Ten Taboos About ADHD Diagnoses You Should Never Share On Twitter
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions about your current symptoms as well as your history with ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A major event such as pregnancy or a relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step to manage ADHD symptoms and improving function is to get a diagnosis.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with staying still, waiting their turn and paying attention in schools and other settings, those who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems to a degree that significantly hinders their performance at home, in school or at work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity have to be present for at minimum six months and be more prominent than is normal for their age or developmental stage. They must be causing major problems at school, work, home and in relationships.
Being diagnosed with ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a qualified health care provider. This may include a physical examination, and also examining for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or depression. The doctor will also look at the person's family history and review medical, psychiatric and academic records. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions in accordance with their age. parents are also able to be interviewed.
The doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Association's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD for children and adults, which are outlined in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The provider will review the patient's current symptoms as well as previous behavior, focusing on how they interfere with their family, social and professional life. If adult diagnosis adhd is possible, he or will look at the person's childhood behavior and school experiences as well.
When looking at adults, the physician will be able to determine whether they have an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring and will inquire if the person has a family history of ADHD. Family members of those with ADHD are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone has ADHD the doctor will conduct a full clinical evaluation. This involves examining the patient's current symptoms and asking them to keep a journal every day of their symptoms over a period of several weeks. The doctor will also inquire about any other issues the patient has and will refer to the DSM-5 symptom guide to see whether they meet the characteristics of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who are interested in ADHD or who specialize in mental illness can screen and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
The first step in diagnosing ADHD is an extensive medical examination, including examination of vision and hearing. A specialist may also suggest a brain scanner known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the relative intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This kind of scan can be used to test for ADHD in a non-invasive and safe method.
In an interview with the person, the examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, in addition to his current symptoms and coping strategies. The doctor checks to see if the person meets the diagnostic criteria for either inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or combined ADHD presentations as defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
For adolescents and children being evaluated for ADHD The doctor may request teachers and other individuals who spend much time with the child to fill in checklists or questionnaires. They may also ask parents to fill out these forms. For adults, he or she will usually talk to spouses and other close friends, as well as colleagues, and may want to interview a family member who knows the person from childhood.
During the diagnostic process, the mental health professional looks for signs that indicate whether the person is experiencing predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. They will also determine the length of time that symptoms have been present and whether they are causing problems at home, at the workplace, at school, or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional must also be able to detect other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she must also determine any physical causes of the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep disorders. In addition an extensive screening will also check the person's emotional, social and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging the school staff to watch their child's behavior, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques like yoga or meditation. Many children suffering from ADHD can benefit from regular physical activity and a healthy diet, which can help enhance their ability to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods that are high in sugar can worsen symptoms. They should also make sure they sleep enough.
The signs of ADHD can persist throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation typically includes a mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the person and their parents, spouse or life partner and other family members who know the person well. The doctor may request an inventory of the person's symptoms and how they affect them. The doctor could also use ratings scales and other tests to determine if the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. The person may inquire about medical conditions that may mimic ADHD symptoms, such as seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If a person is diagnosed as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to treat symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children and adults. These drugs can cause side effects. One should only take these medications under the supervision of a doctor and with prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications he or is taking, as certain drugs can interact with stimulants to cause dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD need to test various types and dosages of medication before they find one that works.
The following is a list with preventions.
In some cases it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers from the environment can help prevent ADHD symptoms. This could include the way you eat, your routines for sleeping family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control triggers, and can refer you to an dietitian for nutrition advice or other assistance.
Consult your GP for more details. Avoid supplements for dietary purposes that have no research-based backing or that might interfere with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should visit an expert in mental health like a psychiatrist or psychologist to establish a diagnosis. The doctor will take a thorough history, conduct a physical exam and look over medical records to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the patient's behavior and use the standard ratings scales. He or she will consider the intensity and duration of the ADHD-related symptoms as well in determining whether they have a significant impact on the person's daily life.
Therapists may collaborate with a patient and their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive skills that include identifying and changing "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of a lack of options. Psychologists can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also aid by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and refraining from stimulants. They should also encourage their child to interact with others, and work to build a healthy bond with their spouse.
School staff can provide valuable information about the behavior and learning issues of students However, they are not able to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. The student's parents and healthcare provider must make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.