Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults don't get diagnosed until their symptoms create major difficulties at school, at work or at home. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) is utilized by health professionals to diagnose mental disorders.
A thorough evaluation will include ADHD symptoms lists and standardized scales for assessing behavior. Health care professionals ask about the family history and review old school records.
Signs and symptoms
The symptoms of ADHD can affect the lives of a person at school, at home or at work. They can lead to problems in relationships and careers, financial difficulties and even a driver's license. They can also trigger emotional stress. It's normal for everyone to struggle with concentration or being organized from time to time, but if it becomes an ongoing problem that affects daily functioning, a medical professional may be able to identify ADHD.
A health care professional must assess the person in two different situations, like at home and in school, as well as in social and workplace situations. The health care professional has to monitor the patient for a minimum of six months and determine if the symptoms are affecting their ability to function. The signs must also be present prior to the age of 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 usually unable to wait their turn, and they interrupt or disturb others.
Children with the inattentive type of ADHD are unable to sit or wait at a comfortable pace and have difficulty following instructions or staying focused. They're usually daydreaming, forgetful or easily distracted by their surroundings. They are more likely to be missed and miss out on opportunities to learn, particularly in the elementary school setting which could set for failure later on 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 difficulty waiting their turn or settling down. They also have difficulty controlling their emotions.
It can be an exhilarating experience to receive an diagnosis of ADHD however, it's not always an easy process. Some people may be embarrassed, but they need to be honest so that they receive the help they're entitled to. For some, a diagnosis will be the first time they've realized their issues have a name. Having this understanding can change the way they see themselves, which can then result in positive changes.
Diagnosis
When it is about ADHD symptoms are evident at different times for kids and adults. For children, symptoms typically begin in the middle of elementary school, however for adults, it's later. Symptoms can 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 disorder is misdiagnosed. It could be a sign of autism or a mood disorders like anxiety or depression.
Speak to your doctor if your child or teenager exhibits symptoms of ADHD. They will do physical examinations, including vision and hearing to ensure there isn't something else going on. They will ask you and your child to complete an inventory of their symptoms. They will also ask how the symptoms have affected their school and family life. They'll also want to learn about any previous issues they've faced.
For adults, a medical professional who is certified to diagnose ADHD will use the process of conducting clinical interviews, as well as behavior rating scales or symptom checklists to determine whether they meet the requirements for diagnosis. Psychological tests can be used to evaluate your cognitive abilities and how you think and process information. They may also perform a brain scan with the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a device that measures the activity in certain brain regions that regulate your attention and the impulsivity.
Additionally, they'll examine your medical history to determine if you've had any other mental health issues or injuries, such as head trauma or thyroid conditions which can trigger similar symptoms. They may refer you for a thorough evaluation to a psychologist or psychiatrist.
You must show six or more symptoms, which started in your childhood or before the age of 12. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months and be causing significant problems with your daily functioning. Adults must meet a lower threshold to be diagnosed, but the same requirements apply: You must have at least five or more symptoms and they must affect your work, home and social life.
Treatment
Treatment is designed to reduce symptoms and restore function at home, work and school. There are many different treatments available, including medication and behavioral therapy. Some people also have success with lifestyle changes, for example, setting up a routine that is consistent, using a planner or notebook and scheduling tasks ahead of time. Other people may benefit from specific learning disability treatments, such as metacognitive training that helps them improve their abilities to manage their time and problem solving as well as cognitive behavioral therapy to address the distortions in thinking which can lead to low moods and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who have been specially trained to recognize ADHD can recommend the best treatment plan for a person's situation. They will look at the person's present symptoms and, if an adult, their childhood behaviour and schooling experiences. They will conduct clinical interviews, behavior rating scales and symptoms checklists to determine if the person meets diagnostic criteria for ADHD. They may also take an examination of a family history of mental health issues and physical illnesses. They'll ask the individual, their parents and teachers about their moods and behaviors and how they've changed over time.
The diagnosis of ADHD is made upon six or more signs, which start before 12 years of age and cause issues in at minimum 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 expected for someone that age.
A medical checkup is typically done to ensure that the patient does not have any other health issues. Doctors will look over the patient's medical and psychiatric history and look over their symptoms. They may also recommend an eye or hearing test. Certain people suffering from ADHD have a genetic predisposition to develop the condition. Someone who has a sibling or parent with ADHD has a 91% chance to develop the disorder. It is also common to have a comorbid mood anxiety disorder that is associated with ADHD. These disorders are more difficult to treat than ADHD by itself.
Prevention
Many things, including medical conditions and some types of learning disabilities, could cause similar symptoms as those of ADHD. It is therefore important to consult a health care provider or a mental health professional to conduct an evaluation before making an assessment. This person will ask about your child's issues and how they affect their daily life. They can use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child has ADHD. They may also perform a physical examination and test for hearing or visual issues. They can also request a brain scan called an EEG, which measures theta and beta waves to detect changes in your child's brain function.
To be able to diagnose a child with ADHD they must display a number of symptoms that are significantly more than the norm for their age or developmental level. Inattention, hyperactivity, or an impulsive behavior can create serious problems at home, school, or work. The symptoms also need to interfere with your child's social interactions. If your child is suffering from moderate or severe ADHD symptoms and needs treatment, they'll need to be treated with medication in order to live the normal life.
Children with ADHD may have trouble following instructions and staying on track. This can lead to lower grades and a loss of self-esteem. They may also struggle with social interactions because they are unable to read social cues and often interrupt others or come off as aggressive or abrasive. They are at risk of depression, anxiety as well as substance abuse and relationship issues.
Mild ADHD is manifests itself in symptoms that are visible but do not affect daily life. They can making it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate or severe ADHD are more prone to symptoms and are more likely to have problems with work, for example, having difficulty retaining jobs, interacting with coworkers or maintaining relationships.
If diagnose adhd do not seek treatment could face serious consequences. These include financial problems, health issues, and legal issues. There are a variety of treatments for ADHD. These include psychosocial interventions as well as nutrition and diet exercise, sleep improvement, and medications. NIMH has more information on these options and how to talk with your family members about these options.