Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms cause major difficulties at school, at work or home. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) is utilized by health professionals to diagnose mental disorders.
A thorough assessment includes ADHD symptom lists and standardized behavior ratings scales. Health professionals also inquire about family history and look over old school records.
Symptoms
Symptoms of ADHD can impact the lives of a person at school, home, or at work. They can cause issues in relationships and careers, financial difficulties, or even a driver's licence. They can also cause emotional anxiety. It's normal for people to have trouble concentrating or staying organized from time to the time however, if it becomes a chronic problem and affects daily functioning, a health care specialist may be able determine ADHD.
A health professional will need to evaluate the person in two different settings, including at home and at school, as well as in workplace and social settings. The health care professional has to observe the person for at least six month and determine whether the symptoms are impacting their ability to perform. diagnosing adhd in adults must have begun before the age 12 years old. 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 have a difficult time waiting for their turn and often interrupt or intrude on others.
Children with inattention ADHD have trouble following directions and staying on task, or sat down. They are usually daydreaming or easily distracted. They are more likely to be missed and miss out on learning opportunities, particularly in primary schools, which can set up them for failure later 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 have difficulty waiting their turn or sitting still. They also have difficulty managing their emotions.
Being diagnosed with ADHD can be a relief but it's also not always easy to process. It's fine to be embarrassed. But, honesty is the best approach. For many, a diagnosis may be the first time they've realized that their issues have a name. This understanding can alter the way they view themselves, which could result in positive changes.
Diagnosis
When it concerns ADHD, symptoms show up at different times in children and adults. For children, symptoms typically begin in elementary school, but for adults, it's later. The signs may 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 could be misdiagnosed as autism or a mood disorder like anxiety or depression.
Speak to your doctor if your child or teenager exhibits indications of ADHD. They will do physical examinations, including vision and hearing, to make sure there's nothing else going on. Your child and you will be asked to write a list of symptoms. They will inquire about what the effects of their symptoms are on their school and home life. They'll also want hear about any past problems they've had.
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a doctor competent to do so. They will utilize clinical interviews, behavior rating scales or symptom checklists. Psychological tests can be used to determine your cognitive abilities and how you think and process information. They may also perform an examination of the brain using the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a device that measures brain activity in certain parts of the brain that regulate your attention and impulsivity.
They will also examine your medical records to determine if there are any other mental conditions or injuries, like thyroid or head trauma that can cause similar symptoms. They may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct a thorough assessment.
You must have six or more symptoms which began in childhood or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms must be present for at minimum six months and cause significant problems with your daily functioning. Adults need to have a lower threshold to be diagnosed, but the same criteria apply: You need to have a minimum of five or more symptoms, and these should affect your home, work and social life.
Treatment
Treatment aims to ease symptoms and improve functioning at home, work and at school. There are a variety of treatments available, including medication and behavioral therapy. Some people experience success through lifestyle changes, such as using an organizer, a notebook and arranging tasks ahead of time. Some people may benefit from learning disabilities therapies such as metacognitive therapy, which assists them in improving their problem-solving abilities and organizational abilities or cognitive behavioral treatment, which addresses thinking distortions that can lead to depression and low self-esteem.
Specially trained health care professionals will provide the best treatment plan based on a person's particular situation. They will examine the person's symptoms, and in the case of an adult, they will also consider their childhood and school experiences. They will use clinical interviewing, behavior rating scales and symptom checklists in order to determine if the person is in compliance with ADHD diagnostic criteria. They might also inquire about family history of mental illness and physical ailments. They'll ask the individual, their parents and teachers about their moods and behavior and how they've changed over time.
The diagnosis of ADHD is made based on six or more symptoms, which start before the age of 12 and can cause difficulties in at least two settings (at school, at home, or in social situations). The symptoms must be present for at least six months. The symptoms should also be more severe than is normal for someone that age.
There are no blood tests or brain scans to determine ADHD, but medical checks are usually done to make sure there's nothing else wrong with the person. Doctors will look over the patient's medical and psychiatric records and look over their symptoms. They may also recommend an eye or hearing test. Some people with ADHD are genetically predisposed to the condition. If a person has a parent or a sibling with ADHD they are at risk of having 91% of the chance of developing the disorder themselves. It's also common to suffer from a comorbid mood disorder or anxiety disorder that is associated with ADHD. These conditions can be more difficult to treat than ADHD alone.
Prevention
Many things, like certain medical conditions and learning disabilities, can lead to symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. It's important to consult a mental health professional or health care provider for an assessment prior to making a diagnosis. The doctor will inquire about your child's symptoms and how they affect their daily life. They may use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child has ADHD. They can also conduct an examination and test for hearing or vision problems. They can also request an EEG brain scan that measures beta and theta waves to determine changes in your child’s brain function.
To be considered a child with ADHD, they must have several symptoms that are noticeably greater than what is normal for their age or developmental level. The symptoms of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity have to cause serious problems at home, school or at work. The symptoms must also affect your child's ability to interact with others. If your child suffers from severe or moderate ADHD They will require medication to lead a normal life.
Children suffering from ADHD may have trouble following instructions and staying on track. This can result in low grades and a lack of self-esteem. They may also have difficulties with social relationships because they are unable to read social cues and frequently interrupt others or come off as violent or aggressive. They are at a high risk for depression, anxiety, and alcohol abuse.
Mild ADHD is defined by symptoms that are apparent but do not hinder daily life. They can making it difficult to maintain relationships or work. adhd diagnosis uk adults with moderate or severe ADHD will have more symptoms, and they are more likely to have problems at work, such as difficulties keeping a job or getting along with colleagues.
People who don't receive treatment may face serious consequences. This could include financial problems, health issues, and legal issues. There are many treatments for ADHD. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions including nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement and medication. NIMH provides more details about these options and how to discuss them with your family members.