Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults don't receive diagnosis until their symptoms cause major problems at work, school or home. Health professionals follow the diagnostic criteria 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 symptom checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health professionals also inquire about family history and review old school records.
Symptoms
ADHD symptoms can impact the daily routine of a person regardless of whether they are at home, school or work. They can cause issues in relationships and careers, financial issues, or even a driver's permit. They can also cause emotional anxiety. It's normal for everyone to have difficulty concentrating or staying organized from time time however, if it becomes an ongoing problem that interferes with everyday functioning, a health professional may be able to identify ADHD.
A health care professional must assess the individual in two different settings, including at home and in school, or in social and workplace situations. The health care professional must observe the person for at least six months and determine whether the symptoms are impacting their ability to perform. The symptoms also must 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 often are in a hurry to finish their work, and they interrupt or interfere with other children.
Children with inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions and staying on task, or sitting down. They are usually wandering off or distracted. They are more likely to be ignored and omit opportunities to learn, particularly in the elementary school setting which could prepare 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 are unable to sit or waiting for their turn, blurt out answers before the questions are finished and have trouble managing their emotions.
It is it's a relief to get an diagnosis of ADHD however, it's not always simple. People might be embarrassed, but they need to be honest in order that they receive the help they're entitled to. For some, it will be the first time they've realized that their struggles have a name. This understanding will help them alter the way they view themselves, resulting in positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms appear at different times in both adults and children. For children, they usually begin in elementary school, but for adults it's a little later. The symptoms 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 can be misdiagnosed as autistic or a mood disorder like anxiety or depression.
If your child or teen is showing symptoms of ADHD, the first step is to talk to your doctor. They will conduct a physical exam, including vision and hearing to ensure there's nothing else going on. Your child and you will be asked to write a list of symptoms. They will be interested in knowing how the symptoms have affected their home and school life. They will also want to know about any problems that you have had previously.
Adults can be diagnosed with ADHD by a healthcare provider qualified to do so. They will utilize clinical interviews, behavior rating scales, or symptoms checklists. Psychological tests can be used to determine your cognitive abilities, and how you think and process information. They could also conduct a brain scan using the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which measures the activity of certain areas of your brain that regulate attention and impulsivity.
In addition, they will look at your medical history to determine whether you've experienced any other mental health problems or injuries, such as head trauma or thyroid conditions which can trigger similar symptoms. They may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a thorough evaluation.
To get a diagnosis of ADHD you must exhibit at least six or more symptoms that started in childhood, or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms must be present for at least six months, and cause significant problems with your daily functioning. Adults must be able to meet a lower threshold in order to be diagnosed, but the same criteria apply: You need to have at least five or more symptoms, and they must affect your home, work and social life.
Treatment
The aim of treatment is to alleviate symptoms and improve functioning at school, home and at work. There are a range of treatment options, including medications and behavior therapy. Some people also find satisfaction with lifestyle changes, for example, establishing consistent routines by using a planner notebook, and scheduling tasks in advance. Other people may benefit from specific learning disability therapies, such as metacognitive training that helps them develop their organizational skills and problem-solving abilities or cognitive behavioral therapy to address thinking distortions which can lead to low moods and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who have been specially trained in diagnosing ADHD can recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for a patient's situation. They will look at the person's current symptoms and, if an adult, their childhood behaviour and schooling experiences. They will employ clinical interviewing, scales for assessing behavior, and symptom checklists to determine if the person is in compliance with ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also inquire about family history of mental illnesses and physical illnesses. They will inquire about the person's moods, behaviors and how they have changed over time.
The diagnosis of ADHD is made based on six or more signs, that begin before the age of 12 and can cause difficulties in at least two settings (at school, at home or in social situations). The symptoms must have been present for at least 6 months. The symptoms should also be more severe than what is normal for someone of this age.
A medical exam is usually performed to make sure that the person doesn't have any other health issues. Doctors will review the person's symptoms and medical and psychiatric history, and may suggest an eye examination or hearing test. Certain people suffering from ADHD are genetically predisposed to the disorder. If a person has a parent or sibling with ADHD they are at risk of having 91% of the chance of being diagnosed with the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by a mood or anxiety disorder. These disorders are more difficult to treat than ADHD by itself.
Prevention
Many things, such as certain medical conditions or learning disabilities, can cause symptoms that are similar to those of ADHD. So it's important to see your health care provider or a mental health professional for an evaluation before making the diagnosis. The person you see will ask your child about their symptoms and how they impact their daily lives. They can also use ratings scales or a checklist to determine if your child is suffering from ADHD. They may also do physical examinations and tests for hearing or vision problems. They can also request an EEG brain scan which 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 developmental level. The symptoms of inattention, impulsivity and/or hyperactivity have to cause serious problems at home, school or at work. The symptoms must also affect your child's ability to interact with other people. If your child is suffering from moderate or severe ADHD They will require medication to live a normal life.
Children suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to follow instructions and stay on task, which can lead to low self-esteem and grades. They may also have difficulty with social interactions, since they are unable to read social cues. diagnosis adhd are often disruptive to others and appear aggressive or intense. They are at risk of depression, anxiety as well as substance abuse and issues with relationships.
Mild ADHD is characterized by symptoms that are visible but do not interfere in everyday life. It can make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate to severe ADHD are more likely to experience symptoms, and are more likely to experience problems at work, such as difficulty keeping a job, or interacting with colleagues.
Patients who do not receive treatment can have serious consequences, including health issues, financial troubles, and legal issues. There are many treatments available for ADHD which include psychosocial therapy and behavioral therapy, diet and nutrition, exercise sleep improvements, and medications. NIMH has more information on these options and how to speak with your family members about these options.