Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
Finding a diagnosis for ADHD is often the first step toward managing symptoms that affect daily life. Many people are reluctant about finding out if they have an assessment. However, it could be a relief.
A clinical interview is usually the first step in an ADHD assessment. Experts may also administer screening tests to detect co-existing conditions like learning disabilities or mood disorders.
Signs and 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 who suffer from ADHD often have trouble with organizational tasks as well as paying attention in work or school and remembering important events. They are prone impulsive behavior like cutting in line, interrupting others, or not following rules. They might also have difficulty finishing projects, keeping appointments or paying their bills.
When seeking a diagnosis, it is crucial to find a doctor who is trained in ADHD. Find local chapters of mental health organizations, local support group or seek a referral from another trusted source. It is also a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see if there are providers in the network who specialize in ADHD.
A comprehensive psychiatric assessment will include a thorough patient description of their symptoms and a thorough review of the family and personal history, including past mental health, medical and educational problems and an examination of psychoeducational or neuropsychological tests as well as a physical examination. The clinician will also interview other people who are close to the patient, such as their spouses or partners, to learn the extent to which ADHD symptoms impact their lives. Many people with ADHD have poor memories of their childhood, and it is helpful to ask parents or other relatives complete questionnaires detailing the child's symptoms.
Adults suffering from ADHD might be hesitant to admit that their issues stem from their attention deficit disorder. They may be shamed, angry and frustrated for being unable to stay focused and organized at home and at work. They may also think that their troubles stem from their own mistakes or character flaws. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring hope and relief for the future, and enable them to realize that their problems aren't their responsibility.
Diagnosis
There isn't a single physical or medical test to determine ADHD (previously called ADD), but a qualified mental health care professional will gather information about your child or adult's symptoms by utilizing numerous sources. These include ADHD symptoms lists, standardized behavioral rating scales and a detailed account of the person's previous and current functioning.
A thorough evaluation can also include a psycho-psychological examination such as an inventory of personality or a neuropsychological test. A health care provider will also look into the medical history of the patient, including any current or past illnesses, injuries, and medications, such as the mood-stabilizing drug steroids.
Other conditions and disorders can mimic ADHD symptoms. adult adhd diagnosis uk include learning disabilities, anxiety disorders, mood disorders and medical conditions like sleep apnea, head injuries and thyroid disorders. A thorough evaluation of psychiatric disorders will help determine the cause and identify effective treatment options.
The symptoms of a person require significant impairment in two or more significant settings, such as at home and at school, in order to qualify for ADHD diagnosis. This is especially relevant for children and young adults. Without treatment, these people may struggle to be successful in school, find it difficult to maintain jobs, and may have difficulty maintaining relationships and friendships.
It's important to seek an assessment from a health care professional who specializes in working with children and adolescents. You can find many primary care doctors or mental health professionals who diagnose ADHD. However you should find a specialist that will do an exhaustive evaluation. During the clinical interview the doctor will inquire about your child's and your own personal and family history, as well as review the criteria for diagnosing ADHD established by the American Psychiatric Association in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition.
Treatment
There are a myriad of psychiatric issues that can mimic ADHD in adults as well as children. A thorough psychiatric examination is necessary to determine if there are any other disorders. These include mood disorders and anxiety disorders. They also include learning disabilities as well as head trauma, thyroid conditions and use of drugs. These alternate explanations can have a significant impact on quality of life.
A comprehensive mental health assessment includes an interview with the person being evaluated and checklists and questionnaires completed by others in their life. This could include parents, spouses siblings, teachers and parents for children; co-workers as well as therapists, friends and coworkers for adults. Personal insight often uncovers information that can't be culled from a list of questions or checklists and also helps the doctor understand how a person's ADHD symptoms may have affected his or her relationships with others.
In addition to reviewing symptoms, the psychologist or psychiatrist can also review the medical history of a patient. A physical exam, including audio and vision tests, is also conducted. An electroencephalograph or EEG scan, which measures brain waves and can help identify the presence of ADHD, is available in some offices.
Some patients opt to take part in a clinical trial to determine if the new medication they are taking can help their symptoms. However, participants must be aware that the primary goal of a clinical study is to learn new knowledge about science and not to treat a disease.
Based on the findings of the evaluation, the doctor will recommend treatment options that may include psychotherapy, medications or other therapies. In some instances, a combination treatment is the most effective. Medication is generally safe for both children and adults and can alleviate some symptoms. Other methods can be successful such as behavior therapy and lifestyle modifications.
Medication
For certain people, medication can reduce symptoms of ADHD and improve their capacity to function. It can be difficult to determine the right dosage and medication, and it can take some time to adjust to side effects. Some medications can cause someone to feel tired or sleepy and it is essential to discuss this with a physician.
Psychiatrists can prescribe stimulants which boost the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain to lessen the symptoms of ADHD. They can prescribe non-stimulant drugs that enhance impulsivity and attention but aren't as effective as stimulants. They can prescribe mood stabilisers or antidepressants for people with depression, and other disorders that may be present in conjunction with ADHD.
Other treatments that can help those suffering from ADHD include psychotherapy, family therapy and training or education programs for adults and children. These treatments can help people learn strategies and techniques to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at home and at school.
In some instances a mental or medical health professional can detect ADHD in children by reviewing their school records and discussing the child's behavior with the child's teachers and caregivers. They will likely interview the child, conduct psychological tests, and screen to determine if there is any learning disabilities or other conditions that have similar symptoms.
To be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis, they must exhibit at least six of nine symptoms listed in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM-IV TR) and these symptoms must be significant enough to affect adaptive functioning in the classroom as well as at home. Additionally, they must not be explained better by another condition.
Counseling
If you require treatment or medication for ADHD seek out a licensed professional who has experience treating the disorder. Your primary care physician will offer a recommendation or guide you to specialists in your region. Some professionals specializing in ADHD also offer telemedicine via the internet, which makes appointments easy and convenient. Many insurance companies allow you to schedule appointments using their system.
In children, doctors and specialists in ADHD can diagnose the disorder based on discussing symptoms with teachers and parents, observing the child or an adolescent in various settings including interviewing family members, and conducting an assessment for learning disabilities. They also examine school records and questionnaires filled out by teachers and caregivers. To be eligible for a diagnosis an adult or adolescent must present at least five signs:
A complete medical history is essential to diagnose ADHD. Because adults often have poor or hazy memories of childhood, doctors might seek information from other sources like spouses or other family members. They should also evaluate for other possible causes for symptoms resembling ADHD, like developmental disorders, brain injuries or other health issues.
In the initial consultation, the professional will examine how the patient copes with ADHD symptoms and the impact these symptoms have on their daily life. They should also discuss previous ADHD evaluations or treatments. It's also helpful to identify other conditions that share similar symptoms to ADHD, such as anxiety and mood disorders. When the evaluation of an individual, a mental health professional should also listen to the person in a respectful manner and without judgement. This is especially important if there is a history of depression, or addiction to drugs.