Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults don't get diagnosed until their symptoms create major difficulties at school, at work or home. Health professionals 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 care professionals also ask about family history and look over old school records.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can have a negative impact on the way a person lives their life regardless of whether they are at home, school or at work. They can disrupt relationships and work, leading to financial issues or a driver's license and even create emotional distress for the person. It is common for people to struggle keeping their attention or staying organized occasionally. However, if the problem is persistent and affects the daily activities, a healthcare provider may be able diagnose ADHD.
A health care professional will need to evaluate the person in two different environments, such as at home and at school, as well as in workplace and social settings. They need to observe the person in these environments for at least six months, and they must determine that the symptoms are hindering their ability to perform. The signs must also have begun before 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 are usually not able to wait for their turn and are often disruptive or interfere with other children.
Children with inattentive ADHD have trouble following directions, staying on task or sitting still. They're usually daydreaming or forgetful, and are easily distracted by their surroundings. They're more likely to be left out and miss opportunities to learn, especially in elementary school, which can set them up for failure later on 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 questions are complete, and have trouble managing their emotions.
Being diagnosed with ADHD can be a great relief however, it's not always easy to process. Some people may be ashamed, but they have to be honest in order that they receive the help they're entitled to. For many, a diagnosis may be the first time they've realized their problems have a. This understanding can alter the way they think about themselves, which may cascade into positive changes.
Diagnosis
When it concerns ADHD, symptoms show up at different times for children and adults. For kids, they typically begin in elementary school, but for adults it's a little later. The signs could be mild, moderate or even 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 a sign of autism or a mood disorder like depression or anxiety.
Consult your doctor if your child or teenager is showing indications of ADHD. They will conduct physical examinations, including vision and hearing, to make sure there isn't something else going on. Your child and you will be asked to write the list of symptoms. They will also ask how the symptoms have affected their school and personal life. They'll also want to know about any previous problems.
Adults are diagnosed with ADHD by a healthcare provider competent to do so. They may conduct clinical interviews, use behavior rating scales or symptom checklists. Psychological tests may be used to determine your cognitive abilities and how you process information and think. They could also conduct an examination of your brain using the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid, which is FDA-approved (NEBA), which analyzes the activity of specific areas of your brain that regulate the ability to focus and impulsivity.
They will also examine your medical records to see whether there are any other mental health issues or injuries, like head trauma or thyroid problems that could cause similar symptoms. They might refer you for an extensive evaluation with a psychiatrist or psychologist.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have a minimum of six or more symptoms that began in your childhood or before age 12. The symptoms should have been present for at least six months and be causing significant difficulties in your daily life. Adults must meet a lower threshold to be diagnosed, however the same criteria apply: You must have a minimum of five or more symptoms, and they must affect your work, home and social life.
Treatment
Treatment aims to improve symptoms and restore functioning at home, work and school. There are many different treatments available, including medication and behavioral therapy. Many people have success through lifestyle changes, for example, creating a consistent routine by using a planner notebook and scheduling tasks ahead of time. Some people might benefit from learning disabilities therapies like metacognitive therapy which aids them in improving their problem-solving abilities and organizational abilities or cognitive behavioral treatment that addresses the distortions in thinking that can lead to depression and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who have been specially trained to recognize ADHD can suggest the most effective treatment plan for a patient's situation. They will evaluate the symptoms of the patient, and in the case of an adult, also their school and childhood experiences. They will use clinical interviewing, scales for assessing behavior and symptom checklists in order to determine if a person meets ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also ask about family history of mental illness and physical conditions. They will inquire about the person's moods, behavior and changes over time.
The diagnosis of ADHD is made by analyzing six or more signs, that begin before the age of 12 and create difficulties in at least two settings (at school, at home, or in social situations). The symptoms have to be present for at minimum six months. The symptoms must also be more severe than what is normal for someone that age.
A medical exam is usually performed to make sure that the person isn't suffering from any other health problems. Doctors will review the person's symptoms, as well as their medical and psychiatric history, and may suggest an eye exam or hearing test. adhd diagnosis uk adult with ADHD are genetically predisposed to this condition. If a person has a parent or a sibling with ADHD and is a child, they have 91% chance of developing the disorder for themselves. ADHD is often associated with a mood or anxiety disorder. These conditions can be more difficult to manage than ADHD by itself.
The following is a list of preventions.
Many things, including some medical conditions and certain kinds of learning disabilities could cause similar symptoms as those of ADHD. So it's important to see an expert in health care or mental health professional for an assessment prior to making a diagnosis. The professional will inquire with your child about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. They can also utilize rating scales or a checklist to help decide if your child has ADHD. adhd in adults undiagnosed may also perform a physical examination and test for hearing or visual problems. They may also request an examination of the brain, known as an EEG, which examines beta and theta waves to check for changes in your child's brain function.
Children who are diagnosed with ADHD must show symptoms that are significantly more than what is normal for their age and developmental level. Inattention, hyperactivity, and/or an impulsive behavior can create serious problems at home, school, or work. The symptoms should also interfere with your child's social interactions. If your child exhibits moderate or severe ADHD symptoms and needs treatment, they'll need to be treated with medication to lead the normal life.
Children with ADHD may have difficulty following directions and staying focused. This can result in lower grades and a loss of self-esteem. They may also have difficulty with social interactions, since they are unable to recognize social signals. They frequently interrupt others and appear aggressive or intense. They are at risk of developing depression, anxiety, and alcohol abuse.
Mild ADHD is characterized by symptoms that are evident but do not hinder daily life. They can making it difficult to maintain relationships or work. People who suffer from severe or moderate ADHD are more prone to symptoms and are more likely to experience problems with work, for example, difficulty keeping an occupation, getting along with colleagues or maintaining relationships.
People who don't receive treatment could face serious consequences. This could include financial problems and health issues, as well as legal issues. There are a variety of treatments for ADHD. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions as well as nutrition and diet exercise, sleep improvement and medication. NIMH has more information on these options and how to talk with your family about these options.