Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Adults are usually not diagnosed until they experience significant issues at home, 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 symptom checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health care professionals also inquire about family history and go through old school records.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can impact the way a person lives their life regardless of whether they are at home, school or at work. They can cause problems in relationships and careers, financial problems or even a driver's permit. They can also lead to emotional anxiety. It's normal for everyone to have trouble concentrating or being organized from time to moment but if it develops into an ongoing issue that interferes with everyday functioning, a health specialist may be able diagnose ADHD.
To be able to diagnose someone with ADHD the healthcare professional must examine the person in at minimum two different environments, such as home and school or workplace and social settings. The health care professional must monitor the patient for at least six months and determine if the symptoms are affecting their ability to perform. 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 are often disruptive or interfere with other children.
Children who suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD are unable to sit or wait quietly and have trouble following instructions or staying on task. They are often daydreaming or easily distracted. They are more likely to be overlooked and miss out on opportunities to learn, especially in the early years of school, which could make them vulnerable to 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 difficulty sitting or waiting for their turn, blurting out answers before the questions are complete, and have trouble managing their emotions.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief but it's also not always easy to accept. It's okay to feel embarrassed. However honesty is the best approach. For many, a diagnosis may be the first time they've realized that their struggles have a name. Having this understanding can change the way they think about themselves, which could cascade into positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms appear at different time points in adults and children. In children, the symptoms usually begin in the first grade. For adults, it's slightly 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 instances the condition can be misdiagnosed as autistic or a mood disorder like anxiety or depression.
If your child or teen shows signs of ADHD The first step is to talk to your doctor. They will conduct a physical exam that includes hearing and vision to ensure there's nothing else going on. They will ask you and your child to complete an inventory of their symptoms. They'll want to know how their symptoms have impacted their home and school life. They'll also ask to know about any previous problems.
For adults, a healthcare professional who is qualified to diagnose ADHD will conduct clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or checklists for symptoms to determine if they meet the requirements for diagnosis. Psychological tests can be used to assess your cognitive abilities, and how you process information and think. They could also conduct a brain scan using the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid, which is FDA-approved (NEBA), which measures the activity of certain areas of your brain that control the ability to focus and impulsivity.
They will also review your medical records to determine whether there are any additional mental conditions or injuries, like thyroid or head trauma that can cause similar symptoms. They might refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a thorough evaluation.
You must have at least six symptoms which began in your childhood or before the age of 12. The symptoms must last at least six months and cause significant difficulties with your daily functioning. Adults need to be able to meet a lower threshold in order to be diagnosed, however the same criteria apply: You need to have at least five or more symptoms, and they must affect your work, home and social life.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and restore functioning at home, school and work. There are a range of treatments available, including medication and behavior therapy. Some people experience satisfaction by making lifestyle changes such as using an organizer, a notebook and arranging tasks in advance. Some people might benefit from learning disabilities therapies such as metacognitive therapy, which aids them in improving their problem-solving skills and organizational skills or cognitive behavioral therapy that addresses the distortions in thinking that can lead to low self-esteem and mood swings.
Health professionals who are specially trained can provide the most effective treatment plan based on the patient's specific situation. They will examine the person's current symptoms and, if an adult, their previous behaviour and schooling experiences. They will employ clinical interviewing, scales for assessing behavior, and symptom checklists in order to determine if the person is in compliance with ADHD diagnostic criteria. They can also look up a family history of mental health problems and physical illnesses. They will ask the person as well as their parents and teachers about their moods and behaviors and how they've changed over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the presence of more than six symptoms that start before age 12 and create difficulties in two or more settings (home school, social situations). The symptoms have to be present for at least six months. The symptoms should also be more severe than expected for a person of the same age.
A medical exam is usually performed to make sure that the person doesn't have any other health problems. Doctors will examine the person's symptoms, as well as their medical and psychiatric background and may recommend an eye examination or hearing test. Certain people suffering from ADHD have a genetic predisposition to develop the disorder. Anyone who has a parent or sibling with ADHD has an 85% chance of develop the disorder. It's also common to suffer from a comorbid mood disorder or anxiety disorder that is associated with ADHD. These disorders can be harder to manage than ADHD alone.
The following is a list of preventatives.
Many things, including certain medical conditions and learning disabilities, can trigger symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. It is therefore important to consult an expert in health care or mental health professional for an evaluation prior to determining an assessment. The doctor will inquire about your child's symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. They can use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child has ADHD. They may also do a physical exam and test for hearing or vision problems. They can also request a brain scan, also known as an EEG, which examines beta and theta waves to determine if there are any changes in your child's brain function.
Children who are diagnosed with ADHD have symptoms that are significantly greater than what is normal for their age and development level. The signs of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity have to cause serious problems at home, school or at 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 lead an ordinary life.
Children suffering from ADHD may have trouble following instructions and staying on track. This can result in poor grades and a lack of self-esteem. They may also have difficulties with social interactions because they are unable to read social cues and frequently interrupt others or appear violent or aggressive. They are at risk for depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and relationship issues.
Mild ADHD is manifests itself in symptoms that are apparent but do not affect daily life. They can make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate to severe ADHD will exhibit more symptoms, and are more likely to have issues at work, including difficulty keeping a job, or interacting with colleagues.
People who don't receive treatment could face serious consequences. adhd diagnosis in adult includes financial issues as well as health and legal issues. There are a variety of treatments for ADHD. These include psychosocial interventions including nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement and even medications. NIMH offers more information on these options and how to talk with your family members about these options.