Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults don't get diagnosed until their symptoms create major issues at school, work or at home. Health care professionals adhere to the diagnostic criteria in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
A thorough assessment includes ADHD symptoms lists and standardized scales for assessing behavior. Health care professionals also ask about family history and review old school records.
Symptoms
ADHD symptoms can affect the way a person lives their life regardless of whether they are at school, home or work. They can cause problems in relationships and careers, financial difficulties and even a driver's license. They can also cause emotional anxiety. It's normal for everyone to struggle with concentration or staying organized from time to time however, if it becomes a chronic problem and hinders everyday functioning, a health specialist may be able identify ADHD.
A health care professional must evaluate the individual in two different situations, like at home and at school, as well as in workplace and social settings. The health care professional must observe the person for a minimum of six months and determine whether the symptoms are affecting their ability to perform. The symptoms must also have started before 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 frequently interrupt or interfere with others.
Children with the inattentive kind of ADHD are unable to sit or wait in silence and are unable to follow instructions or staying focused. They tend to be distracted or snoozing. They are more likely to be overlooked and omit 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 difficulty sitting or waiting for their turn, blurting out answers before the questions are completed, and have difficulty controlling their emotions.
It's an exhilarating experience to receive a diagnosis of ADHD but it's not always an easy process. It's okay to feel embarrassed. However honesty is the best policy. For some, a diagnosis will be the first time they've realised that their issues have a name. Understanding this can change the way they view themselves, which may cascade into positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms appear at different times in children and adults. In children, the symptoms usually begin in elementary school. For adults, it is somewhat 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 some cases, the condition is not properly diagnosed. It could be autism or a mood disorder like anxiety or depression.
Talk to your doctor if your child or teenager shows indications of ADHD. They will conduct an examination of the body, including audio and vision to make sure that there is no other issue. adhd adults diagnosis and your child will be asked to write the list of symptoms. They will ask how the symptoms have affected their school and home life. They'll also want you to share with them any problems that you have had previously.
For adults, a healthcare provider who is qualified 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 could also conduct psychological tests to assess your cognitive abilities and discover how you think and process information. They can also conduct a brain scan with the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA), a tool that measures the activity of certain parts of the brain that regulate your attention and your impulsivity.
They will also look at your medical records to see whether there are any additional mental health issues or injuries, for example thyroid or head trauma which can trigger similar symptoms. They may refer you for a thorough evaluation to psychiatrists or psychologists.
You must be suffering from six or more symptoms, which began in childhood or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms must last at least six months, and cause significant difficulties with your daily functioning. Adults must be able to meet a lower threshold in order to be diagnosed, but the same criteria apply: You must have at least five or more symptoms and they must affect your work, home and social life.
Treatment
The aim of treatment is to reduce symptoms and restore functioning at school, home and at work. There are many different treatment options, such as medication and behavioral therapy. Some people find satisfaction by making lifestyle changes such as using an organizer, a notebook and arranging tasks in advance. Certain people might benefit from treatments for learning disabilities such as metacognitive therapy, which aids them in improving their problem-solving abilities and organizational abilities, or cognitive behavioral treatment, which addresses thinking distortions which can cause depression and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who are specifically trained to diagnose ADHD can recommend the best treatment plan for a person's situation. They will assess the patient's present symptoms and, if an adult, their previous behaviors and school experiences. They will conduct clinical interviews, behavior ratings scales and symptoms checklists to determine if the person has met the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. They can also look up an examination of a family history of mental health issues and physical illnesses. They will ask about the person's moods, behavior and how they've changed over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the presence of six or more signs that begin before age 12 and create difficulties in two or more settings (home school, social situations). The symptoms have to be present for at least six months. how to get diagnosed with adhd as an adult should also be more severe than what is normal for someone of this age.
A medical exam is usually done to ensure that the person isn't suffering from any other health issues. Doctors will review the person's symptoms and medical and mental history and may recommend an eye exam or a hearing test. Some people who suffer from ADHD are genetically predisposed to the condition. Someone who has a parent or sibling with ADHD has a 91% chance of develop the disorder. It's also normal to suffer from a comorbid mood disorder or anxiety disorder in conjunction with ADHD. These disorders can be harder to manage than ADHD alone.
The following is a list with preventions.
Many things, including some medical conditions and some kinds 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 prior to determining the diagnosis. The person you see will inquire about the symptoms of your child and how they impact their daily life. They may use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child has ADHD. They may also perform an examination and test for visual or hearing problems. They may also order an EEG brain scan that analyzes beta and theta waves to determine changes in your child's brain function.
Children who are diagnosed with ADHD should exhibit symptoms that are significantly greater than the norm for their age and development level. Hyperactivity, inattention, and/or an impulsive behavior can create serious problems at school, home or at work. The symptoms must also hinder your child's social interactions. If your child suffers from severe or moderate ADHD they will require medication to lead an ordinary life.
Children with ADHD may have trouble following instructions and staying on track. This can result in lower grades and a loss of self-esteem. They may also have difficulties with social relationships because they struggle to discern social cues and often interrupt others or come off as aggressive or abrasive. They are susceptible to anxiety, depression as well as substance abuse and relationship issues.
Mild ADHD is defined by symptoms that are evident but do not affect everyday life. It can make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate or severe ADHD have more symptoms and are more likely to have problems with work, for example, difficulties in keeping an occupation, getting along with colleagues or maintaining relationships.
People who do not receive treatment could face serious consequences. This could include financial problems, health issues, and legal issues. There are a number of treatments for ADHD which include psychosocial and behavioral therapy, diet and nutrition, exercise sleep improvements, and medications. NIMH offers more information on these options and how you can discuss them with your family members.