Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms cause major problems at work, school or home. Health professionals follow the diagnostic criteria set out in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
A complete evaluation will include ADHD symptom checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health professionals inquire about the family history and review the school records from the past.
Symptoms
ADHD symptoms can have a negative impact on the daily routine of a person, whether it is at home, school or work. They can cause disruption to relationships and careers, leading to serious financial problems or a driver's license, and can even cause emotional distress for the person. It's normal for people to struggle in concentrating or staying organized from time to time. However when the issue gets more severe and affects the daily activities, a healthcare specialist may be able to identify ADHD.
A health care professional must evaluate the person in two different situations, like at home and at school, as well as in workplace and social settings. The health care professional must monitor the patient for at least six month and determine whether the symptoms are affecting their ability to function. The symptoms should 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 are usually unable to wait their turn, and they interrupt or disturb other children.
Children with the inattentive kind of ADHD are not able to sit or stand at a comfortable pace and have difficulty following instructions or staying on task. They are often distracted or snoozing. They are more likely to be ignored, and miss out on opportunities to learn, particularly in elementary schools which could prepare for failure later on 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 are unable to sit or waiting for their turn, blurting out answers before they are completed, and have difficulty managing their emotions.
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD can be a relief however, it's difficult to comprehend. It's normal to be embarrassed. But honesty is the best way to go. For some, a diagnosis will be the first time they've realised that their struggles have a name. This understanding can allow them to change their perspective of themselves, resulting in positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms appear at different times in both adults and children. For children, symptoms typically begin in the middle of elementary school, however for adults it's a little later. The symptoms could be mild, moderate, or severe. get diagnosed with adhd can also be a combination of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity or more focused on one or the other. In some instances the condition could be misdiagnosed as autism, or an anxiety disorder or depression.
If your child or teen shows symptoms of ADHD, the first step is to talk to your doctor. They will conduct an examination that includes audio and vision to make sure that there is no other issue. They will ask you and your child to complete an inventory of their symptoms. They will want to know how the symptoms have affected their home and school life. They'll also want to be informed about any past issues they've had.
For adults, a medical professional who's qualified to diagnose ADHD will use clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or checklists of symptoms to determine if they meet the requirements for diagnosis. Psychological tests can be used to evaluate your cognitive abilities, and how you think and process information. They may also perform a brain scan using the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid, which is FDA-approved (NEBA) which analyzes the activity of specific parts of your brain that control the ability to focus and the ability to be impulsive.
They will also review your medical records to determine whether there are any other mental health issues or injuries, such as thyroid issues or head trauma that could cause similar symptoms. They might refer you for thorough evaluation by psychiatrists or psychologists.
To get a diagnosis of ADHD it is necessary to have at least six or more symptoms that began in your childhood or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms must be present for at least six months and be causing serious problems with your daily functioning. Adults must meet an upper threshold for diagnosis, however the criteria are the same: You must have at least five symptoms that cause problems with your social, work and personal life.
Treatment
The aim of treatment is to reduce symptoms and restore functioning at the workplace, at home and in school. There are many treatment options, including treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Some people have success by making lifestyle changes such as using a planner, a notebook and arranging tasks ahead of time. Others may benefit from specific learning disabilities treatments, like metacognitive training that helps to improve their abilities to manage their time and problem solving as well as cognitive behavioral therapy to correct the distortions in thinking that can lead to negative moods and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who have been specially trained in diagnosing ADHD can recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for a patient's situation. They will examine the person's current symptoms and, when they are an adult, their previous behaviors and school experiences. They will employ clinical interviewing, behavior rating scales, and symptom checklists in order to determine if a person has the ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also take the family history of mental health problems and physical ailments. They will inquire about the person's moods, behaviors and how they've changed over time.
The diagnosis of ADHD is by analyzing six or more symptoms that begin before the age of 12 and can cause problems in at least two different settings (at school, at home or in social situations). The symptoms must have been present for a minimum of 6 months. The symptoms must also be more severe than is normal for a person of the same age.
There are no blood tests or brain scans to determine ADHD However, an exam for medical reasons is usually carried out to ensure there's nothing else wrong with the individual. Doctors will look over the patient's symptoms and medical and mental history, and may suggest an eye exam or hearing test. Certain people suffering from ADHD have a genetic predisposition to develop the condition. If a person has a parent or sibling with ADHD and is a child, they have a 91% chance of being diagnosed with the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by anxiety or mood disorder. These disorders are more difficult to treat than ADHD on its own.
Prevention
Many things, such as certain medical conditions, as well as learning disabilities, can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD. It is therefore important to consult your health care provider or a mental health professional for an assessment prior to making a diagnosis. The person you see will inquire about the symptoms of your child and how they affect their daily lives. They can use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child suffers from ADHD. They could also perform an examination and test for vision or hearing problems. They can also request an examination of the brain, known as an EEG, which analyzes beta and theta waves to determine if there are any changes in your child's brain function.
Children who are diagnosed with ADHD must show symptoms that are more than the norm for their age and developmental level. Hyperactivity, inattention, and/or impulsivity must cause serious problems at home, school or at work. The symptoms must also affect your child's ability to interact with other people. If your child is suffering from moderate or severe ADHD They will require medication in order to lead a normal life.
Children suffering from ADHD are often unable to follow instructions and remain focused which can result in low self-esteem and poor grades. They may also have issues with social interactions, since they are unable to recognize social cues. They frequently interrupt others and appear aggressive or abrasive. They are at risk of depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and relationship issues.
People who suffer from mild ADHD have symptoms that are apparent but do not affect their daily life or make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate to severe ADHD are more likely to experience symptoms, and are more likely than other people to have problems at work, like difficulties keeping a job or interacting with colleagues.
People who don't receive treatment can have grave consequences, including health issues, financial problems, and legal issues. There are a myriad of treatments available for ADHD. These include psychosocial interventions, nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement, and medications. NIMH provides more information about these options and how to discuss them with your family members.