Five Lessons You Can Learn From ADHD Diagnoses
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions about your current symptoms and your background with ADHD. He will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. An event that is significant, such as a pregnancy or relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to obtain an assessment.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulties with being seated, waiting for a call and paying attention in school or in other environments. These issues can greatly impact their performance at work, home, or school. The signs of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity must have been present for at least six months, and be more prominent than is normal for their age or developmental stage. In addition, they must be causing significant pain and difficulties at school, home, at work, as well as in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a trained health care provider. This could include a physical exam, and also examining for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like thyroid or depression. The doctor will also examine the person's family history and review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions according to their age, and parents are also able to be interviewed.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Association's guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will look at the patient's current symptoms as well as past behavior, looking at how they interfere with their family, social and professional life. If it is possible, he or will examine the person's childhood behavior and school experiences as well.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will determine if they suffer from a mental health issue that is co-occurring, as well as if there is a history of ADHD in the family. People with family members with the disorder are more prone to develop it themselves.
If a health professional suspects someone is suffering from ADHD If he or she suspects that someone has ADHD, they will conduct an exhaustive clinical evaluation that includes a review of their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a diary of their symptoms for a few weeks. He or she may also ask the person about any other conditions they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the person is in compliance with any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who are interested in ADHD or who specialize in mental illness are able to screen and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Family physicians may also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive evaluation.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an extensive medical examination, including evaluation of vision and hearing. A specialist may suggest an examination of the brain, called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid, or NEBA, to measure the concentration of beta and theta waves within the brain. This type of scan can be used to screen for ADHD in a non-invasive, secure method.
In an interview with the person the examiner will review the patient's medical and mental background dating back to childhood, as well as the present symptoms and coping strategies. diagnosed with adhd to see if the person meets the diagnostic criteria for either inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or combined ADHD presentations as defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
For teens and children who are being assessed for ADHD, the doctor will likely have teachers and other professionals who spend much time with the child to complete questionnaires or checklists. He or she might also ask parents to fill out the forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, coworkers, and other close family members. They might also want to interview someone who has known the person since childhood.
During the diagnostic process, the mental health professional looks for signs that indicate whether the person is experiencing predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. They will also determine for how long the symptoms have been present and whether they are causing difficulties at home, school or at work, or in other areas of life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. The professional should also look for any physical causes of the person's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep problems. In addition, a thorough screening will also examine the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD require learning to manage their symptoms. adhd diagnoses can help them by encouraging the school staff to monitor the child with a keen eye, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also teach relaxation techniques and methods for calming such as yoga or meditation. Many children suffering from ADHD benefit from regular physical exercise and a healthy diet, which can increase their ability to focus and concentrate. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, which can aggravate their symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
The signs of ADHD can persist throughout adolescence and into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties at work or in relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD, and the severity of it. This evaluation usually includes an assessment of mental health, a physical exam and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents, a spouse or life partner and others who know the person well. The healthcare provider might request a list of the person's symptoms and how they affect him or her. They may also use rating scales or other tests to determine if the person is in compliance with the standardized criteria for ADHD. He or she will also collect a history of any medical problems that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication is typically prescribed to manage the symptoms. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications used to treat ADHD in adults and children. These drugs are likely to cause adverse negative effects, therefore one should only take them under doctor's supervision and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants and cause dangerous side effects. Many individuals with ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages before settling on the one that is right for him or her.
Prevention
In some cases it is possible to reduce exposure to environmental triggers can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include sleeping and eating habits, family structure and medication. A GP can help you find ways to deal with these triggers and can refer you for further assistance or a dietitian to recommend nutritional changes.
Children can also be assisted by following the same routines by limiting sugar and caffeine and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Try to avoid supplements for your diet that do not have scientific backing or may interfere with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should visit a mental health professional for diagnosis, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, to establish a diagnosis. The doctor will go through medical records, perform an examination of the body and take a detailed medical history to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, observe the person's behavior in different environments and apply standard rating scales. The therapist will take into consideration the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms, as in determining whether they have an impact on a person's daily life.
Most often, therapists will work with the family member and patient to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other strategies for organization and educate the patient in metacognitive strategies, which involve identifying and modifying "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions about the lack of alternatives. Psychologists can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can help by providing a secure and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting an excellent sleep hygiene and avoiding stimulants. They should also encourage their child to interact with others, and make an effort to establish a healthy relationship with their partner.
School staff can provide valuable information on the learning and behavior of students However, they are not able to diagnose ADHD or make decisions about treatment. The parents of the child and their healthcare provider must make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.