers. It is essential to analyze the behavior of a teenager's or child in multiple settings, as symptoms may differ in different situations.
Most often, those who are diagnosed with ADHD find themselves struggling at work or at home in ways that aren't typical of their abilities and age. The diagnosis is a relief since it indicates that the issues are not due to laziness or a lack in brain power. They can be treated by medication or other options for treatment.
Adults are more likely be diagnosed with ADHD when symptoms were present in childhood. It's because it is believed that ADHD is not a condition that can be detected until adulthood. Some medical and mental illnesses, as well as major life events may trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. It's important to rule these out before making an official diagnosis.
When choosing a health professional to assess or treat your ADHD you should seek recommendations from your people you know, family members and therapists you are comfortable with. It is also advisable to conduct your research and learn more about the professional's qualifications and experience. You might also want to inquire about their previous clients and patients.