Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Adults are usually not diagnosed until they are experiencing major problems at work, home or at school. Health care professionals adhere to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
A full assessment includes ADHD symptom checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health care professionals also inquire about family history and review old school records.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can have a negative impact on the way a person lives their life regardless of whether they are at school, home or at work. They can cause problems in relationships and careers, financial issues or even a driver's permit. They can also trigger emotional anxiety. It's normal to have difficulty concentrating or staying organized from time time, but if it becomes an ongoing problem that affects daily functioning, a health care provider may be able to determine ADHD.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD A health care professional must evaluate the person in at minimum two different environments, such as the workplace, school, and social situations. The health care professional has to observe the person for a minimum of six months and determine whether the symptoms are impacting their ability to function. The symptoms must 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 have difficulty waiting for their turn, and frequently interfere with others or interrupt them.
Children with inattention ADHD have difficulty following instructions and staying focused or sitting still. They are usually daydreaming or easily distracted. They are more likely to be ignored and miss out on opportunities to learn, particularly in the early years of school, which could set them up for failure later in life.
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 are unable to sit or waiting for their turn, blurt out answers before the questions are finished and have trouble managing their emotions.
Being diagnosed with ADHD can be a relief but it's also difficult to comprehend. It's normal to be embarrassed. But, honesty is the best way to go. For some, it will be the first time they've realised that their struggles have a name. This understanding can allow them to change their perception of themselves, leading to positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms appear at different times in both adults and children. For kids, they typically begin in elementary school, but for adults, it's later. The signs could be mild, moderate or 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 related to autism or a mood disorder like anxiety or depression.
Speak to your doctor when your child or teen exhibits symptoms of ADHD. They will do physical examinations that includes hearing and vision, to make sure there's nothing else going on. They will ask you and your child to fill out an inventory of their symptoms. They'll want to know how their symptoms have impacted their home and school life. They will also want to learn about any previous issues they've faced.
For adults, a healthcare professional who's qualified to diagnose ADHD will conduct the process of conducting clinical interviews, as well as behavior rating scales or symptom checklists to determine whether they meet the criteria for diagnosis. They could also conduct psychological tests to assess your cognitive abilities and learn how you process information and think. They may also perform a brain scan using the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid, which is FDA-approved (NEBA), which analyzes the activity of specific areas of your brain that control the ability to focus and the ability to be impulsive.
In addition, they will examine your medical history to see whether you've suffered from any other mental health conditions or injuries like head trauma or thyroid issues which can trigger similar symptoms. They might refer you for an extensive evaluation with a psychiatrist or psychologist.
To get a diagnosis of ADHD it is necessary to have a minimum of six or more symptoms that began in childhood or before age 12. The symptoms should have been present for at least six months and cause significant problems in your daily functioning. Adults need to meet an upper threshold for diagnosis, however the criteria are the same: You must exhibit at minimum five symptoms that interfere with your work, social and personal life.
Treatment
Treatment is designed to reduce symptoms and restore function at home, work and school. There are a myriad of treatment options, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Many people have success with lifestyle changes, such as setting up a routine that is consistent by using a planner or notebook and scheduling tasks prior to time. Others may benefit from specific learning disabilities treatments, such as metacognitive therapy that helps to improve their abilities to manage their time and problem solving, or cognitive behavioral therapy to address thinking distortions that can lead to negative moods and low self-esteem.
Specially trained health care professionals can offer the best treatment plan based on the patient's specific situation. They will examine the person's symptoms and, when they are an adult, also their school and childhood experiences. how to get diagnosed with adhd as an adult will employ interviews with a psychologist, behavior rating scales and symptom checklists to determine whether the person meets requirements for diagnosing ADHD. They can also look up a family history of mental health issues as well as physical illnesses. They will ask about the person's moods and behaviors and how they have changed over time.
The diagnosis of ADHD is by analyzing six or more signs, which start before the age of 12 and create issues in at least two settings (at school, at home or in social situations). The symptoms must be present for at least six months. The symptoms should also be more severe than is normal for someone that age.
A medical checkup is usually carried out to confirm that the patient isn't suffering from any other health issues. Doctors will look over the patient's symptoms and medical and psychiatric history and may recommend an eye exam or a hearing test. Certain people suffering from ADHD are genetically predisposed to the condition. Anyone who has a parent or sibling with ADHD has an 85% chance of develop the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by mood or anxiety disorder. These conditions can be more difficult to manage than ADHD alone.
Prevention
Many things, including some medical conditions and certain kinds of learning disabilities can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. It is essential to talk to an expert in mental health or a health care professional for an evaluation prior to making a diagnosis. This person will ask your child about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. They can also use ratings scales or a checklist to decide if your child has ADHD. They may also do physical examinations and tests for hearing or vision problems. They may also request a brain scan called an EEG, which examines beta and theta waves to detect changes in your child's brain's function.
For children to be diagnosed with ADHD the child must exhibit a number of symptoms that are significantly more than what is normal for their age or developmental level. The symptoms of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity have to cause serious problems at school, at home or work. The symptoms also need to affect your child's social interactions. If your child is suffering from moderate or severe ADHD symptoms, they will need treatment with medication to lead an ordinary life.
Children suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to follow instructions and remain on task which can result in low self-esteem and poor grades. They may also struggle in social relationships because they are unable to read social cues. They are often disruptive to others and can appear aggressive or abrasive. They are susceptible to anxiety, depression, substance misuse, and issues with relationships.
Mild ADHD is manifests itself in symptoms that are apparent but do not hinder everyday life. It can make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. People with severe or moderate ADHD are more likely to experience symptoms and are more likely to have job-related problems, such as difficulties in keeping a job, getting along with coworkers, or maintaining relationships.
People who don't receive treatment could face serious consequences, including health issues, financial problems, and legal issues. There are a myriad of treatments available for ADHD. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions as well as nutrition and diet exercise, sleep improvement and even medications. NIMH offers more information on these options and how to speak with your family about them.