Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms create major problems at work, school or home. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) is used by health care providers to diagnose mental disorders.
A thorough evaluation will include ADHD symptom lists and standardized behavior ratings scales. Health professionals inquire about the family's history, and review the school records from the past.
Symptoms
ADHD symptoms can impact the way a person lives their life, whether it is at school, home or at work. They can be disruptive to relationships and work, leading to serious financial problems or a driver's license, and can cause emotional stress for the person. It's normal to have difficulty concentrating or being organized from time to moment but if it develops into a chronic problem and affects daily functioning, a medical provider may be able to diagnose ADHD.
A health professional will need to evaluate the person in two distinct situations, like at home and at school, as well as in social and workplace situations. They must observe the person in these settings for a minimum of six months and must see that the symptoms are impairing their ability to function. The symptoms must be present prior to 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 have a difficult time waiting for their turn, and frequently interrupt or intrude on others.
Children who suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD are incapable of sitting or waiting at a comfortable pace and have difficulty following instructions or staying on track. They tend to be distracted, forgetful or easily distracted by their surroundings. They're more prone to being overlooked and miss out on opportunities to learn, especially in the early years of school, which can set them up for failure later 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 have a difficult time waiting for their turn or staying still. They also have trouble controlling their emotions.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief, but it's not always easy to accept. People might be embarrassed, but they need to be honest so they can receive the assistance they need. A diagnosis could be the first time that someone has realized their struggles are ascribed to. This understanding will help them alter their perspective of themselves, leading to positive changes.
Diagnosis
When it is about ADHD symptoms can manifest at different times for kids and adults. For kids, they typically begin in the middle of elementary school, however for adults it's a little later. Symptoms could 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 a sign of autism or a mood disorder like anxiety or depression.
If your child or teenager shows symptoms of ADHD the first step is to consult your doctor. They will perform an examination that includes vision and audio to ensure that there is nothing else wrong. Your child and you will be asked to complete a list of symptoms. They will inquire about how the symptoms have affected their school and family life. They'll also ask you to share with them any problems that you have had previously.
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a healthcare provider qualified to do so. They'll utilize clinical interviews, scales for assessing behavior, or symptom checklists. Psychological tests can be used to determine 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 analyzes the activity of specific areas of your brain that control the ability to focus and the ability to be impulsive.
Additionally, they'll examine your medical history to see whether you've suffered from any other mental health conditions or injuries such as head trauma or thyroid conditions that can cause similar symptoms. They may refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist to conduct a thorough assessment.
You must show six or more symptoms which started in childhood or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms must be present for at least six months and be causing significant difficulties in your daily life. Adults need to meet a lower threshold for diagnosis, however the criteria are the same: You must be suffering from at least five symptoms that cause problems with your social, work and personal life.
Treatment
Treatment aims to ease symptoms and improve functioning at work, home and at school. There are many different treatment options, including the use of medication and behavioral therapy. Some people also have satisfaction with lifestyle changes, like setting up a routine that is consistent, using a planner or notebook and scheduling tasks in advance. Other people may benefit from specific learning disabilities treatments, such as metacognitive training that helps them improve their abilities to manage their time and problem solving or cognitive behavioral therapy to deal with cognitive distortions that can lead to negative moods and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who are specially trained can provide the most effective treatment program based on a patient's particular situation. They will examine the person's symptoms and, when they are an adult, their childhood and school experiences. They will use clinical interviews, behavior rating scales and checklists of symptoms to determine if the person is in compliance with requirements for diagnosing ADHD. They may also inquire about family history of mental illnesses and physical ailments. They'll ask the individual or their parents as well as teachers about their moods and behavior and how they've changed over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the presence of more than six symptoms that begin before age 12 and create difficulties in two or more settings (home school, social situations). The symptoms must be present for at least six months. The symptoms must be more severe than what is normal for a person of the same age.
There aren't any blood tests or brain scans to diagnose ADHD however a medical checkup usually is performed to ensure that there's no other issue with the individual. Doctors will examine the person's medical and psychiatric history and examine their symptoms. They may also recommend an eye or hearing test. Some people who suffer from ADHD have a genetic predisposition to develop the condition. A person who has a parent or sibling with ADHD has a 91% chance of develop the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by get diagnosed with adhd or mood disorder. These disorders can be more difficult to treat than ADHD by itself.
Prevention
Many things, including medical conditions and certain types of learning disabilities can trigger similar symptoms to those of ADHD. It's important to consult a mental health professional or a health care professional for an assessment prior to determining a diagnosis. The doctor will inquire about your child's symptoms and how they affect their daily life. They may also use rating scales or a checklist to help determine if your child suffers from ADHD. They may also do an examination and test for hearing or vision problems. They may also order a brain scan called an EEG that measures theta and beta waves to check for changes in the brain function of your child.
For children to be diagnosed with ADHD, they must have numerous symptoms that are more prominent than what is normal for their age or developmental level. The symptoms of inattention, impulsivity and/or hyperactivity have to cause serious problems at school, at home or work. The symptoms should also affect your child's ability to interact with other children. If your child is suffering from severe or moderate ADHD They will require medication to lead an ordinary life.
Children suffering from ADHD are often unable to follow instructions and remain focused, which can lead to low self-esteem and grades. They may also struggle with social interactions as they struggle to discern social cues and often interrupt others or come off as violent or aggressive. They are susceptible to anxiety, depression, substance misuse, and relationship issues.
Mild ADHD is defined by symptoms that are visible but do not hinder daily life, making it difficult to maintain relationships or work. People with moderate to severe ADHD will exhibit more symptoms, and are more likely than other people to experience problems at work, such as difficulties keeping a job or interacting with coworkers.
People who don't receive treatment could face grave consequences, including financial difficulties, health problems and legal issues. There are many treatments for ADHD which include psychosocial therapy and behavioral therapy, diet and nutrition, exercise sleeping improvements, and medication. NIMH provides more information about these options and how to speak with your family about these options.