Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Adults are often not diagnosed until they are experiencing significant issues at home, at work or school. 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 full assessment includes ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales. Health professionals inquire about the family's history and look at old school records.
Symptoms
The signs of ADHD can affect a person's life at school, at home or at work. They can cause problems in relationships and careers, financial problems and even a driver's license. They can also lead to emotional distress. It's normal for people to struggle with concentration or staying organized from time to moment but if it develops into an ongoing issue that interferes with everyday functioning, a health provider may be able to determine ADHD.
A health professional will need to evaluate the individual in two different settings, including at home and in school, as well as in social and workplace situations. The health professional must be observing the person for a minimum of six months and determine if the symptoms are affecting their ability to function. The symptoms must have started before 12 years. 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 interfere with others.
Children with inattentive ADHD are unable to follow instructions and staying on task, or sitting down. They are often daydreaming or easily distracted. They are more likely to be ignored and omit learning opportunities, especially in the elementary school setting which could set for failure later on 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 trouble sitting or waiting for their turn, blurting out answers before questions are complete, and have trouble managing their emotions.
It is an exhilarating experience to receive an diagnosis of ADHD but it's not always an easy process. Some people may be embarrassed, but they need to be honest so they can get the help they deserve. For some, a diagnosis will be the first time they've realized that their struggles have a name. This knowledge can allow them to change their perception of themselves, leading to positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms manifest at different times in both adults and children. In children, symptoms usually begin in the first grade. For adults, symptoms begin slightly later. Symptoms 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 cases, the condition may be misdiagnosed as autism or a mood disorder such as anxiety or depression.
Speak to your doctor If your child or teenager is showing signs of ADHD. They will perform a physical examination, including vision and audio to ensure that there is no other issue. They will ask you and your child to complete an inventory of their symptoms. They will be interested in knowing how the symptoms have affected their family and school lives. They'll also want learn about any previous issues they've faced.
For adults, a medical professional who's qualified to diagnose ADHD will conduct behavioral interviews and clinical scales or symptom checklists to determine whether they meet the criteria for diagnosis. Psychological tests may be used to determine your cognitive abilities, and how you process information and think. They could also conduct a brain scan with the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) A tool that measures brain activity in certain parts of the brain that regulate your attention and impulsivity.
They will also look at your medical records to see whether there are any additional mental health issues or injuries, for example thyroid issues or head trauma which can trigger similar symptoms. They may refer you for an extensive evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist.
You must have six or more symptoms, that began in your childhood or before the age of 12. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum 6 months and be causing serious problems with your daily functioning. Adults need to meet an upper threshold for diagnosis, however the criteria are the same: You must exhibit at least five symptoms that interfere with your work, social and personal life.
Treatment
The aim of treatment is to alleviate symptoms and improve functioning at home, school and work. There are a variety of treatment options, such as medication and behavioral therapy. Some people also find success with lifestyle changes, for example, setting up a routine that is consistent, using a planner or notebook, and scheduling tasks ahead of time. Other people may benefit from specific learning disabilities treatments, like metacognitive therapy that helps to improve their organizational skills and problem-solving abilities as well as cognitive behavioral therapy to address the distortions in thinking which can lead to low moods and low self-esteem.
Specially trained health care professionals will provide the best treatment plan based on the patient's specific situation. They will look at the person's present symptoms and, if an adult, their previous behavior and school experiences. They will conduct clinical interviews, behavior rating scales and symptom checklists to determine whether the person is in compliance with diagnostic criteria for ADHD. They may also take the family history of mental health problems and physical illnesses. They will inquire about the person's moods, behaviors and how they've changed over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the presence of six or more signs that start before the age of 12 and cause difficulties in two or more settings (home school, social situations). The symptoms are expected to be present for at minimum six months. The symptoms should also be more severe than is normal for someone of this age.
A medical checkup is typically carried out to confirm that the patient does not have any other health issues. Doctors will review the person's symptoms and medical and psychiatric history and may recommend an eye exam or a hearing test. Some people with ADHD are genetically predisposed to the condition. A person who has a sibling or parent with ADHD has a 91% chance of develop the disorder. It's also common to have a comorbid mood or anxiety disorder in conjunction with ADHD. These disorders are more difficult to treat than ADHD alone.
Suggested Web page , including medical conditions, as well as certain types of learning disabilities, can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. It is therefore important to consult an expert in health care or mental health professional for an assessment prior to making a diagnosis. The person you see will ask your child about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. They may use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child suffers from ADHD. They may also perform a physical examination and test for hearing or vision issues. They may also order an EEG brain scan that evaluates beta and theta wave activity to determine changes in your child’s brain function.
Children who are diagnosed with ADHD have symptoms that are significantly greater than the norm for their age and development level. Inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity must cause serious problems at school, home, or work. The symptoms must also affect your child's ability to interact with other people. If your child has moderate or severe ADHD symptoms, they will need treatment with medication in order to live the normal life.
Children suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to follow directions and stay on task and can result in low self-esteem and grades. They may also have difficulties with social interactions as they are unable to read social cues and often interrupt others or appear aggressive or intense. They are at a high risk of developing anxiety, depression and addiction to drugs.
People who have mild ADHD have symptoms that are noticeable but do not affect their daily lives or make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate or severe ADHD are more prone to symptoms and are more likely to have issues with their jobs, like difficulty keeping a job, getting along with coworkers, or maintaining relationships.
If they do not seek treatment may suffer serious consequences. This could include financial problems as well as health and legal issues. There are a variety of treatments for ADHD. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions, nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement, and medication. NIMH provides more details about these options and ways to discuss these options with your family.