Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms cause major problems at work, school or home. Health professionals follow the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
A thorough assessment includes ADHD symptom lists and standardized scales for assessing behavior. 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 cause issues in relationships and careers, financial problems and even a driver's licence. They can also lead to emotional anxiety. It's normal to struggle with concentration or being organized from time to moment, but if it becomes an ongoing problem that affects daily functioning, a health specialist may be able diagnose ADHD.
To be able to diagnose someone with ADHD the health care professional must evaluate the person in at least two different settings, which could include the workplace, school, and social situations. The health care professional must observe the person for at least six months and determine whether the symptoms are affecting their ability to perform. The signs must also have begun before the age of 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 are often not able to wait for their turn and often interrupt or intrude upon other children.
Children with inattention ADHD have trouble following directions and staying on task, or sitting down. They are often distracted or snoozing. They're more likely to be overlooked and miss out on opportunities to learn, particularly in the early years of 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, blurt out answers before questions are completed, and have difficulty managing their emotions.
It's a relief to receive an diagnosis of ADHD, but it is not always simple. It's fine to be embarrassed. However honesty is the best policy. A diagnosis could be the first time people realize that their issues have a label. This understanding can alter the way they see themselves, which can then result in positive changes.
Diagnosis
When it comes to ADHD, symptoms show up at different times for kids and adults. In children, the symptoms usually begin in the middle of elementary school. For adults, it's a bit later. The symptoms can 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 instances the condition can be misdiagnosed as autism, or an anxiety disorder or depression.
If your child or teen shows signs of ADHD, the first step is to speak with your doctor. They will conduct a physical examination, including audio and vision tests to ensure that there is nothing else wrong. They will ask you and your child to fill out an inventory of their symptoms. They will want to know how the symptoms have impacted their home and school lives. They will also want you to share with them any previous issues.
For adhd diagnosis uk adults www.iampsychiatry.com , a healthcare professional who is certified to diagnose ADHD will use clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or symptom checklists to determine whether they meet the requirements for diagnosis. Psychological tests can be used to assess your cognitive abilities, and how you process information and think. They might also do a brain scan using the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid, which is FDA-approved (NEBA), which measures the activity of certain areas of your brain that control the ability to focus and impulsivity.
Additionally, they'll look at your medical history to see whether you've suffered from any other mental health problems or injuries like thyroid or head trauma that can cause similar symptoms. They might refer you for an extensive evaluation with a psychiatrist or psychologist.
You must have six or more symptoms, which began in your childhood or before the age of 12. The symptoms have to be present for at minimum six months and cause significant problems with your daily activities. Adults must meet a lower threshold for diagnosis, however the criteria are the same: You must have at minimum five symptoms that interfere with your work, social and personal life.
Treatment
Treatment aims to improve symptoms and restore functioning at work, home and school. There are a variety of treatments available, including medications and behavior therapy. Some people also have success through lifestyle changes, like establishing consistent routines by using a planner notebook and arranging tasks prior to time. Some people may benefit from learning disabilities therapies like metacognitive therapy which assists them in improving their problem-solving abilities and organizational skills or cognitive behavioral therapy that addresses the distortions in thinking which can cause depression and low self-esteem.
Health care professionals who are specially trained to recognize ADHD can suggest the most effective treatment for a person's situation. They will examine the person's current symptoms and, when they are an adult, their previous behavior and school experiences. They will use clinical interviewing, scales for assessing behavior and symptom checklists in order to determine if the individual meets ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also take an examination of a family history of mental health issues and physical ailments. They will ask about the person's moods, behaviors and how they have changed over time.
The diagnosis of ADHD is made by analyzing six or more symptoms, that begin before the age of 12 and can cause problems in at least two settings (at school, at home, or in social situations). The symptoms have to be present for at minimum six months. Additionally the symptoms should be significantly more difficult than expected for someone who is that old.
There are no blood tests or brain scans to determine ADHD, but a medical checkup usually is performed to ensure that there's no other issue with the person. Doctors will look over the patient's medical and psychiatric records and look over their symptoms. They may also suggest an hearing or eye test. Some people with ADHD are genetically predisposed to the disorder. If a person has a parent or a sibling with ADHD they are at risk of having 91% of the chance of developing the disorder for themselves. It's also common to have a comorbid mood anxiety disorder in conjunction with ADHD. These disorders can be harder to manage than ADHD by itself.
The following is a list of preventatives.
Many things, including some medical conditions and certain types of learning disabilities, can trigger similar symptoms to those of ADHD. It is essential to talk to a mental health professional or a health professional for an assessment prior to making a diagnosis. This person will ask about the symptoms of your child and how they impact their daily lives. They can also use ratings scales or a checklist to decide if your child has ADHD. They can also conduct an examination and test for visual or hearing problems. They may also request a brain scan called an EEG that measures theta and beta waves to determine if there are any changes in the brain function of your child.
To be able to diagnose a child with ADHD they must display a number of symptoms that are significantly more than what is normal for their age or development level. The signs of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity should cause a significant problem at school, at home or work. The symptoms can also impact your child's ability to interact with others. If your child is suffering from moderate or severe ADHD symptoms they will require treatment with medication to lead the normal life.
Children with ADHD may have difficulty following instructions and staying on track. This can result in lower grades and a loss of self-esteem. They may also have issues in social relationships because they are unable to read social cues. They often interrupt others and come across as aggressive or intense. They are at a high risk for depression, anxiety and substance abuse.
Mild ADHD is characterized by symptoms that are evident but do not hinder daily life. They can which makes it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate to severe ADHD are more likely to experience symptoms, and are more likely than others to have issues at work, such as difficulty keeping a job, or interacting with colleagues.
People who do not receive treatment could face serious consequences. This includes financial issues as well as health and legal issues. There are many treatments for ADHD. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions including nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement and even medications. NIMH provides more information about these options and how to discuss them with your family members.