ADHD Diagnosis
Children with ADHD are unable to sit still paying attention and acting recklessly. The symptoms of ADHD have been evident for at least six months and are much more severe than expected for their age.
Experts use questionnaires interviews with parents and teachers, and school performance reports to determine ADHD. They also consider a patient's history and any other mental health conditions.
Diagnosing ADHD
A diagnosis can be a source of relief for people with ADHD. It can also provide a sense of acceptance. A diagnosis can be emotionally draining particularly for those who do not plan to take medication as part of their treatment.
A specialist who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD will go over your child's or your own's history and symptoms. They will inquire about the onset of symptoms and if they've become worse over time. They'll also assess your child's or your own development, mental health and lifestyle. They may also interview coaches, teachers or other adults who are familiar with your child.
The goal is to determine whether you or your child's symptoms that match the criteria laid out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - Fifth Edition (DSM-V)1. This includes six or more ADHD-related symptoms that affect daily functioning, and are not explained by any other factor such as problems at home or school, poor nutrition or sleep disorders.
In addition to the DSM-V criteria, your doctor will consider your or your child's past behavior and performance. They'll take note of the length of time you or your child take to complete tasks and if they tend to make erroneous mistakes or are unable to sit still. They'll also look into whether you or your child have an history of depression, anxiety or mood disorders, which are often associated with ADHD.
Other factors that can influence the results of an ADHD evaluation are whether you or your child has an history of physical trauma or birth-related complications, or an abnormal thyroid gland. They'll also look for signs of other illnesses like bipolar disorder or learning disabilities.
During a face-to-face ADHD assessment, you or your child might take one of the ADHD tests, like the Neuropsychiatric-EEG Based Assessment Aid System (NEBA). The instrument examines brain wave patterns and is affixed for children ages 6 to 17. It is important to remember that ADHD testing is only a small part of a comprehensive assessment.
ADHD symptoms
People suffering from ADHD have a different way of using brain networks that send and relay messages. They aren't able to focus their attention or managing their behavior. This can cause issues at home as well as in school. They also tend to make decisions without considering the consequences or the needs of others. They often make careless mistakes at work and at school. If symptoms persist for more than 6 months and interfere with daily life at school and community, the disorder is diagnosed.
Doctors use ADHD symptom checklists and standardized behavior ratings scales to determine if a person fits the criteria needed to diagnose. Patients are often asked to describe their issue in their own words. They can also ask people who have a relationship with the patient, for example, spouse or a sibling for adults, or a teacher or coach when they are children. These interviews can offer valuable information that cannot be gathered from questionnaires or tests.
The signs of ADHD are present at any age however, the condition typically begins in childhood. Doctors should consider a patient's problems from their childhood when determining a diagnosis. adhd diagnosis adult may ask to see old school records or speak to the patient's parents or teachers about their symptoms as a child.
Many adults with ADHD aren't diagnosed because they reacted to their issues as children by using strategies or tricks to learn. When they are struggling to balance work with family, work, and other obligations, their symptoms can become more evident. Women and girls are able to hide their symptoms more effectively than men and boys. This makes diagnosis more difficult.
Researchers believe that even though the exact cause of ADHD has not been determined but genetics and environmental factors may contribute to the development of the disorder. Prenatal exposure to nicotine, alcohol, or other substances may increase the likelihood of developing the disorder. Early loss of attachment and trauma can also cause the disorder. The symptoms are caused by chemical changes in the nervous system that occur during critical developmental periods.
Medication for ADHD
In a typical assessment an expert in health care will interview you or your child. They will ask questions about the symptoms that you or your child are experiencing, the frequency at which they occur, and what issues they can cause in your life. They may also speak to other people, like family members, teachers and coaches, in order to get more insight into your child's or your child's behavior.
The doctor may refer to the list of ADHD symptoms to determine if you or your child meet the diagnostic criteria for this disorder. They will also take into account other disorders like anxiety and mood disorders which can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD.
Adults with ADHD who are diagnosed with the disorder typically receive prescription medication to manage their symptoms. Stimulants, including products that contain methylphenidate and amphetamine are believed to increase and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. In certain adults, these drugs can also improve their ability to think clearly and make good decisions. Nonstimulants, like atomoxetine and antidepressants, are other options. These drugs are not as potent as stimulants, however they are effective for children who are unable to take stimulants due to medical conditions or severe side effects.
The treatment of children who suffer from ADHD is dependent on the parents actively participating in therapy sessions. Parents learn how to better communicate with their child and support them at home and at school. Therapists can also teach parents stress management techniques and parenting skills that can help them deal with the demands of children with ADHD.
Some people with ADHD have psychiatric issues that are co-occurring, such as depression and anxiety, which require treatment in conjunction with the ADHD symptoms. Because of this, an experienced psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in treating ADHD frequently works in conjunction with a mental health specialist who can treat these coexisting conditions. Therapists can help those with ADHD learn coping and organizational skills that will improve their relationships and overall quality. They may also recommend classes that teach problem-solving and social skills.
Treatment for ADHD
There are many different treatment options available for ADHD for both adults and children. Your doctor will assist you to determine the best treatment plan for either your child or adult. Treatment options include counseling for families, medication therapy and behavioral therapy. Psychoeducation and support groups can also be helpful.
Your doctor will evaluate your child's symptoms and history to determine whether they have ADHD. They may ask about your child's behavior at school, at home and social situations. They will also assess your child's mood and medical history, and search for other conditions which can cause signs of ADHD such as sleep apnea and seizure disorders.
The most well-known type of ADHD is one that is marked by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. This type is more common in children who are young. It's easy to spot because these kids fidget a lot and talk a lot and have trouble sitting still. They struggle to focus at school, as well as in other settings, like family and community activities.
It isn't easy to recognize other forms of ADHD because they manifest in different ways. Adults may exhibit inattention but not the hyperactivity and the impulsivity that is seen in younger people. Adults with these traits may struggle to keep their jobs or keeping up in their work or may become overwhelmed and have difficulty with relationships.
Some people suffering from ADHD are also prone to anxiety or depression. They require a different treatment plan that includes psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy). It is crucial that your mental health professional assesses these other symptoms as well as the ADHD symptoms.
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD. They can be administered by inhalation or via a nasal spray (liquid) or patch. Most people are protected from any adverse side effects. However, some individuals might experience a slowing of their pulse rate, less appetite, or a worsening mood.
Other supplements and medications may help people suffering from ADHD. These include omega-3 fatty acids as well as vitamins C andE. They can help improve concentration and reduce irritation.