The No. #1 Question That Everyone In ADHD Diagnose Should Know How To Answer
How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, but it can also affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve the quality of life for a person.
An assessment for ADHD could involve a conversation with the person and family members. The specialist could look through old school records to see whether symptoms began in the early years of childhood.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school, and home life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time to time. To be able to identify the disorder, someone must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect daily functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and inquire about family history and medical problems. They may also employ rating systems to measure symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are often constructed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults may be asked to speak with their spouse or someone they know well. This isn't meant to challenge the honesty of the patient, but to gain more insight into a person's behavior that can't be gathered from the answers to a questionnaire. You can also inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at the old school records to determine if the symptoms started before age 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will perform a physical exam and do tests on the lab to rule out other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The provider will also check the person's list of medications. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other issues. This is why it's essential for adults to consult their primary care physicians if they think they might have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD the symptoms must be evident in at least two places (such as at home, school and at work) and affect the functioning of the individual. The symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12 and cannot be caused by a different disorder such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional will employ various tools to evaluate the patient, including ADHD symptoms lists, standardized behaviour rating scales as well as a thorough medical history. They may also interview family members or friends to learn what the symptoms have done to them. They can also inquire whether there are other physical or mental conditions that have similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also examine the person's medical and family history in order to determine if there are root causes behind their condition like thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In some instances an evaluator might decide to conduct a cognitive test or request an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, including learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders or addiction to drugs. People with these issues often appear differently than those who do not have these issues. Boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactive symptoms, while girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD might be interested in participating in a clinical study to try out new treatments. This is a great chance to conduct further research. However, participants must be aware that the main goal of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and is not an assurance of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect you might have ADHD Find a doctor who is qualified to recognize the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider to find out if ADHD specialists are covered. You can also seek referrals from your family doctor or other health care providers. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a great option.
A doctor will interview the patient -- or their parents, in children's cases -- about their symptoms. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and also ask other people in a person's life for details including spouses and families. Personal insight will reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
An expert will also want to look over any documents the person might have, including old school reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must have been present since childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
Physical examinations are also typically performed. It is a way to identify any other medical conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders. A neurological examination is often performed by a specialist to test motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may be utilized. A person may be required to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could help the expert determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive, or impulsive. The expert will choose the best treatment plan and then make an appropriate diagnosis. Treatment plans usually comprise therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and help change negative thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by an primary care physician or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medication, but it's not the only method to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination can be beneficial to children, teens, and adults. These therapies aid them in coping and live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and how to manage it, may be incorporated. They can include family members, teachers and professionals.
It's crucial to locate a mental health professional or health care professional who is experienced in treating ADHD. You can ask your friends who suffer from ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health provider you've met. You can also conduct an online search. It is recommended to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To diagnose adults diagnosed with adhd to determine the cause, a health professional will inquire about your or your child's symptoms and issues caused by the condition. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review your your child's medical history and family history, school records, and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) (DSM-V) which is primarily geared towards diagnosing children and adolescents, has a harder to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your health care provider may interview you or your children about their symptoms and have others who spend a lot of time with them fill out checklists and questionnaires. They will use these to help them decide whether you or your child has inattentive ADHD, hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, combined ADHD or unspecified ADHD. ADHD medications include stimulants such as the methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine and atomoxe, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD have comorbid disorders such as depression or anxiety. This is why treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy that teaches skills such as time and task management as well as emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also assist patients manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is crucial as well. People suffering from ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar, and less fruit and vegetables. Lastly, making relationships with family and friends prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children an understanding comprehension of their issues. For instance, a child with ADHD may have trouble communicating their demands to peers and teachers However, once a teacher understands that it's not personal or due to a lack of motivation, accommodations can be provided.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are geared to the person's age, speak with family and teachers, review medical records, and look for any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from school could be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms began before age.
The doctor will also look for any hearing or vision problems. They may also perform an analysis of blood to determine the presence of specific hormones and other health conditions that can cause symptoms of ADHD.