How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. adhd diagnosis in adults uk will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A significant event, like pregnancy or a crisis in a relationship, triggers awareness of the problem. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to obtain a diagnosis.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with being still, waiting for their turn and paying attention in schools and other settings, those who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD have these issues in a way that impairs functioning at home, in school or at work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should have been present for at least six months and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental stage. In addition, they must be causing significant pain and difficulties at home, school or work, and also in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires an extensive clinical assessment by a certified health professional. This may include a thorough physical exam and a look for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to thyroid disease or depression. The health professional may also look over the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children, the questions are usually targeted towards their age, and parents may be interviewed too.
The doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Association's guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in adults and children as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The provider will review the person's current symptoms and previous behavior, focusing on the ways they affect their family, social, and professional lives. If possible the therapist may also review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will determine if they suffer from mental health issues that is co-occurring, as well as the presence of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who have the disorder are more prone to develop it.
If a doctor suspects someone has ADHD, they will perform a full clinical evaluation. This involves examining the person's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms over a time of several weeks. They can also ask the person about any other conditions they have, and use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the individual is in compliance with any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can perform screening and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an extensive medical examination which includes a thorough evaluation of vision and hearing. A specialist may recommend the brain scan, also called an EEG-Based Assessment Tool, or NEBA, to measure the concentration of beta and theta waves within the brain. This type of scan is a safe, noninvasive method to screen people for ADHD.
The examiner will review the patient's medical history, including his psychiatric and medical background that goes back to childhood. The doctor will also discuss the person's current symptoms and ways of coping. The doctor checks 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).
The doctor may ask teachers and other staff members who spend a lot of time with children to fill out checklists or questionnaires. They may also ask parents fill out these forms. For adults, he or she will often discuss marriage with spouses and other close friends and also co-workers and might also interview someone from the family who knows the person from their 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. He or she will determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and whether they cause problems at home, at the workplace, at school or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional should also screen for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. They should also check for physical causes for the individual's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep disorders. A thorough examination will also examine the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging the school staff to observe their child closely, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patience. adhd in adults undiagnosed can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques like meditation or yoga. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can improve the ability of a lot of children with ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should avoid foods that are high in sugar and drinks that can worsen their symptoms. They should also get enough sleep.
Symptoms of ADHD can persist throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties in their work or relationships. A doctor will conduct an evaluation to determine whether a person is suffering from ADHD and how severe it is. The evaluation typically includes a mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the person and their parents, spouse or a life partner, and others who know the person well. The provider may ask for a list of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. They might also employ rating scales and other tests to confirm that the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. He or she may also ask about any medical conditions that could be a cause of ADHD symptoms, like thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If a person is identified as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to control symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD as well as in children as well as adults. They are able to cause side effects, so a person should only take them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications he or she is taking, because certain drugs can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD have to test a variety of types and dosages before settling on one that works for them.
Prevention
In some cases the reduction of exposure to triggers from the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These can include diet, sleeping habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can help you in identifying ways to control triggers and refer you to a dietitian for nutritional advice or for additional assistance.
Children can also be helped by keeping their routines the same by limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Beware of dietary supplements that do not have scientific backing or may be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who believe they have ADHD should see an expert in mental health like psychologist or psychiatrist for a diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct an examination of the body and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe the patient's behavior and use standard ratings scales. The therapist will also consider the presence and duration of core ADHD symptoms, and if they affect a person's life.
Often, a therapist will work with the family and patient to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other strategies for organization, and train the patient in metacognitive strategies that involve identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that lead to negative moods and perceptions of a lack of alternatives. Psychologists can prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can help by providing a stable family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an appropriate sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. They should encourage their child to be social and build a healthy relationship with their child's partner.
The staff at the school can offer valuable information regarding the behavior and learning challenges of the child however, they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions must be taken by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with the support of each other.