ADHD Diagnosing
If diagnosed with ADHD, many people are relieved to understand the cause of their struggles at school, at work or in relationships. They can then move forward to improve their life skills, such as paying attention to directions, following instructions and staying organized.
A professional who conducts an ADHD assessment will speak to the person being evaluated and other people who are familiar with them, such as family members, teachers or coaches or religious leaders. They can also look over the previous records, including past report cards.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can impact your life in many ways. For instance, difficulty managing time can lead to problems such as missed appointments or missed deadlines. You might also have trouble with budgeting and finances, which can result in overspending or debt. You could also experience depression and low self-esteem. These symptoms can affect your personal and professional life.
A health professional will ask you questions about your behavior and how it affects your daily functioning. He or she will need to know the history of your experience with this disorder. The doctor will want to see that the symptoms have been present for at least six months in order to make an assessment. To be able to make a diagnosis made, the symptoms must result in significant impairments in multiple settings that include at work, at home, and during social interactions.
Hyperactivity is often the first indication of ADHD in children. Children who suffer from this disorder are unable to sit still, they flitter around their seats and often make careless mistakes in schoolwork or at work. These signs aren't seen as often in adults, but those suffering from the disorder may have trouble staying focused and may be troubled in their relationships.
People suffering from ADHD are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. They can also be more prone than others to mood swings and may feel disappointed and angry. They often blame themselves for their issues and are afflicted with low self-esteem and self-confidence. Some people may have trouble finding a job or maintaining one, and could suffer from substance abuse or eating disorder issues.
The doctor will require evidence that the symptoms of adult ADHD have been present for a prolonged period of time, that they hinder in everyday functioning, and aren't the result of any other mental or physical disorder. They will conduct interviews with parents, you and other caregivers and may use various tests and scales to determine the severity of symptoms. You may be asked to provide an example of your work. They will also look over your medical and family history and conduct physical examination.
Evaluation
The diagnosis of ADHD is a complicated process that involves many steps and specific considerations. A specialist can guide you through this process and help you get the treatment that you need. You'll want to find someone you trust. You can consult your family members, friends and your doctor for recommendations. Find out what the doctor charges, and what insurances the doctor accepts.
The evaluation process may take several hours. During the evaluation your health care professional will ask questions about the symptoms you or your child has been experiencing and the impact of these symptoms has been on your life. The provider will also ask you about your child's school, work performance and behavior. You will be asked about any medication you or your child currently taking.
Some doctors will also perform a neuropsychological or psychological assessment. These tests will determine whether you have ADHD or another mental disorder, such as anxiety or depression. These tests will look at your or your child's memory, reasoning abilities as well as spatial and visual skills. The examiner can also ask family members to provide feedback on your child's or your own symptoms.
A health professional employs various tools to assess ADHD. They include standardized ratings scales and a forensic interview. He or she will also review your child's history, interview babysitters, teachers and other family members and friends.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, at least two people who are familiar with the individual's behavior must recognize symptoms in at least two environments, such as home, school, or work. These symptoms must interfere with daily functioning and cannot be caused by a different issue, such as depression or anxiety.
A complete ADHD assessment will examine the person’s mood, medical history, and other factors which may affect the symptoms like learning disabilities or other mental health issues. These problems can occur by themselves or in combination with ADHD. ADHD symptoms can also be masked by certain head injuries, thyroid disorders, and medications, like stimulants.
Treatment
A formal diagnosis is the first step in managing ADHD symptoms which can cause chaos in everyday life. A doctor will evaluate a person's health overall as well as their family and personal history, and determine the severity of symptoms. The doctor will ask when symptoms started and if they have affected the person's life at school, work or at home. Also, he will inquire whether the person's condition has affected his ability to communicate and interact with his peers and friends.
A medical exam can be used to check for thyroid issues and other conditions which can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. A test that is specifically designed for ADHD that is called the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) System, is an non-invasive test that measures brain wave patterns and is approved for children ranging from six to 17.
If you suspect that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD, talk with your family doctor about getting an assessment. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist or suggest one. You can locate an ADHD specialist through an association of professionals or university-based hospitals, or support groups. You can also seek help from your health insurance provider to locate a certified mental health professional.
Psychotherapy and behavior therapy are treatment options for children, adults and teens with ADHD. They offer psychoeducation, which educates patients about ADHD and how to deal with it, as well as behavior management, which uses positive reinforcement and rewards to help teach self-control.
For those with mild symptoms, medications may be prescribed to minimize their effects. The medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants, which affect the brain to improve concentration and decrease impulsive actions. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (atomoxetine) dexamfetamine, dexamfetamine and Atomoxetine. These stimulants are offered in capsules, tablets and liquids. It is typically coupled with counseling and other therapies for behavioral problems.
Inform your doctor of any other medications that you are taking. This includes supplements and over-the counter drugs. Certain medications, including antidepressants and other psychotherapy drugs may interact with ADHD medications. Herbal remedies and other complementary health strategies have not been proven to improve ADHD symptoms or impairments.
Counseling
Untreated ADHD symptoms can cause problems at school, at work, and in relationships. The importance of a diagnosis is that it could cause other issues like substance abuse and feelings of anxiety or depression. However, getting a diagnosis may be difficult due the lack of access or expense. Websites that provide quick diagnoses (through consultations with telehealth or evaluations) can help you get the treatment you require.
Telehealth platforms that specialize on ADHD diagnosis typically ask patients to fill out questionnaires and scales aswell to describe their symptoms in depth. They may also ask for the contact details of caregivers, teachers and family members. This can help in identifying other conditions that mimic ADHD such as mood disorders and head injuries.
ADHD Diagnosis will then be able to provide an ADHD assessment. This may include a description of the symptoms and a written interview with the patient and caregivers as well as a medical and psychiatric evaluation and a recommendation for physical examination to rule out any other medical ailments. They may also conduct tests for blood or an imaging test, or conduct an interview with the patient.
Following an ADHD assessment the patient could be given medication or other treatment options. Some of the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD include stimulants that increase the levels norepinephrine, dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain. This reduces impulsivity. Other treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, neurofeedback and dialectical behavior therapy, are also effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
An in-depth evaluation of adults is essential due to the fact that adult ADHD symptoms are different from those of children. Adult ADHD is also harder to recognize, as the list of symptoms that are common to children isn't always applicable to adults.
In some cases, a telehealth service like Klarity or Done can provide an ADHD diagnosis for a single fee and prescribe medication if appropriate. While Hafeez is skeptical of these services, she recognizes that the demand for treatment for mental illness has increased, and the quick diagnosis via telehealth can be a good first step for anyone who suspects they have ADHD.