Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
The first step towards reducing symptoms that affect daily life is to get an ADHD diagnosis. For those with ADHD, the diagnosis may appear as a label but for others it is a relief to finally know the reason to explain why they're not able to keep up with their job household, home and family obligations.
What are the symptoms ADHD?
While the symptoms of ADHD differ for each person, some general ones include problems staying focused and organized problems with managing time, impulsivity and issues with impulse control. The symptoms of ADHD may impact relationships, cause social issues, and can affect the quality of life of those who live with them.
In order to determine if a person has ADHD, doctors will conduct an interview called a clinical. In this interview, the doctor will ask about the patient's past. Typically the doctor will inquire about the family's background and medical history as well as how the person has been affected by their symptoms over time.
A physical exam is also conducted to rule out other health issues that could be causing symptoms, such a sleep disorders thyroid issues, thyroid disorders or hormonal changes. Then, the healthcare provider will likely offer the patient several questionnaires or scales to fill out and have them describe their behaviors. The healthcare provider may also ask others in the patient's family about their experiences with them, such as siblings or spouses, a teacher, coach or nanny.
Many people with untreated ADHD struggle to meet their own or others' expectations and might feel like a failure because of it. An insecure self-image and a sense of despair and an absence of motivation could be present. Over time, these feelings can cause depression and anxiety.
Diagnoses can bring relief and hope to those who suffer from ADHD. It can help those with ADHD recognize the reasons they're struggling at work, in their home, or in their relationships. It can also allow them to realize that their problems are not their fault, and are not due to an individual flaw in character or lack of effort.
People suffering from ADHD are more likely to experience depression and anxiety than people who do not suffer from the condition. A diagnosis can help them take steps to address these issues. They can also learn strategies that can make it easier to succeed.
What is the diagnosis of ADHD?
To diagnose ADHD, a health care professional must take a comprehensive history of the patient's symptoms. They will determine the duration the symptoms have been present and what issues they cause in various settings, such as school or work. They may also conduct a number of tests, including symptoms checklists and attention span tests. They may also interview family members to obtain an overall picture of the person's symptoms and behaviors.
In addition to evaluating the symptoms of a patient medical professional must also consider whether they have a coexisting disorder such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can adversely impact ADHD symptoms, making them more difficult to manage. Health professionals also look at a person's general functioning and well-being. They examine their academic performance, work performance and family relationships.
Ask your health care provider how long they have treated adults with ADHD. It is important to find an therapist trained in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They should be willing and able to discuss with the patient their education and training. If they do not or appear unwilling to divulge this information the patient should consult another therapist.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a relief for those struggling with symptoms. It can help them to understand why they have had difficulties at work or in their relationships and it can give them hope that there are solutions to improve their life. Getting a diagnosis can also assist in getting accommodations at school or work. For example, if an employee has ADHD and is having trouble staying on task they may request that their supervisor or professor grant them more time to finish assignments or write essays.
A person with ADHD is treated using an individualized treatment, medication and lifestyle changes. ADHD is treated with stimulants, antidepressants, as well as non-stimulant drugs. People with ADHD often experience side effects of taking medications and it is crucial to discuss the advantages and potential risks with your healthcare professional.
How do I obtain an ADHD diagnosis?
You may want to get your child or yourself evaluated when you observe signs of ADHD. Adults may discover they have ADHD when their symptoms cause significant problems in their lives. Many people discover they suffer from ADHD when a family member or friend identified it. A diagnosis of ADHD can help you receive accommodations at school and at work. It can also lessen feelings of shame, guilt and embarrassment.
A specialist will interview you in depth and take careful notes. The expert will go over the symptoms of ADHD and determine which of them are relevant to the person being evaluated, as well as consider their history since childhood. The test may also comprise physical examinations and tests of hearing, vision, and balance.
During the interview, you will be asked to be honest and explain to the expert what ADHD symptoms impact your life. The specialist might require you to bring in report cards and other records from your childhood to ensure that he can see how your ADHD symptoms have manifested throughout the years. Most often, these records show patterns of behavior that are typical of ADHD. Experts also want to know what ADHD symptoms have affected your relationships. It is not uncommon for evaluators to contact loved ones to have them fill out questionnaires about your ADHD symptoms.
There are a variety of professionals who can conduct ADHD testing and provide a diagnosis, such as psychologists, psychiatrists psychotherapists, neuropsychologists, and doctors. Consult your family doctor or therapist for recommendations, and try out a variety of specialists to make a decision. Before making an appointment, you can check the academic and professional qualifications of specialists or request former patients or clients for references.
It can be difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults because the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Version V (DSM-V) is designed to identify symptoms in children. However, a careful clinical interview will usually yield the correct answer, especially for adults who have clear symptoms of ADHD in their early years.
How can I get treatment for ADHD?
If you suspect that you or your child is suffering from ADHD or has been told by someone else, getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward controlling the symptoms and eventually getting control. People are often relieved when they realize that it wasn't just laziness or a lack of intelligence that was causing their problems, but a condition that can be treated and controlled.
You should see a mental health professional or your primary care doctor for a psychiatric examination to receive an ADHD diagnosis. A typical evaluation can take up to an hour and may include a medical interview, a review of medical history and family history, the completion of ADHD rating scales and questionnaires completed by you and caregivers, and an exam to rule out other illnesses that can cause similar symptoms, including thyroid problems, seizure disorders depression, mood disorders and more.
The evaluator has to be certified to diagnose ADHD. If they are not, they need the recommendation of a different specialist or therapist who is. It's important to choose the right expert. Get recommendations from other doctors, therapists and trusted friends and do your own research. Check for professional certifications and academic degrees, as well as ask about their expertise and rate of success in diagnosing ADHD.
For children, in order read more to meet the the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, their symptoms must be evident in more than one setting (home school, at home, and/or social situations) and significantly impact their functioning and their quality of life. The symptoms they exhibit must be distinct from other children of the same age and development level. The child's symptoms must be causing significant suffering for the family members, such as having difficulty completing work or school, or frequent disagreements with parents.
For adults, to be diagnosed with ADHD the evaluator must solicit feedback from your spouse, close acquaintances, and/or coworkers about how you perform at home and at work. You might be asked to complete the questionnaire or give your consent to contact from coaches, teachers, and daycare providers. In some instances an evaluator could recommend a physical examination to rule out any medical conditions that could be the cause of your symptoms or that of your child, such as thyroid problems or seizures.