How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, but it can affect adults too. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in a person's life.
An assessment for ADHD may involve interviewing the person and family members. The specialist may look over old school records to determine if the symptoms started as an infant.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying well-organized from time to time however, for those who suffers from ADHD, these problems interfere with school, work and home life. To be diagnosed with the disorder, one must show signs of major impairment in at least two of these areas and demonstrate that the symptoms significantly affect daily functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To make a diagnosis, doctors will talk to the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about their family history and medical problems. They can also use rating scales that measure a adult's or a child's symptoms. These questionnaires are often based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.
In adults, doctors may ask to speak with someone else in the family or who are familiar with the patient. This is not to question the patient's honesty, but rather to gain insight into their behavior that can't be obtained from a questionnaire. They might inquire about childhood behavior and refer to old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an examination and lab tests to rule out any other health conditions, such as thyroid problems or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The provider will also review the medication list of a patient. Doctors will look at the interactions between stimulants and specific medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other conditions. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to talk to their primary healthcare providers in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in two or more settings (like school, home and at work) and seriously hinder functioning. The symptoms must be evident before the age of 12 and can't be caused by another disorder like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will use a variety of tools during the evaluation which include ADHD symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed medical history. They may also interview family members or friends to determine how the symptoms affect them. They will ask if the symptoms are similar to those of other mental health conditions or physical ailments.
The evaluators will consider whether symptoms are mild moderate, severe or even mild. They will also review the person's medical history and family history to determine if there isn't any underlying cause for their issues like thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In some cases the examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or request that the person take an imaging test to rule out other causes of their symptoms such as learning disabilities. People with these disorders often show different symptoms than those without these problems. Boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactive symptoms, while girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to try out new treatments. This is a great chance to conduct further research. However, participants should be aware that the main objective of these studies is scientific knowledge, not an assurance of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect you may have ADHD Find a doctor who is certified to diagnose the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire for confirmation if ADHD specialists will be covered. You could also ask your family physician or other healthcare providers for referrals. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a good choice.
A doctor will inquire with the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and request information from other people in the patient's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insights can provide more information than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to review any records that the individual may have, particularly old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by the past of an individual. To be diagnosed the symptoms must have been present since the age of a child (technically, before the age 12).
A physical exam is often performed. It will look for any other medical problems that could be causing the symptoms, for example, seizures or thyroid issues. A neurological examination is often performed by a specialist to assess the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, designed to measure abilities and intelligence, may be used as well. In addition one could be asked to complete simple computer tasks that evaluate attention and memory. This could assist an expert determine whether someone is hyperactive or inattentive. The specialist will determine a treatment plan and make an assessment. Treatment plans typically include medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help children and adults learn healthy coping strategies and alter unhelpful thought patterns. This therapy is usually performed by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medications, however it's not the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination can be beneficial for children, teens, and adults. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn to manage these symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and ways to manage it. adhd adult diagnosis uk can also involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It is crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health care professional who has experience in treating ADHD. You can seek suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or perform an online search. It is best to locate an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The doctor will ask you or your child about the signs and problems caused by ADHD. They will do an examination of the body and look for other health problems that could cause similar symptoms. They will go over the medical and family history of your child or you, as well as school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is primarily designed to diagnose children and adolescents, has a harder diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your health care provider might interview you or your children about the symptoms and have others who spend a lot of time with them fill out checklists and questionnaires. They will use these to help them decide whether you or your child has inattentive ADHD, hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, combined ADHD or unspecified ADHD. ADHD medications include stimulants like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. Therefore, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment which teaches techniques such as time and task management as well as emotional self-regulation.
In addition, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms through lifestyle changes. For example an exercise routine that is regularly practiced can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is crucial too. People who suffer from ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar and less fruit and vegetables. Also making social and family relationships a priority can lower stress levels and allow people to feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid children and adults to understand their challenges. A child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating their demands to their teachers or friends. Once a teacher realizes that this is not an issue that is solely because of a lack of time, they can provide accommodations.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions that are geared towards the person's age, interview family members and teachers, review medical records, and look for comorbidities. For adults, school records might be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood.
The doctor will also look for any vision or hearing problems with hearing or vision. They may also do an analysis of blood to check for specific hormones and other health issues that could cause symptoms of ADHD.