How to Diagnose ADHD
Diagnosing ADHD involves gathering a variety of information. Your doctor will review your symptoms and past history, and use the standard ADHD rating scales. They will also check for other problems that may be contributing to the symptoms of your adult or child like sleep disorders, thyroid problems or depression. You may also be suffering from addiction to drugs.
To be diagnosed, ADHD symptoms must significantly affect family and school activities and persist for at least six months.
Symptoms
A health care provider needs to take a careful look at a patient before determining ADHD. He or she will ask questions about the symptoms, review family medical, social, and histories, and examine the mental health of the person's current and prior and medical issues. The provider may also order tests to confirm the absence of anxiety, depression or other disorders that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
A person with ADHD is more likely to have trouble staying focused for long periods of time. This can hinder school work and other tasks that are important. They are more prone to getting distracted by people, activities or objects around them. They have difficulty following instructions, remembering specifics and meeting deadlines. They may be easily annoyed by criticism or set unrealistic expectations for themselves, which could lead to failure and disappointments.
Symptoms of ADHD The symptoms of ADHD vary from person to person and can be mild, moderate, or severe. Mild symptoms don't interfere with the daily routine or relationships. Severe symptoms can cause serious problems at home and at work. People who have ADHD typically experience symptoms throughout their lives. It is more common in children, however some adults are not diagnosed as they are able to cope with the symptoms.
For children with ADHD, the doctor will do a thorough exam including hearing and vision tests. The doctor will discuss with the child, parents and teachers about their behaviour and habits and may order a brain imaging study to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms for example, an MRI or CT scan.
A psychiatric evaluation is typically carried out by a psychologist clinical social worker or nurse practitioner. The person who evaluates the patient will inquire about the person's symptoms, how they impact his or her life and work, and will consider the family's history and education. They will also look at the person's mental and medical history, and speak with other family members and friends to get a complete picture.
The evaluator will decide if the person has the predominantly inattentive presentation of ADHD, the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type or both. The inattentive presentation is more common among girls and affects all ages, while the hyperactive-impulsive type is more common in boys and younger children.
Triggers
If you have a child who is constantly daydreaming, struggling to concentrate on schoolwork or other activities at home, or is easily distracted by their peers, it may be the time to seek help. ADHD is a brain disorder that is a problem for children who have trouble paying attention, controlling their behavior or being organized. It can affect children in a variety of ways and can cause issues at school, at home, and with their relationships with family members and classmates.
Before taking your child to visit a doctor, begin by taking notes and watching how they behave. A good psychiatrist or a psychologist will analyze various symptoms and signs to determine if your child is suffering from ADHD or ADD. They will also consider the developmental stage of your child and age. A child diagnosed with ADD must show at least 6 symptoms (or five in the case of teenagers older than) of inattention for at least six months. These symptoms are a hindrance to daily functioning. The signs of ADHD include fumbling and talking, tapping, or other constant movement, and a failure to follow instructions, chores, or classroom or workplace tasks.
A professional will ask about the consequences of these behaviors for your child's daily life. They will be interested in knowing whether they struggle with their schoolwork or other pursuits or have trouble maintaining relationships with friends or romantic partners, and are frequently late for appointments. They will also examine your child's past medical history and any medications they are currently taking as some medications can trigger symptoms of ADHD.
The criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-5, are intended to help diagnose children. The most reliable method to identify ADHD for adults is by a clinical interview conducted by a specialist with experience with the disorder. They will not rush the process and take their time. They typically use computer programs and scans of the brain to assess your child's structure.
Recognizing triggers is the initial step in managing ADHD. Once you know what triggers your symptoms you can take actions to avoid these triggers. For instance you can limit screen time, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular sleep time.
Diagnosis
The first thing to do if you suspect you may have ADHD is to seek a professional diagnosis. Medical professionals are often equipped with special training in assessing ADHD in adults. Ask about the professional's education and experience with adult ADHD.
Your doctor will use Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), fifth edition, to determine a diagnosis. iampsychiatry.com want to determine if you suffer from several symptoms that are present for at least six months. They may interfere with your daily routine whether at home, work or socially. These include: inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, difficulty sitting still or waiting your turn, trouble organizing activities, making careless mistakes, problems with schoolwork or work, and difficulties forming close relationships.
The examination will also look at other conditions that may be similar to the symptoms of ADHD. These include learning disorders as well as mood disorders like depression or anxiety. Thyroid conditions, head injuries and other medical problems are also considered. Your doctor may also examine your family history to determine whether you suffered from ADHD as when you were a child.
It is important to include information from family members in your assessment because people with ADHD struggle to form close relationships. Teachers, religious and Scout leaders as well as coaches, coworkers, and others who spend time with you may also offer useful information. They can provide important information to your doctor, such as how you interact with them, or if you face any challenges in these relationships.
An assessment for ADHD usually involves an interview with your physician and questionnaires that you complete. Computer programs, like continuous test of performance or brain scans using SPECT, can be utilized to determine impulsivity and attention.
You and your doctor will discuss your life to determine if you're experiencing any significant problems at work or in your relationships. If you have a spouse or partner you could consider pursuing couples therapy too. You and your physician must work together to find an approach that is most suitable for you. This can include changes in your lifestyle, counseling, and medication.
Treatment
Treatment for ADHD can aid your child or help you manage symptoms and lead a more productive lifestyle. There are a variety of treatments available that include therapy and medication.
It's important to work with a mental health professional who specializes in ADHD. They will provide you with an accurate diagnosis, create an appropriate treatment plan, and teach you coping skills to manage your symptoms. They can also collaborate with your child's teachers to support their behavior and learning needs at school.
Most kids and teens with ADHD are treated with the combination of behavioral therapy and medication. The dosage and kind of medication can differ from one individual to another. It can take a while to determine the appropriate dosage and medication that works for you or your child. Discuss with your doctor different medication options and request samples. You can then test out the different drugs to determine which are the most effective and have less adverse effects.
Adults who have untreated ADHD might have issues at work or in their relationships. They may have difficulty keeping a job, getting on with co-workers, or meeting financial obligations. They may also be suffering from depression and anxiety, as well. A medical professional will evaluate the person's emotional and mental history and moods. The provider may suggest an evaluation for mood disorders or other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
During the consultation for diagnosis the healthcare professional will pay attention to your or your child's story. They may inquire about your family and social life. They might ask how the symptoms affect you or your child's daily functioning. They can ask their teachers and relatives for more details to obtain an entire picture. The doctor is likely to suggest a thorough physical examination, including blood and urine tests. The doctor may also suggest brain imaging.
If you think you or your child might be suffering from ADHD, start talking to your primary physician. They may refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist or another mental health professional who is specialized in treating ADHD. It is also important to check with your health insurance to ensure that the professionals you're thinking about hiring are covered. If not, you might want to consider a mental health insurance plan like BetterHelp.