Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms cause major problems at work, school or at home. Health care providers 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 symptoms checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health professionals also inquire about family history and look over old school records.
Symptoms
The signs of ADHD can impact a person's life at school, home, or at work. They can cause problems in relationships and careers, financial problems and even a driver's licence. They can also trigger emotional anxiety. It's normal to have difficulty concentrating or being organized from time to time but if it develops into an ongoing issue that affects daily functioning, a health care provider may be able to diagnose ADHD.
To be able to diagnose someone with ADHD A health professional must assess the patient in at least two different settings, which could include the workplace, school, and social settings. They need to observe the person in these settings for at least six months and determine that the symptoms are impairing their ability to function. The symptoms must also be present prior to the age of 12. 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 often are in a hurry to finish their work and often interrupt or intrude upon others.
Children with the inattentive type of ADHD are unable to sit or wait quietly and have trouble following instructions or staying focused. They are usually distracted by their thoughts or distracted by their surroundings. They're more likely to be left out and miss opportunities to learn, especially in elementary school, which could cause them to be a 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, blurt out answers before they are completed, and have difficulty controlling their emotions.
It's it's a relief to get an diagnosis of ADHD however, it's not always simple. People might be embarrassed, but they need to be honest so they can get the help they need. For some, it will be the first time they've realized that their struggles have a name. Having this understanding can change the way they see themselves, which could result in positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms can manifest at different times in children and adults. For children, symptoms typically begin in elementary school. For adults, symptoms begin a bit later. The 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 cases the condition is not properly diagnosed. It could be related to autism or a mood disorder like anxiety or depression.
If your child or teen is showing symptoms of ADHD, the first step is to speak with your doctor. They will conduct an examination that includes vision and audio to ensure that there is no other issue. They will ask you and your child to fill out an inventory of their symptoms. They will ask what the effects of their symptoms are on their school and home life. They will also want to hear about any past problems they've faced.
For adults, a healthcare professional who's qualified to diagnose ADHD will conduct the process of conducting clinical interviews, as well as behavior rating scales or checklists of symptoms to determine if they meet the requirements for diagnosis. They could also conduct psychological tests to measure your cognitive abilities and learn how you think and process information. They may also perform an examination of your brain using the Neuropsychiatric EEG Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is FDA-approved. (NEBA) which evaluates the activity of specific parts of your brain that control the ability to focus and impulsivity.
They will also look at your medical records to see whether there are any other mental health issues or injuries, for example thyroid issues or head trauma that could cause similar symptoms. They may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a thorough evaluation.
You must show six or more symptoms, that began in childhood or before the age of 12. The symptoms must last at minimum six months and cause significant problems with your daily activities. Adults must have a lower threshold to be diagnosed, however the same criteria apply: You need to have at least five or more symptoms and these must interfere with your home, work and social life.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to improve symptoms and restore functioning at school, home and at work. There are a myriad of treatment options, such as the use of medication and behavioral therapy. Some people have success by making lifestyle changes, such as using an organizer, a notebook and arranging tasks in advance. Certain people might benefit from treatments for learning disabilities such as metacognitive therapy, which aids them in improving their problem-solving and organizational skills or cognitive behavioral treatment that addresses the distortions in thinking which can cause depression and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who have been specially trained in diagnosing ADHD can suggest the most effective treatment plan for a patient's situation. adhd adults diagnosis will evaluate the symptoms of the patient, and in the case of an adult, they will also consider their school and childhood experiences. They will use clinical interviewing, behavior rating scales and symptom checklists to determine if a person has the ADHD diagnostic criteria. They might also inquire about the family history of mental illnesses and physical ailments. They will ask about the person's moods, behavior and changes over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the presence of six or more symptoms that start before age 12 and can cause problems in two or more settings (home, school and social situations). The symptoms must have been present for a minimum of 6 months. Additionally the symptoms must be significantly more difficult than expected for someone of 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 nothing else wrong with the person. Doctors will examine the person's medical and psychiatric records and review their symptoms. They may also recommend an eye or hearing test. Some people who suffer from ADHD have a genetic predisposition to develop the disorder. Anyone who has a parent or sibling with ADHD has a 91% chance to develop the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by a anxiety or mood disorder. These conditions can be more difficult to manage than ADHD by itself.
The following is a list with preventions.
Many things, including medical conditions and certain types of learning disabilities, can trigger similar symptoms to those of ADHD. So it's important to see your health care provider or mental health professional for an evaluation prior to determining an assessment. This person will ask about your child's symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. They could use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child suffers from ADHD. They may also do physical examinations and tests for problems with vision or hearing. They may also order an EEG brain scan, which measures beta and theta waves to check on changes in your child's brain function.
To be able to diagnose a child with ADHD the child must exhibit several symptoms that are more prominent than normal for their age or development level. Inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity can cause significant problems at home, school, or work. The symptoms can also impact your child's ability to interact with other people. If your child suffers from severe or moderate ADHD they will require medication to lead an ordinary life.
Children with ADHD may have difficulty following directions and staying on task. This can lead to low grades and a lack of self-esteem. They may also have difficulty with social interactions because they are unable to read social cues and often interrupt others or come off as aggressive or intense. They are susceptible to anxiety, depression as well as substance abuse and relationship issues.
People with mild ADHD have symptoms that are noticeable but they do not hinder their daily lives or make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. People with moderate to severe ADHD will have more symptoms, and they are more likely than other people to experience problems at work, including difficulty keeping a job, or interacting with colleagues.
People who do not receive treatment could face serious consequences. This includes financial issues as well as health and legal issues. There are many treatment options for ADHD, including psychosocial therapy and behavioral therapy such as diet and nutrition, exercise, medication for sleep, and other treatments. NIMH has more information on these options and how to talk with your family members about them.