Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms cause major difficulties at school, at work or home. Health care providers follow the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
A full assessment includes ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health care professionals also inquire about family history and look over old school records.
Symptoms
Symptoms of ADHD can affect a person's life at home, school or work. getting diagnosed with adhd can cause problems in relationships and careers, financial issues and even a driver's licence. They can also lead to emotional distress. It is common for people to experience difficulties in concentrating or staying organized at times. However, if the problem becomes chronic and interferes with the daily activities, a healthcare provider may be able diagnose ADHD.
To determine if someone is diagnosed with ADHD A health care professional must evaluate the person in at least two different environments, such as at home, school or work and social settings. The health care professional has to monitor the patient for a minimum of 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 usually unable to wait their turn and are often disruptive or disturb other children.
Children with the inattentive kind of ADHD are not able to sit or stand quietly and have trouble following instructions or staying on track. They tend to be wandering off or distracted. They're more prone to being left out and miss opportunities to learn, particularly in elementary school, which could make them vulnerable to 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 wait their turn or sitting still. They also have trouble managing their emotions.
It can be it's a relief to get a diagnosis of ADHD however, it's not always simple. People may feel ashamed, but they have to be honest so they can get the help they need. For some, a diagnosis will be the first time they've realized that their struggles have a name. This knowledge can allow them to change their perspective of themselves, which can lead to positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms manifest at different times in both adults and children. In children, symptoms usually begin in 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 cases the condition is misdiagnosed. It could be a sign of autism or a mood disorders like anxiety or depression.
If your child or teen is showing indications of ADHD, the first step is to talk to your doctor. They will conduct an examination of the body, including audio and vision to make sure that there is nothing else wrong. Your child and you will be asked to fill out a list of symptoms. They will also ask how the symptoms have affected their school and family life. They'll also ask to know about any previous problems.
For adults, a healthcare professional who's 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. Psychological tests may be used to determine your cognitive abilities, and how you process information and think. They could also conduct an examination of your brain using the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which evaluates the activity of specific areas of your brain that regulate attention and the ability to be impulsive.
They will also review your medical records to determine if there are any other mental disorders or injuries, for example thyroid issues or head trauma which can trigger similar symptoms. They may refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a thorough examination.
You must show six or more symptoms which began in childhood or before the age of 12. The symptoms must last at minimum six months and create significant problems for your daily functioning. Adults have the lower threshold for diagnosis, but the criteria are the same: You must have at least five symptoms that cause problems with your work, social and family life.
Treatment
The aim of treatment is to improve symptoms and improve functioning at home, school and work. There are a range of treatment options including medications and behavior therapy. Some people also have success with lifestyle changes, like creating a consistent routine by using a planner or notebook and scheduling tasks in advance. Some people might benefit from treatments for learning disabilities such as metacognitive therapy, which aids them in improving their problem-solving abilities and organizational skills or cognitive behavioral treatment which targets thinking distortions which can cause low self-esteem and negative moods.
Health professionals who have been specially trained in diagnosing 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 interviews, behavior rating scales and checklists of symptoms to determine if the person meets requirements for diagnosing ADHD. They might also inquire about the family history of mental illness and physical ailments. They'll ask the person as well as their parents and teachers about their moods and behaviors and how they've changed over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the presence of more than six symptoms that start before the age of 12 and cause difficulties in two or more environments (home school, at home and social situations). The symptoms must be present for at minimum six months. The symptoms must be more severe than what is normal for someone of this age.
There aren't any blood tests or brain scans to diagnose ADHD however a medical checkup usually is done to make sure there's no other issue with the individual. Doctors will examine the person's symptoms and medical and mental background and may recommend an eye exam or hearing test. Some people with ADHD are genetically predisposed to develop the disorder. Someone who has a sibling or parent with ADHD has an 85% chance of develop the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by a mood or anxiety disorder. These conditions can be more difficult to manage than ADHD alone.
The following is a list with preventions.
Many things, including 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 health care provider for an assessment prior to determining an assessment. The person you see will ask your child about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. They can use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child has ADHD. They may also do an examination and test for hearing or vision problems. They may also request an examination of the brain, known as an EEG, which measures theta and beta waves to determine if there are any changes in your child's brain function.
To be considered a child with ADHD they must display several symptoms that are more prominent than normal for their age or developmental level. Inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity must cause serious problems at home, school or at work. The symptoms can also impact your child's ability to interact with other children. If your child is suffering from moderate or severe ADHD They will require medication to live an ordinary life.
Children with ADHD are often unable to follow instructions and remain on task, which can lead to low self-esteem and grades. They may also struggle with social interactions because they have trouble reading social cues and frequently interrupt others or appear aggressive or abrasive. They are at a high risk for depression, anxiety and alcohol abuse.
Mild ADHD is manifests itself in symptoms that are apparent but do not hinder 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 suffer issues with their jobs, like difficulty keeping jobs, interacting with colleagues, or maintaining relationships.
People who don't receive treatment may suffer serious consequences. This includes financial issues and health issues, as well as legal issues. There are many treatment options for ADHD that include psychosocial and behavioral therapy, diet and nutrition, exercise, sleeping improvements, and medication. NIMH offers more information on these options and how to speak with your family about these options.