Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms cause serious problems at work, school or home. 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 complete evaluation will include ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales. Health care professionals will inquire about the family's history and look at the school records from the past.
Symptoms
Symptoms of ADHD can affect the lives of a person at home, school or work. They can cause problems in relationships and careers, financial issues and even a driver's licence. They can also lead to emotional stress. It's normal for people to have difficulty in concentrating or staying organized at times. However, if the problem gets more severe and affects the daily activities, a healthcare 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, including at home, school or work and social situations. The health professional must be observing the person for at least six months and determine whether the symptoms are impacting their ability to function. The symptoms must also have started before 12 years. 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 their turn and often interrupt or interfere with others.
Children with inattentive ADHD have trouble following directions, staying on task or sitting still. They are often distracted or snoozing. They are more likely to be ignored, and miss out on learning opportunities, particularly in elementary schools which could set them for failure 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 difficulty waiting their turn or settling down. They also have difficulty controlling their emotions.
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD can be a relief but it's also difficult to comprehend. It's okay to feel embarrassed. However honesty is the best way to go. For some, a diagnosis will be the first time they've realized that their issues have a name. This understanding can help them change their perception of themselves, which can lead to positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms can manifest at different times in both adults and children. For children, they usually begin in the middle of elementary school, however for adults it's a little later. The signs may 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 certain cases the condition can be misdiagnosed as autism or an anxiety disorder or depression.
If your child or teenager shows symptoms of ADHD the first step is to talk to your doctor. They will conduct a physical examination, including audio and vision to make sure that there is no other issue. They will ask you and your child to fill out a checklist of their symptoms. They will inquire about what the effects of their symptoms are on their school and home life. They will also want to know about any problems that you have had previously.
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a medical professional qualified to do so. They will utilize clinical interviews, behavior rating scales or symptoms checklists. They might also do psychological tests to measure your cognitive abilities and discover how you think and process information. They could also conduct an examination of your brain using the Neuropsychiatric EEG Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is FDA-approved. (NEBA), which evaluates the activity of specific areas of your brain that regulate attention and the ability to be impulsive.
They will also look at your medical records to determine whether there are any other mental health issues or injuries, like thyroid or head trauma that could cause similar symptoms. They may refer you for thorough evaluation by a psychiatrist or psychologist.
To get a diagnosis of ADHD you must exhibit a minimum of six or more signs that started in childhood, or prior to age 12. The symptoms have to be present for at least six months and cause significant difficulties with your daily activities. Adults need to meet an upper threshold for diagnosis, but the criteria are the same: You must have at least five symptoms that interfere with your social, work and personal life.
Treatment
Treatment aims to ease symptoms and improve functioning at work, home and at school. There are a range of treatments available, including medication and behavior therapy. Some people experience satisfaction by making lifestyle changes like using a planner, a notebook and scheduling their tasks in advance. Certain people might benefit from treatments for learning disabilities like metacognitive therapy which helps them improve their problem-solving abilities and organizational skills, or cognitive behavioral treatment, which addresses thinking distortions, leading to depression and low self-esteem.
Health care professionals who are specially trained to recognize ADHD can recommend the best treatment plan for a patient's situation. They will look at the person's symptoms and, if they are an adult, they will also consider their childhood and school experiences. They will use clinical interviewing, scales for assessing behavior, and symptom checklists to determine if the person has the ADHD diagnostic criteria. They might also inquire about the family history of mental illness and physical illnesses. They will inquire about the person's moods and behaviors and changes over time.
The diagnosis of ADHD is made upon six or more symptoms which begin before the age of 12 and cause problems in at least two settings (at home, school or social situations). The symptoms must have been present for at least six months. In addition the symptoms should be significantly more troublesome than what is expected for a person of that age.
There aren't any brain scans or blood tests to diagnose ADHD, but a medical checkup usually is done to make sure there's nothing else wrong with the individual. Doctors will review the person's symptoms and medical and mental history, and may suggest an eye exam or a hearing test. adhd diagnosis uk adult 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 a anxiety or mood disorder. These disorders are more difficult to treat than ADHD alone.
The following is a list of preventatives.
Many things, including some medical conditions and some kinds of learning disabilities can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. It is important to speak with a mental health professional or health care provider for an assessment prior to determining a diagnosis. The professional will inquire with your child about their symptoms and how they impact their daily lives. They may use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child has ADHD. They may also do a physical exam and test for hearing or vision problems. They may also request an EEG brain scan which analyzes beta and theta waves to determine changes in your child's brain function.
Children who are diagnosed with ADHD must show symptoms that are more than what is normal for their age and development level. Hyperactivity, inattention, and/or impulsivity must cause serious problems at home, school or at work. The symptoms must also affect your child's social interactions. If your child is suffering from moderate or severe ADHD they will require medication in order to lead an ordinary life.
Children suffering from ADHD might have trouble following directions and staying focused. This can result in poor grades and a lack of self-esteem. They may also struggle with social interactions, since they aren't able to discern social signals. They often interrupt others and come across as aggressive or abrasive. They are at risk for anxiety, depression, substance misuse, and relationship issues.
Mild ADHD is defined by symptoms that are visible but do not interfere in daily life, making it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate or severe ADHD have more symptoms and are more likely to have job-related problems, such as having difficulty retaining an occupation, getting along with coworkers, or maintaining relationships.
People who don't receive treatment could face serious consequences, including health issues, financial troubles, and legal issues. There are many treatments available for ADHD that include psychosocial therapy and behavioral therapy such as diet and nutrition, exercise medication for sleep, and other treatments. NIMH provides more details about these options and ways to discuss them with your family.