How to Diagnose ADHD
To diagnose ADHD The professionals conduct clinical interviews behavioral rating scales, symptoms checklists that are which are completed by the patient and others in their life, as well as psychiatric histories and medical information. Psychotherapy can also be used to treat symptoms.
To be diagnosed with ADHD you must exhibit at least six symptoms that started before age 12 and affect your daily activities in two settings (home and school, and social settings). It is important to get the correct diagnosis prior to making a decision on a treatment plan.
The history of symptoms
If a patient decides to visit an ADHD specialist the doctor will look over their symptoms and determine whether or not they meet the diagnostic criteria for the disorder. These are outlined in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To be considered a diagnosis, the symptoms must be present for at minimum six months. The person must have at minimum five ADHD symptoms that are ongoing and they must interfere with functioning in at least two different settings like school or at work. The person's ADHD symptoms are not a result of any other mental health condition.
The doctor will begin by interviewing the patient to inquire about their symptoms and the impact they have on their lives. They'll also inquire about family history and the person's medical and psychiatric history.
People who suffer from ADHD often have trouble organizing their tasks or completing them. They might miss work or personal appointments. They have a difficult time paying attention during lectures or conversations and are easily distracted by calls to the phone or television shows. They may be agitated or fidgety often, speak too much and interrupt others, or have difficulty waiting their turn in games or activities. Adults with ADHD might have difficulty making decisions, staying on track and avoiding their hands from things they shouldn't.
If ADHD symptoms aren't addressed they could cause serious consequences, like traffic violations and accidents. They can also cause issues in relationships and be difficult to live around. Being diagnosed can help someone take control of their life and manage their symptoms with medications, lifestyle modifications, or therapy.
The stigma that surrounds ADHD can prevent people from seeking help or requesting an assessment. People who suffer from ADHD are often accused of being lazy or unwilling to make an effort. They also face the risk of being overlooked in the work place due to a shortage of child and adolescent psychiatrists and face obstacles in accessing psychiatric treatment such as stigma and a fear about the risks and adverse effects.
Physical Examination
It is essential to find an expert in mental health or a doctor who has experience in the diagnosis of ADHD. The person you choose could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or family doctor. A thorough evaluation must include a medical interview and the using diagnostic tests, and the completion of questionnaires. The examiner will also ask questions regarding the person's medical history as well as his or her development and behavior dating back to the time of childhood. It can be helpful for the examiner to speak with people who know the patient such as spouse, siblings or parents for an adult as well as religious leaders, teachers coaches, scout leaders and coaches for children -- to collect information on their observations of the child's behavior in different environments.
A physical exam is required to rule out any health conditions which could trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. These include thyroid diseases, vision and hearing issues or sleep disorders. A X-ray and other tests for the lab may be required in addition.
The most valuable information is what the patient tells the doctor about their own issues and how they've had an impact on the person's life. It is essential that the doctor listens to the patient's words. Rushing through an ADHD evaluation is a recipe for misdiagnosis and missing crucial information.
Experts agree that ADHD can only be diagnosed in adults when the symptoms were present during childhood. It is not common for a person to "outgrow" ADHD, but the new responsibilities or changes in life can cause it to manifest in adults. Someone may have trouble in completing the requirements of a new job that requires frequent meetings.
It's a good idea to take children to see an expert when issues first occur. This increases the chances that the problem can be diagnosed and treated quickly, and also reduces the chance of a wrong diagnosis that can have serious long-term consequences. Parents can ask their school counselor or principal to refer them to a medical professional who is able to assess ADHD. Adults should ask friends and family members for recommendations or call an organization that supports local residents to get names of qualified specialists. A person may also contact his or their primary care physician or a psychiatric institution for a list of specialists.
Psychological Tests
Psychological testing is an essential part of the process to determine ADHD. Iampsychiatry can confirm the diagnosis and provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the symptoms and their impact on a individual's life. Tests can also reveal other mental health issues that may be associated with ADHD like depression or anxiety. It can also help in determining accommodations and interventions.
For children, there are numerous psychological tests that can be used to assess for ADHD. These include rating scales, direct behavioral observations, and neuropsychological tests. There are also interviews with parents and teachers to get a complete understanding of the child's life.
Diagnosing ADHD for adults is more difficult. The DSM-V is designed to identify children. For adults, the best way to make an accurate diagnosis is to schedule a clinical interview with a specialist who is experienced with ADHD and takes the time to look over the patient's medical background. Some healthcare professionals use computer programs to measure the level of impulsivity and attention. Brain scans can also be used.
The time needed to conduct a comprehensive psychological assessment can vary however, one can expect to spend a day at the clinic or hospital to undergo a complete neuropsychological assessment for ADHD. This is a modest amount of time for clear, informed answers and a plan of action that can improve the quality of life. It is not uncommon for patients to feel overwhelmed by their results, especially those who have had undiagnosed ADHD for a long time, or perhaps for a long time.
Online ADHD self-assessments claim that they provide an accurate, scientifically validated diagnosis of your symptoms. These self-assessments are not recommended by most mental health experts, as they do not take into account the complexity of psychiatric disorders and how their symptoms impact the way people live their daily lives. A qualified healthcare professional who follows the DSM guidelines can only provide an official ADHD diagnosis. You can find a certified healthcare provider through your family doctor or ask colleagues and friends who have expertise in ADHD for referrals.
Family History
Currently, under DSM-5 guidelines, a child must demonstrate symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity in two or more settings, including home and school, before a diagnosis can be made. Adults may be diagnosed with ADHD if they meet the criteria in a single setting.
The health care professional who conducts the exam will interview the patient. She will ask questions regarding the symptoms and their effects on the daily activities. She will also inquire about the person's family history and medical background. She will likely employ a checklist or standardized rating system to determine if the symptoms are ADHD. She will also request information from different sources, including coaches, teachers, Scout and religious leaders and family members and friends who spend a large deal of time with the person being evaluated.
A thorough psychiatric history will include a description of symptoms by both the patient and his caregivers, the completion of rating scales or questionnaires by the patient and his family members, and a review of a person's education, surroundings and upbringing. A mental health specialist or physician can also conduct tests to determine whether the patient's symptoms are related to another condition like depression or anxiety disorders.
Finding out if you have ADHD in adults can be a challenge because the majority of the DSM-5 symptom guide is geared toward children. A health professional with ADHD experience will typically conduct a medical interview to determine the diagnosis. She will ask both the patient and anyone who knows him well, such as his spouse or close friends, if he has ADHD-related issues. She will also inquire about the presence of other disorders that may interfere with concentration such as depression or drug abuse.
Ask your primary care physician for an appointment with a medical professional who is qualified in ADHD evaluations. You can also inquire with a local ADHD support group or a mental health group to receive recommendations. Many insurance plans also have specialists listed by specialization, and you can check with yours to see whether they have ADHD specialists in your area.