What You Need To Do On This ADHD Diagnoses
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. He will also look at your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in life. An event that is significant, such as the birth of a child or a relationship issues can trigger awareness of the problem. Getting a diagnosis is the first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children have trouble staying still, waiting their turn and paying attention in schools and other settings, kids who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD suffer from these issues to a degree that significantly impairs functioning at home, in school or at work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity must be present for at least six months and must be more than what is typical for the child's age and development level. Additionally, they should be causing significant pain and problems at school, home, at work, as well as in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires an extensive clinical assessment by a trained health professional. This may include a physical exam and a look at other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like depression or thyroid disease. The health care provider may also review the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. In addition, the doctor will ask the patient questions about the symptoms they are experiencing. For children the questions are generally targeted towards their age, and parents may be interviewed as well.
The provider will use American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5 which is the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will examine the patient's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it affects their professional, social and family life. If it is possible, the therapist will also look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When looking at adults, the physician will be able to determine whether or not they have a co-occurring mental health condition and will inquire whether the person has any family history of ADHD. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a health professional suspects that someone has ADHD, he or she will give the person a complete clinical evaluation that includes a review of their current symptoms and asking them to keep a diary of their symptoms for several weeks. He or she may also inquire about any other medical conditions they have, and use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient meets any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all certified to diagnose ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.
The first step in diagnosing ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam, including assessment of hearing and vision. A specialist might also suggest the use of a brain scanner, also known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scanning can be used to detect ADHD in a non-invasive, secure manner.
The doctor will go over the person's medical history, including his medical and psychiatric history dating to his childhood. The examiner will also review the individual's current symptoms as well as coping mechanisms. 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).
For children and teens being evaluated for ADHD, the doctor will likely request teachers and other individuals who spend a lot of time with the child to fill out checklists or questionnaires. The doctor might also ask parents to complete such forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, coworkers, and other close family members. They might also wish to interview someone who has known 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. He or she will also determine for how long the symptoms have been present for, and whether they cause difficulties at home, school, work or in other areas of daily life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. The professional should also look for physical causes, like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. A thorough screening will also look at the person's psychological, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging the school staff to monitor their child closely, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patience. They can also instruct relaxation and calming methods like meditation or yoga. Many children suffering from ADHD can benefit from regular physical activity and a healthy diet which can improve their ability to focus and concentrate. Drinks and foods that are high in sugar can cause more symptoms. Also, they should ensure they sleep enough.
The signs of ADHD can persist throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or with relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person has ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation includes an assessment of the mental state as well as a physical exam and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents or spouses, and other people familiar with him or her. The provider may ask the person to list their symptoms and how they affect them. The doctor may also use rating scales or other tests to confirm that the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. The person may also inquire about any medical conditions that may mimic ADHD symptoms, such as seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If someone is diagnosed as having ADHD, medication is prescribed to manage symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children and adults. They are able to cause adverse consequences, and therefore a person should only take them under medical supervision and with a prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications she is taking, because certain drugs can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages before settling on one that is suitable for them.
Prevention
In certain cases the reduction of exposure to triggers in the environment can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to the way you eat, your sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control these triggers and can refer you for additional assistance or a dietitian to suggest changes to your diet.
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Adults who suspect they have ADHD should see a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will take a thorough medical history, perform an examination of the body and review medical records to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, look at the patient's behavior in various environments and apply the standard rating scales. They will also examine the severity and frequency of core ADHD symptoms, and if they cause significant impairment in a person's life.
A therapist may collaborate with a patient as well as their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other methods for managing time. They may also train the patient in metacognitive abilities, which involves identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of limited options. Psychologists are able to prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can aid by providing a stable, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, promoting an excellent sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. They must also encourage their child to socialize, and make an effort to build a healthy bond with their spouse.
The staff at the school may offer valuable information regarding behavior and learning issues in the child, but they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. The student's parents and healthcare provider must make these decisions with the support of the teacher.