Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults don't get diagnosed until their symptoms cause serious difficulties at school, at work or home. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) is used by health care professionals to diagnose mental disorders.
A thorough evaluation will include ADHD symptom lists and standardized behavior ratings scales. Health care professionals ask about the family's history and examine the school records from the past.
Symptoms
The symptoms of ADHD can impact the way a person lives at home, school or work. They can be disruptive to relationships and careers, leading to financial issues or a driver's license, and even create emotional distress for the person. It's normal to struggle with concentration or staying organized from time time but if it develops into an ongoing issue that hinders everyday functioning, a health professional may be able to diagnose ADHD.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD A health care professional must evaluate the person in at minimum two different settings, including the workplace, school, and social situations. The health care professional has to be observing the person for at least six month and determine whether the symptoms are affecting their ability to function. The symptoms should also have begun before the age 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 a difficult time waiting for their turn and often interrupt or interfere with others.
Children with inattentive ADHD have trouble following directions, staying on task or sat down. They are usually daydreaming or easily distracted. They are more likely to be overlooked, and miss out on learning opportunities, particularly in elementary schools which could prepare 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 a difficult time waiting for their turn or sitting still. They also have trouble managing their emotions.
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD can be a relief however, it's difficult to comprehend. It's okay to feel embarrassed. But honesty is the best policy. For some, a diagnosis will be the first time they've realised that their problems have a. This knowledge can help them change the way they view themselves, leading to positive changes.
Diagnosis
When it comes to ADHD symptoms are evident at different times in children and adults. For kids, they typically begin in the middle of elementary school, however for adults it's a little later. The symptoms 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 disorders like depression or anxiety.
Consult your doctor If your child or teenager shows symptoms of ADHD. They will do a physical exam, including vision and hearing, to make sure there isn't something else going on. Your child and you will be asked to complete the list of symptoms. They will want to know how their symptoms have affected their family and school life. They'll also want you to share with them any previous issues.
For adults, a healthcare provider who is certified to diagnose ADHD will use clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or checklists for symptoms to determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosis. They may also conduct psychological tests to assess your cognitive abilities and discover how you think and process information. They could also conduct an examination of your brain using the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid, which is FDA-approved (NEBA), which analyzes the activity of specific parts of your brain that control attention and the ability to be impulsive.
adhd undiagnosed in adults will also review your medical records to determine whether there are any other mental health issues or injuries, like thyroid or head trauma which can trigger similar symptoms. They may refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a thorough examination.
To get a diagnosis of ADHD, you must have at least six or more symptoms that began in your childhood or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum 6 months and cause significant problems with your daily functioning. Adults must meet a lower threshold for diagnosis, but the criteria are the same: You must have at least five symptoms that interfere with your work, social and family life.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to alleviate symptoms and restore functioning at school, home and at work. There are many different treatment options, such as medication and therapy for behavior. Some people have success by making lifestyle changes like using an organizer, a notebook and scheduling their tasks in advance. Others may benefit from specific learning disabilities therapies, such as metacognitive therapy that helps them improve their organizational skills and problem-solving abilities as well as cognitive behavioral therapy to correct thinking distortions that can cause negative moods and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who are specially trained in diagnosing ADHD can suggest the most effective treatment plan for a patient's situation. They will evaluate the person's symptoms and, when they are an adult, also their school and childhood experiences. They will conduct clinical interviews, behavior rating scales and symptom checklists to determine whether the person meets diagnostic criteria for ADHD. They may also inquire about the family history of mental illnesses and physical illnesses. They'll ask the individual or their parents as well as teachers about their moods, behaviors and attitudes 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 settings (home school, social situations). The symptoms have to be present for at minimum six months. In addition the symptoms must be significantly more difficult than what is expected for a person at that age.
A medical exam is usually done to ensure that the patient doesn't have any other health issues. Doctors will look over the patient's medical and psychiatric histories and look over their symptoms. They may also suggest an hearing or eye test. Some people who suffer from ADHD are genetically predisposed to the condition. A person who has a parent or sibling with ADHD has a 91% chance to develop the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by mood or anxiety disorder. These disorders can be harder to treat than ADHD alone.
The following is a list of preventatives.
Many things, including medical conditions and certain types of learning disabilities can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. So it's important to see a health care provider or a mental health professional for an evaluation prior to determining a diagnosis. The person you see will ask your child about their symptoms and how they impact their daily lives. They can use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child is ADHD. They can also conduct a physical examination and test for hearing or visual issues. They can also request a brain scan, also known as an EEG that examines beta and theta waves to determine if there are any changes in the brain function of your child.
Children who are diagnosed with ADHD must show symptoms that are significantly greater than the norm for their age and development level. The signs of inattention, impulsivity and/or hyperactivity must cause significant problems at home, school or at work. The symptoms must also interfere with your child's social interactions. If your child suffers from moderate or severe ADHD They will require medication to lead a normal life.
Children suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to follow directions and remain on task, which can lead to low self-esteem and poor grades. They may also have difficulties with social interactions because they are unable to read social cues and frequently interrupt others or appear violent or aggressive. They are at risk of developing depression, anxiety, and alcohol abuse.
People with mild ADHD have symptoms that are noticeable but do not affect their daily life or make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate or severe ADHD are more likely to experience symptoms and are more likely to experience issues with their jobs, like having difficulty retaining an occupation, getting along with colleagues or maintaining relationships.
People who do not receive treatment may face serious consequences. This could include financial problems, health issues, and legal issues. There are a variety of treatments for ADHD which include behavioral therapy and psychosocial interventions including diet and nutrition, exercise, medication for sleep, and other treatments. NIMH has more information on these options and how you can talk with your family members about them.