Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Adults are often not diagnosed until they have significant issues at work, home or school. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) is used by health care providers to diagnose mental disorders.
A full evaluation includes ADHD symptom checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health care professionals also ask about family history and go through old school records.
Symptoms
The symptoms of ADHD can affect the way a person lives at home, school or work. They can cause disruption to relationships and careers, leading to financial issues or driving licenses, and can even cause emotional distress for the person. It's normal for people to experience difficulties keeping their attention or staying organized from time to time. However, if the problem gets more severe and affects daily functioning, a healthcare provider may be able diagnose ADHD.
A health care professional must evaluate the person in two different situations, like at home and in school, or in social and workplace situations. They must observe the person in these settings for at least six months, and they must determine that the symptoms are significantly impairing their ability to function. The symptoms should also have started before 12 years old. Children who meet diagnostic criteria for hyperactivity/impulsivity or inattentive type of ADHD usually are fidgety, talkative and have excess energy that keeps them from sitting still. They are often in a hurry to finish their work and often interrupt or intrude upon other children.
Children with inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions, staying on task or sitting still. They are usually distracted by their thoughts or distracted by their surroundings. They are more likely to be missed and omit learning opportunities, particularly in the elementary school setting, which can set up for them to fail later in their lives.
The hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD is most common in children and involves the presence of at least six symptoms that include extreme restlessness, trouble with paying attention, constant movement or "on the go" behavior, excess energy and talkativeness. They have trouble sitting or waiting for their turn, blurt out answers before the questions are completed, and have difficulty managing their emotions.
It's it's a relief to get the diagnosis of ADHD but it's not always easy. It's fine to be embarrassed. However, honesty is the best policy. A diagnosis might be the first time someone realizes that their struggles are ascribed to. This understanding can alter the way they view themselves, which can then result in positive changes.
Diagnosis
When it comes to ADHD symptoms can manifest at different times in children and adults. In children, the symptoms usually begin in the first grade. For adults, it's a bit later. The signs may be mild, moderate or even severe. They can also be a combination of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity or more focused on one or the other. In some cases, the condition is not properly diagnosed. It could be a sign of autism or a mood disorder like anxiety or depression.
If your child or teen shows indications of ADHD The first step is to consult your doctor. They will conduct a physical examination, including audio and vision tests to ensure that there is nothing else wrong. You and your child will be asked to fill out an inventory of symptoms. They will ask what the effects of their symptoms are on their school and personal life. They'll also want to learn about any previous issues they've had.
For adults, a healthcare professional who's qualified to diagnose ADHD will use clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or checklists of symptoms to determine if they meet the requirements for diagnosis. They may also conduct psychological tests to measure your cognitive abilities as well as learn how you process information and think. They may also perform a brain scan using the Neuropsychiatric EEG Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is FDA-approved. (NEBA) which evaluates the activity of specific parts of your brain that control attention and impulsivity.
They will also look at your medical records to see whether there are any other mental disorders or injuries, for example thyroid or head trauma that could cause similar symptoms. They might refer you for a thorough evaluation to a psychologist or psychiatrist.
You must show six or more symptoms, which began in childhood or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms should have been present for at minimum 6 months and be causing significant problems with your daily functioning. Adults need to have a lower threshold to be diagnosed, however the same criteria apply: You need to have at least five or more symptoms, and these should affect your home, work and social life.
Treatment
The aim of treatment is to reduce symptoms and restore functioning at school, home and at work. There are many treatments available, including medications and behavior therapy. Many people have satisfaction with lifestyle changes, such as setting up a routine that is consistent by using a planner notebook, and scheduling tasks prior to time. Others might benefit from specific learning disability treatments, such as metacognitive therapy that helps them develop their abilities to manage their time and problem solving or cognitive behavioral therapy to correct the distortions in thinking that can cause negative moods and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who are specially trained in diagnosing ADHD can recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for a person's situation. iampsychiatry.com will evaluate the person's symptoms, and when they are an adult, their childhood and school experiences. They will use clinical interviewing, scales for assessing behavior, and symptom checklists in order to determine if a person is in compliance with ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also ask about family history of mental illnesses and physical illnesses. They will ask the person, their parents and teachers about their moods and behavior and about how they've changed over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the presence of six or more symptoms that begin before age 12 and can cause problems in two or more environments (home school, at home and social situations). The symptoms must be present for at minimum six months. In addition, the symptoms must be more severe than expected for someone of that age.
There aren't any brain scans or blood tests to determine ADHD, but a medical checkup usually is performed to ensure that there's nothing else wrong with the person. Doctors will review the patient's medical and psychiatric history and review their symptoms. They may also recommend an hearing or eye test. Some people with ADHD are genetically predisposed to this condition. Someone who has a sibling or parent with ADHD has an 85% chance of develop the disorder. It's also common to have a comorbid mood anxiety disorder with ADHD. These conditions can be more difficult to manage than ADHD by itself.
The following is a list of preventions.
Many things, such as medical conditions and certain kinds of learning disabilities could cause similar symptoms as those of ADHD. It is important to speak with an expert in mental health or a health care professional for an evaluation prior to making the diagnosis. This person will ask your child about their symptoms and how they impact their daily lives. They could use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child suffers from ADHD. They may also do physical examinations and tests for problems with vision or hearing. They can also request an EEG brain scan, which evaluates beta and theta wave activity to check on changes in your child's brain function.
Children diagnosed with ADHD must show symptoms that are more than what is normal for their age and development level. The symptoms of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity have to cause serious problems at home, at school or at work. The symptoms should also hinder your child's social interactions. If your child suffers from moderate or severe ADHD they will require medication in order to lead an ordinary life.
Children suffering from ADHD may have trouble following instructions and staying on track. This can result in poor grades and a lack of self-esteem. They may also have difficulty with social interactions as they are unable to read social cues and frequently interrupt others or come off as aggressive or intense. They are at a high risk for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Mild ADHD is manifests itself in symptoms that are evident but do not affect everyday life. It can making it difficult to maintain relationships or work. People who suffer from severe or moderate ADHD have more symptoms and are more likely to experience issues with their jobs, like difficulties in keeping jobs, interacting with colleagues or maintaining relationships.
People who do not receive treatment could face serious consequences. This could include financial problems and health issues, as well as legal issues. There are a number of treatments for ADHD, including behavioral therapy and psychosocial interventions such as diet and nutrition, exercise, sleeping improvements, and medication. NIMH has more information on these options and how to speak with your family about them.