How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will be asking questions about your current symptoms and previous experiences with ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. adhd diagnosis uk that is significant, such as pregnancy or a breakup can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step in addressing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to obtain a diagnosis.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have a lot of trouble sitting still, waiting for a call and focusing at school or in other settings. These problems can significantly affect their functioning at work, home, or school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for at least 6 months and must be significantly greater than what is expected for the child's age or development level. They must be causing major problems at work, school or at home, as well as in relationships.
Being diagnosed with ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a trained health care professional. This may include a physical examination, and a look at other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid or depression. The health professional may also review the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. In addition, he will ask the patient questions about their symptoms. For children the questions are typically geared toward their age, and parents can be interviewed as well.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Association's guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in adults and children that are described in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The provider will review the person's current symptoms and previous behavior, focusing on how they interfere with their family, social, and professional lives. If possible, he or she will review the person's childhood behavior and school experiences too.
When evaluating adults, the provider will consider whether they have a co-occurring mental health condition and ask if the person has a family history of ADHD. Family members of those who suffer from ADHD are more likely to develop it themselves.
If the health care provider suspects that someone has ADHD the doctor will provide the patient with a complete clinical evaluation which includes reviewing their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms for a few weeks. They will also inquire about any other issues the person has and will consult the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if they have any of the characteristics of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who are interested in ADHD or have a specialization in mental illness can test and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner and psychiatrists are all able to diagnose ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They may recommend adults to undergo a thorough evaluation.
The first step in diagnosing ADHD is an extensive medical examination which includes a thorough assessment of hearing and vision. Additionally, a doctor might suggest an examination of the brain, known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the relative concentration of the theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scanning can be used to test for ADHD in a non-invasive, safe method.
In an interview with the person the examiner will review the individual's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, in addition to the present symptoms and coping strategies. 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 adolescents and children being screened for ADHD, the doctor will likely have teachers and other professionals who spend a lot of time with the child to fill out checklists or questionnaires. The doctor might also ask parents to fill out these forms. For adults, he or she is likely to talk to spouses and other close friends, as well as colleagues, and may want to interview relatives who know the person from their 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 determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and if they result in impairment at home, in the workplace, at school or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional should also screen for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They should also look for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. A thorough screening will also take a look at the person's psychological, social and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can assist them by encouraging school staff to observe the child's progress, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques, such as meditation or yoga. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can boost the ability of children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can make their symptoms worse. They should also make sure they sleep enough.
The signs of ADHD are present throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. In adults, they may manifest as trouble at work or in relationships. A doctor will conduct an assessment to determine if a person has ADHD and how severe it is. This evaluation includes an assessment of the mental state, a physical examination, and interviews with the person and his or her parents and spouses or partners and others who are familiar with the person. The healthcare provider might ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they affect them. The doctor might also employ ratings scales and other tests to verify that the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. The person may also ask about any medical conditions that could be similar to ADHD symptoms, such as thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication is typically prescribed to manage the symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children as well as adults. These medications can cause adverse effects. One should only use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. Discuss with your doctor any medications you are taking. read review may interact with stimulants, causing dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD need to test various types and dosages of medications before they discover one that works.
Prevention
In certain cases the reduction of exposure to environmental triggers can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include sleeping and eating habits as well as family structure and medications. A GP can guide you in finding ways to control triggers and suggest a dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Children can also be assisted by maintaining their routines, limiting caffeine and sugar and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid taking supplements that do not have scientific backing or that may interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they have ADHD should see a mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist to get a diagnosis. The doctor will take a detailed history, do a physical exam and review medical records to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe their behavior and use the standard ratings scales. The therapist will assess the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as in determining whether they have an impact on a person's everyday life.
Therapists may collaborate with a patient as well as their family members to improve parenting, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive skills which includes the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of choices. Psychologists can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also help by providing a secure and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging good sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. They must also encourage their child to be social and make an effort to develop a healthy relationship with their child's partner.
School staff can provide valuable information on the behavior and learning issues of a student however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or decide on treatment. The parents of the child and their health care provider have to make these decisions with the help of the teacher.