ADHD Diagnosis
Children suffering from ADHD are incapable of sitting still, pay attention or behave in impulsive ways. Their symptoms have been evident for at least six months, and are much more severe than what is expected for their age or developmental level.
Experts identify ADHD by conducting questionnaires, interviews with parents and teachers, and school performance records. They also take into account the history of the patient and any mental health issues.
Diagnosing ADHD
For those with ADHD being diagnosed with ADHD can provide relief and acceptance. However, receiving an official diagnosis can be emotional, especially in the event that a person isn't planning to take medication as part of their treatment.
A trained professional to diagnose ADHD will examine the history and symptoms of your child or you. They'll inquire about when the symptoms first started and whether they've become worse over time. They'll also look at your child's or your development, mental health and lifestyle. They might also talk to coaches, teachers, or other adults who know your child.
The objective is to determine whether you or your child has symptoms that meet the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition (DSM-V)1. That includes six or more ADHD symptoms that are significantly affecting with daily functioning and cannot be explained by other causes like issues at school or at home or nutrition issues, or medical disorders like sleep disorders or anxiety.
Your doctor will also look at past behavior and performance in addition to the DSM-V Criteria. They'll look at how long you or your child take to complete tasks, if they tend to make careless errors or are unable to sit still. They'll also consider if you or your child have a history of depression, anxiety or mood disorders which can often coexist with ADHD.
A history of physical trauma, birth complications or an abnormal thyroid gland can also influence the outcome of a ADHD assessment. They also will look for other conditions, such as bipolar disorder or learning disabilities.
In a face-to-face ADHD assessment your child or you could take one of a variety of ADHD tests, including the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid System (NEBA). The instrument analyzes brain waves and is recommended for children aged between 6 and 17. ADHD testing is only one aspect of a complete assessment.
Signs and symptoms of ADHD
People with ADHD have a different way of using brain networks to send and relay messages. They have difficulty focusing their attention and controlling their behavior which can cause problems at home as well as at school. They tend to make decisions without considering the consequences or the needs of others. They are often guilty of making mistakes at work and in school. If symptoms persist for more than 6 months and disrupt daily school life and in the community, the disorder is diagnosed.
Doctors typically employ standardized behavior rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine if an individual has the right criteria for a diagnosis. They may also ask the patient to describe their issues in their own words. They also talk to people who are familiar with the patient like a sibling or spouse for adults, or a teacher or coach for children. These interviews can provide valuable insights that cannot be gleaned through questionnaires or tests.
ADHD symptoms can occur at any age, however they usually begin in the early years of childhood. When diagnosing a patient doctors should consider the problems they had in their early years. They may ask to see old school records or talk to the patient's parents or teachers about their concerns as an infant.
Many people who have ADHD are not diagnosed until later in life because they could have compensated for their difficulties in childhood employing tricks or strategies to learn. As they struggle to manage work with family and other obligations, their symptoms can be more obvious. Women and girls are able to hide their symptoms more effectively than men and boys. This makes diagnosis more difficult.
Although the cause of ADHD isn't known, researchers believe that genetics and certain environmental factors contribute to the development of this disorder. The prenatal exposure to nicotine, alcohol or other substances may increase the risk of developing the disorder. The early loss of attachment and trauma could trigger the disorder. The symptoms are linked to chemical changes that affect the nervous system during critical periods of development.
Medication for ADHD
In a typical examination, a health professional will conduct an interview with you or your child. They will ask you about the symptoms you or your child have been experiencing, their frequency, and the problems they cause. They might also speak to other people who are in your life, including family members, teachers and coaches to help them develop an accurate picture of you or the child's behavior.
Providers may use an inventory of ADHD symptoms to determine if you or your child meets diagnostic criteria for the disorder. They will also take into consideration other disorders such as anxiety and mood disorders that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
Adults with ADHD who are diagnosed with the disorder typically take prescription medication to treat their symptoms. Stimulants, including products which contain amphetamine and methylphenidate, appear to boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. In some adults, these medications can also improve their ability to think clearly and make good decisions. Nonstimulants, such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants, are also options. adhd adult diagnosis uk work slower than stimulants, and are typically beneficial when you or your child can't take stimulants because of other medical issues or severe adverse effects.
The treatment of children suffering from ADHD is dependent on parents actively participating in therapy sessions. Parents learn how to better communicate with their child and help them at home and at school. Therapists can also help parents learn strategies for managing stress and parenting skills that will assist them in coping with the demands of a child with ADHD.
Certain people suffering from ADHD have psychiatric issues that are co-occurring, such as depression and anxiety that must be treated simultaneously with they are ADHD symptoms. A psychologist or psychiatrist who is trained to treat ADHD is often in close contact with a mental specialist who can treat coexisting disorders. Therapists can assist people suffering from ADHD to develop coping and organizing abilities that improve their relationships and overall quality. They can also suggest classes that teach problem-solving and social skills.
Treatment for ADHD
Many different treatments are available for adults and children with ADHD. Your doctor will assist you to determine the best treatment plan for either your child or adult. Treatment options include medication, behavioral therapy, and family counseling. Psychoeducation and support groups can also be helpful.
Your child's behavior will be evaluated by your health care professional to determine if they are suffering from ADHD. They may ask questions about your child's behavior at school, home, and in social situations. They will also look at your child's mood and medical history, and look for other conditions that could cause signs of ADHD such as seizure disorders and sleep apnea.
People with the most common kind of ADHD show problems with hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. This presentation is more common among children in the early years and is easy to spot because children who have this type of disorder often fidget, talk a lot or struggle to sit still. They aren't able to pay attention at school, as well as other settings such as family or community events.
It isn't always easy to identify other types of ADHD because they manifest in a variety of ways. For example, some adults show inattention, but do not exhibit the hyperactivity or impulsivity which is usually seen in younger people. These adults may have a hard time keeping jobs or staying on track in their work or may become annoyed easily and struggle with relationships.
Some people with ADHD are also prone to anxiety or depression. These people need a different treatment plan that includes psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy). undiagnosed adhd in adults for your mental health professional to assess these additional symptoms in addition to the ADHD symptoms.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD. They can be taken by mouth or through a nose spray (liquid) or patch. They are generally safe for the majority of people, however there is a chance of adverse reactions, such as slowing heart rate, decreased appetite and a worsening of mood in some people.
Other supplements and medications may help some people with ADHD. These include omega-3 fatty acids as well as vitamins C and E. They can help improve concentration and reduce irritability.