Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Adults are typically not diagnosed until they have significant issues at home, at work or at school. 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 full assessment includes ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health care professionals ask about the family's history and examine old school records.
Symptoms
Symptoms of ADHD can affect the lives of a person at school, at home or at work. They can cause issues in relationships and careers, financial problems or even a driver's permit. They can also lead to emotional stress. It's normal for people to have difficulty concentrating or staying organized from time to moment, but if it becomes an ongoing issue that interferes with everyday functioning, a health care professional may be able to diagnose ADHD.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD the health care professional must evaluate the person in at minimum two different environments, such as the workplace, school, and social settings. The health professional must be observing the person for at least six month and determine if the symptoms are affecting their ability to function. The symptoms must also be present prior to the age of 12 years. 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 interfere with others or interrupt them.
Children with inattention ADHD have difficulty following instructions, staying on task or sitting still. They are usually distracted or snoozing. They are more likely to be ignored and miss out on learning opportunities, especially in elementary schools, which can set up them for failure later in their lives.
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 settling down. They also have difficulty controlling their emotions.
It's a relief to receive a diagnosis of ADHD but it's not always easy. It's okay to feel embarrassed. However honesty is the best way to go. For some, a diagnosis will be the first time they've realized their struggles have a name. Understanding this can change the way they view themselves, which could cascade into positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms can manifest at different times in both adults and children. In children, the symptoms usually begin in the first grade. For adults, symptoms begin somewhat later. The symptoms may 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 disorder is not properly diagnosed. It could be related to autism or a mood disorders like depression or anxiety.
Consult your doctor If your child or teenager is showing indications of ADHD. They will conduct an examination that includes audio and vision to make sure that there is no other issue. Your child and you will be asked to write a list of symptoms. They will be interested in knowing how the symptoms have affected their family and school life. They will also want to be informed about any past issues they've experienced.
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a doctor competent to do so. They may use clinical interviews, behavior rating scales, or symptoms checklists. Psychological tests can be used to determine your cognitive abilities, as well as how you process information and think. They could also conduct an examination of the brain using the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a device that measures the activity in certain brain regions that regulate your attention and the impulsivity.
Additionally, they'll review your medical history to determine whether you've suffered from any other mental health conditions or injuries like thyroid or head trauma which can trigger similar symptoms. They may refer you to thorough evaluation by a psychiatrist or psychologist.
You must show six or more symptoms, that began in childhood or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms must be present for at least six months, and cause significant problems with your daily functioning. Adults need to meet a lower threshold to be diagnosed, however the same criteria apply: You must have at least five or more symptoms, and they must affect your home, work and social life.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to improve symptoms and improve functioning at home, school and work. There are a variety of treatment options, such as treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Some people also have success through lifestyle changes, such as setting up a routine that is consistent by using a planner notebook and scheduling tasks in advance. Certain people might benefit from therapies for learning disabilities like metacognitive therapy which assists them in improving their problem-solving and organizational skills or cognitive behavioral therapy, which addresses thinking distortions that can lead to low self-esteem and mood swings.
Health care professionals who are specifically trained to diagnose ADHD can recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for a patient's situation. They will look at the person's current symptoms, and if an adult, their previous behaviors and school experiences. adhd diagnosis in adult will employ clinical interviewing, scales for assessing behavior, and symptom checklists to determine if the individual has the ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also ask about the family history of mental illnesses and physical illnesses. They will ask the person as well as their parents and teachers about their moods and behaviors and about how they've changed over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the presence of six or more signs that start before the age of 12 and create difficulties in two or more environments (home school, at home and social situations). The symptoms must be present for at least 6 months. Additionally the symptoms must be significantly more difficult than one would expect for a person at that age.
There aren't any blood tests or brain scans to determine ADHD However, an exam for medical reasons is usually done to make sure there's no other issue with the individual. Doctors will review the patient's medical and psychiatric histories and review their symptoms. They may also recommend an eye or hearing test. Some people with ADHD are genetically predisposed to develop the disorder. If a person has a parent or a sibling with ADHD, they have about 91% of the chance of being diagnosed with the disorder. It is also common to have a comorbid mood anxiety disorder with ADHD. These conditions can be more difficult to manage than ADHD alone.
Prevention
Many things, such as certain medical conditions, as well as learning disabilities, can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. It is essential to talk to a mental health professional or a health care professional for an assessment prior to determining an assessment. The professional will inquire with your child about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. They can also utilize scoring scales or a checklist to determine if your child is suffering from ADHD. They may also do an examination and test for hearing or vision problems. They can also request an EEG brain scan which evaluates beta and theta wave activity to check on changes in your child’s brain function.
Children diagnosed with ADHD have symptoms that are more than normal for their age and developmental level. The signs of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity must cause significant problems at home, at school or work. The symptoms should also hinder your child's social interactions. If your child suffers from severe or moderate ADHD they will require medication to live a normal life.
Children suffering from 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 struggle with social relationships, as they are unable to read social signals. They often interrupt others and come across as violent or intense. They are at risk of depression, anxiety as well as substance abuse and relationship issues.
Mild ADHD is defined by symptoms that are apparent but do not hinder daily life, which makes it difficult to maintain relationships or work. People who suffer from severe or moderate ADHD are more prone to symptoms and are more likely to experience job-related problems, such as difficulty keeping a job, getting along with colleagues, or maintaining relationships.
If they do not seek treatment may face serious consequences. These include financial problems, health issues, and legal issues. There are a variety of treatments for ADHD. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions including nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement, and even medications. NIMH provides more details about these options and how you can discuss them with your family.