ADHD Diagnosis
Children suffering from ADHD are incapable of sitting still, focus or behave impulsively. The symptoms of ADHD have been present for at least six months and are more severe than normal for children of their age.
adhd diagnosis in adults diagnose ADHD through questionnaires, discussions with teachers and parents, and school performance records. They also look at a patient's history and any other mental health problems.
Diagnosing ADHD
A diagnosis can be a source of relief for those suffering from ADHD. It can also bring a sense acceptance. But getting an official diagnosis can also be a stressful experience, particularly if a person doesn't plan to use medication as a part of their treatment.
A professional who specializes in diagnosing ADHD will go over your child's or your own's history and symptoms. They'll ask questions about when symptoms first started and if they've become worse over time. They'll also assess your child's or your own development as well as your mental health and lifestyle. They may also speak with teachers, coaches or other adults who know your child.
The goal is to determine if you or your child suffer from symptoms that are in line with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition DSM-V criteria1. This means six or more symptoms related to ADHD that affect everyday functioning, and are not explained by any other factor like problems at home or school eating disorders, poor nutrition or anxiety, or sleep disorders.
In addition to the DSM-V criteria, your doctor will consider your or your child's past behavior and performance. They will look at the time your child takes to complete tasks, if they tend to make erroneous mistakes and if they struggle to remain still. They'll also determine if you or your child have a past history of anxiety, depression or mood disorders, which often occur in conjunction with ADHD.
Other factors that can influence the outcome of an ADHD assessment include whether you or your child has an history of physical trauma or birth-related complications, or an abnormal thyroid gland. They may also be looking for other conditions such as bipolar disorder and learning disabilities.
When you take a face-toface ADHD assessment either you or your child may take one of many ADHD tests, such as the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid System (NEBA). This tool examines brain wave patterns and is affixed for children ages 6 to 17. It is important to understand that ADHD testing is only one aspect of an overall assessment.
Symptoms of ADHD
People with ADHD have a different method of making use of brain networks to send and relay messages. They aren't able to focus their attention or managing their behavior. This can lead to issues at home as well as at school. They tend to make decisions without considering the consequences or the needs of others. They make a lot of mistakes at work and at school. If symptoms persist for longer than 6 months and disrupt the school day and community, the disorder is diagnosed.
Doctors use ADHD symptoms checklists and standard behavior ratings scales to determine whether an individual meets the criteria for diagnosis. They might also request the patient to describe their problems in their own words. They may also interview those who know the patient, for example, a sibling or spouse for adults, or a teacher or coach when they are children. These interviews often provide valuable insight that can't be gathered from tests or questionnaires.
ADHD symptoms can occur at any age, but they typically begin in childhood. When diagnosing a patient, doctors should consider the issues they experienced in their childhood. They may need to look at the school records from the past or speak with the patient's parents or teachers about the symptoms they experienced as in the midst of their childhood.
Many adults suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed because they dealt with their problems as children by using techniques or strategies to learn. As they struggle to manage work with family, work, and other obligations, their symptoms can be more obvious. Women and girls are able to hide their symptoms more easily than males and females. This makes diagnosis more difficult.
Researchers believe that although the cause of ADHD is not yet known, genetics and certain environment factors may contribute to the development of ADHD. Exposure to drugs prior to birth, alcohol or nicotine may increase the risk for developing the disorder. Trauma and early loss of attachment may also trigger this disorder. The symptoms are caused by chemical changes in the nervous system, which occur during crucial developmental times.
Medication for ADHD
In a typical examination, an expert in health will conduct an interview with you or your child. They will ask you questions about the symptoms you or your child have been experiencing, their frequency, and the issues they create. They may also talk to other people who are in your life, including family members, teachers and coaches to help them gain an accurate picture of your or your child's behavior.
The healthcare professionals may employ a list of ADHD symptoms to determine whether your child is a candidate for the disorder. They may also take into consideration other disorders, such as mood disorders and anxiety that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are usually prescribed medication to manage symptoms. The stimulants, which include those that contain methylphenidate and amphetamine are believed to increase and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. In certain adults, these drugs can also enhance their ability to think clearly and make sound decisions. Other options include non-stimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. These medications are less potent than stimulants, however they are effective for children who are in a position to not take stimulants due to medical conditions or severe adverse effects.
The treatment of children suffering from ADHD is largely dependent on parents taking an active part in therapy sessions. Parents learn to communicate better with their child, and how to support their child at school and at home. Therapists can help parents learn parenting skills and strategies for managing stress that will help them cope better with the demands placed on children with ADHD.
Some people who suffer from ADHD also have co-occurring psychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety, which need to be treated simultaneously with the ADHD symptoms. A psychiatrist or psychologist who is trained to treat ADHD is often in close contact with a mental specialist who can treat coexisting issues. Therapists can help people with ADHD develop coping and organization skills that will improve their relationships and quality. They can also suggest classes that teach problem-solving and communication skills.
Treatment for ADHD
There are many different treatments available for ADHD in adults and children. Your doctor can help you determine the best treatment plan for either your child or adult. Treatment options include medication therapy, family counseling, and behavioral therapy. Support groups and psychoeducation are also beneficial.
Your child's symptoms will be assessed by your health care provider to determine if they suffer from ADHD. They might inquire about your child's behavior at school, at home, and in social situations. They will also look at your child's mood and medical history, and search for other conditions that may cause signs of ADHD such as seizure disorders and sleep apnea.
The most prevalent type of ADHD is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. This type is more common among young children. It's easy to spot because these kids tend to fidget and talk a lot and have trouble sitting still. They aren't able to pay attention at school and in other settings, such as family and community activities.
Other forms of ADHD can be harder to identify because they typically present differently in different settings. Certain adults may exhibit inattention but not the hyperactivity or an impulsiveness that are seen in younger individuals. These adults may have trouble keeping jobs or keeping up with their tasks or may become annoyed easily and struggle with relationships.
Some people with ADHD suffer from anxiety or depression in addition to their ADHD symptoms. They require a different treatment plan that includes psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy). It's important for your mental health professional to assess these additional symptoms along with the ADHD symptoms.
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD. They can be taken orally, as a nasal spray or patch. The majority of people are safe from adverse effects. However, some people might experience a slowing of their pulse rate, decreased appetite, or a change in mood.
Certain people with ADHD can be helped by taking a variety of other medications or supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids as well as vitamins C and E. These can help improve concentration and decrease anxiety.