Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults don't get diagnosed until their symptoms cause major issues at school, work or at 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 providers to diagnose mental disorders.
A thorough evaluation will include ADHD symptom lists and standardized behavior ratings scales. Health care professionals also inquire about family history and review old school records.
Symptoms
The symptoms of ADHD can affect the lives of a person at home, school or work. They can be disruptive to relationships and work, leading to financial issues or a driver's license and even create emotional distress for the person. It's normal for people to experience difficulties concentrating or staying organised at times. However when the issue gets more severe and affects everyday functioning, a medical provider may be able diagnose ADHD.
To be able to diagnose someone with ADHD, a healthcare professional must examine the patient in at least two different settings, which could include home and school or workplace and social situations. The health care professional has to observe the person for at least six months and determine if the symptoms are affecting their ability to perform. The signs must also have begun before the age of 12. 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 unable to wait for their turn, and frequently interfere with others or interrupt them.
Children who suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD are incapable of sitting or waiting quietly and have trouble following instructions or staying on task. They are often wandering off or distracted. They're more likely to be ignored and miss out on opportunities for learning, especially in elementary school, which could set them up for failure later on 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, blurting out answers before they are finished and have trouble managing their emotions.
It's a relief to receive the diagnosis of ADHD however, it's not always easy. Some people may be embarrassed, but they need to be honest so that they can receive the assistance they're entitled to. For some, a diagnosis will be the first time they've realized that their issues have a name. This understanding can alter the way they think about themselves, which can then result in positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms can manifest at different times in children and adults. For kids, they typically begin in the middle of elementary school, however for adults, it's a bit later. The symptoms can be mild, medium or severe. They can also be a combination of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity or more focused on one or the other. In some instances, the condition may be misdiagnosed as autistic or a mood disorder such as anxiety or depression.
If your child or teen is showing indications of ADHD The first step is to consult your doctor. They will do physical examinations that includes hearing and vision to ensure there isn't something else going on. Your child and you will be asked to complete a list of symptoms. They will want to know how the symptoms have affected their family and school life. They'll also ask you to tell them about any problems that you have had previously.
For adults, a healthcare provider who's qualified to diagnose ADHD will conduct the process of conducting clinical interviews, as well as behavior rating scales or checklists of symptoms to determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosis. They might also do psychological tests to gauge your cognitive abilities and discover how you process information and think. They could also conduct a brain scan using the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which evaluates the activity of specific parts of your brain that regulate the ability to focus and the ability to be impulsive.
Additionally, they'll review your medical history to determine whether you've experienced any other mental health issues or injuries, such as head trauma or thyroid issues that can cause similar symptoms. They might refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist to conduct a thorough assessment.
You must show six or more symptoms that began in childhood or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum 6 months and cause significant difficulties in your daily life. Adults must be able to meet a lower threshold in order to be diagnosed, however the same requirements apply: You must have a minimum of five or more symptoms, and these must interfere with your work, home and social life.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and restore functioning at school, home and at work. There are a variety of treatment options, including medications and behavior therapy. Some people experience success by making lifestyle changes such as using a planner, a notebook and arranging tasks in advance. Others may benefit from specific learning disability treatments, like metacognitive therapy that helps them develop their ability to organize their lives and solve problems as well as cognitive behavioral therapy to deal with the distortions in thinking which can lead to low moods and low self-esteem.
Health care professionals who are specifically trained to diagnose ADHD can recommend the most appropriate treatment for a person's situation. They will look at the person's current symptoms and, in the case of an adult, their previous behaviour and schooling experiences. They will use clinical interviewing, behavior rating scales, and symptom checklists in order to determine if a person has the ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also ask about family history of mental illness and physical conditions. They will ask the person as well as their parents and teachers about their moods and behavior and how they've changed over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the presence of six or more signs that start before age 12 and can cause problems in two or more settings (home, school and social situations). The symptoms must have been present for at least 6 months. In addition the symptoms must be significantly more difficult than expected for someone of that age.
adhd diagnosis in adults is usually carried out to confirm that the person doesn't have any other health problems. Doctors will review the person's symptoms and medical and psychiatric history, and may suggest an eye exam or hearing test. Some people who suffer from ADHD are genetically predisposed to the condition. Someone who has a sibling or parent with ADHD has an 85% chance of develop the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by anxiety or mood disorder. These disorders can be harder to manage than ADHD alone.
Prevention
Many things, such as medical conditions and certain types of learning disabilities can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. It is therefore important to consult an expert in health care or a mental health professional for an evaluation before making a diagnosis. This person will ask about the symptoms of your child and how they impact their daily lives. They may also utilize scoring scales or a checklist to determine if your child is suffering from ADHD. They can also conduct a physical examination and test for visual or hearing problems. They may also order an EEG brain scan, which measures beta and theta waves to check on changes in your child's brain function.
To be able to diagnose a child with ADHD the child must exhibit a number of symptoms that are noticeably greater than what is normal for their age or developmental level. Inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity must cause serious issues at home, school, or work. The symptoms must also interfere with your child's social interactions. If your child is suffering from severe or moderate ADHD, they will require medication in order to lead an ordinary life.
Children suffering from ADHD are often unable to follow directions and remain focused which can result in low self-esteem and poor grades. They may also have issues in social relationships because they are unable to read social signals. They often interrupt others and come across as violent or intense. They are at risk for depression, anxiety and substance abuse.
Mild ADHD is defined by symptoms that are evident but do not affect daily life. They can making it difficult to maintain relationships or work. The people with moderate or severe ADHD will have more symptoms, and are more likely than other people to have issues at work, including difficulties keeping a job or getting along with colleagues.
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. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions as well as nutrition and diet exercise, sleep improvement, and medications. NIMH offers more information on these options and how to talk with your family members about them.