Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults don't receive diagnosis until their symptoms cause serious difficulties at school, at work or home. Health care providers follow the diagnostic criteria of 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 care professionals will inquire about the family's history, and look at the school records from the past.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can impact the way a person lives their life regardless of whether at home, school or at work. They can cause problems in relationships and careers, financial issues or even a driver's permit. They can also trigger emotional anxiety. adhd adults diagnosis for people to struggle in concentrating or staying organized at times. However, if the problem becomes chronic and interferes with daily functioning, a healthcare professional may be able to diagnose ADHD.
To determine if someone is diagnosed with ADHD the health professional must assess the patient in at least two different settings, which could include home and school or workplace and social situations. They should observe the person in these environments for at least six months and determine that the symptoms are hindering their ability to perform. The signs must also have begun before the age of 12 years old. 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. adhd diagnosis adult uk have difficulty waiting for their turn and often interrupt or interfere with others.
Children with inattentive ADHD have difficulty following instructions and staying on task, or sat down. They are often distracted or snoozing. They are more likely to be overlooked and omit opportunities to learn, particularly in the elementary school setting which could set them for failure later 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 they are complete, and have trouble managing their emotions.
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD can be a great relief but it's also difficult to comprehend. It's normal to be embarrassed. However honesty is the best policy. For some, a diagnosis 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, which can lead to positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms manifest at different time points in adults and children. In children, symptoms usually begin in the middle of elementary school. For adults, symptoms begin somewhat 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 disorder is misdiagnosed. It could be autism or a mood disorders like depression or anxiety.
If your child or teen shows signs of ADHD the first step is to talk to your doctor. They will conduct an examination of the body that includes hearing and vision to ensure there isn't something other than ADHD. You and your child will be asked to complete the list of symptoms. They will want to know how their symptoms have affected their family and school life. They will also want to be informed about any past issues they've had.
For adults, a healthcare professional who's qualified to diagnose ADHD will conduct clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or checklists for symptoms to determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosis. Psychological tests can be used to assess your cognitive abilities, as well as how you process information and think. They may also perform an examination of your brain using the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid, which is FDA-approved (NEBA), which evaluates the activity of specific areas of your brain that regulate the ability to focus and the ability to be impulsive.
They will also review your medical records to see whether there are any additional mental conditions or injuries, like thyroid issues or head trauma that can cause similar symptoms. They might refer you for thorough evaluation by a psychiatrist or psychologist.
To get a diagnosis of ADHD, you must have a minimum of six or more signs that began in childhood or before age 12. The symptoms must be present for at least six months, and cause significant problems with your daily functioning. Adults need to meet an upper threshold for diagnosis, but the criteria are the same: You must exhibit at minimum five symptoms that interfere with your work, social and home life.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to alleviate symptoms and improve functioning at home, school and work. There are many different treatment options, including treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Some people find success through lifestyle changes like using an organizer, a notebook, and scheduling tasks in advance. Others may benefit from specific learning disabilities treatments, such as metacognitive training that helps to improve their abilities to manage their time and problem solving as well as cognitive behavioral therapy to correct the distortions in thinking which can lead to low moods and low self-esteem.
Professionals with specialized training in health care can offer the best treatment program based on a patient's particular situation. They will look at the symptoms of the patient, and when they are an adult, also their school and childhood experiences. They will conduct clinical interviews, behavior ratings scales and symptoms checklists to determine if the person meets diagnostic criteria for ADHD. They can also look up a family history of mental health issues and physical illnesses. They will ask about the person's moods, behavior and changes over time.
The diagnosis of ADHD is made by analyzing six or more symptoms, that begin before the age of 12 and cause problems in at least two different settings (at school, at home, or in social situations). The symptoms have to be present for at least six months. The symptoms must also be more severe than expected for someone of this age.
There are no brain scans or blood tests to determine ADHD however medical checks are usually performed to ensure that there's nothing else wrong with the person. Doctors will review the person's symptoms and medical and psychiatric history, and may suggest an eye exam or hearing test. Certain people suffering from ADHD are genetically predisposed to the disorder. Anyone who has a sibling or parent with ADHD has an 85% chance of develop the disorder. It's also normal to have a comorbid mood or anxiety disorder in conjunction with ADHD. These disorders are more difficult to manage than ADHD alone.
The following is a list of preventatives.
Many things, including certain medical conditions and learning disabilities, can lead to symptoms similar to those associated with ADHD. So it's important to see your health care provider or a mental health professional to conduct an assessment prior to making the diagnosis. The doctor will inquire about your child's issues and how they affect their daily life. They can use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child suffers from ADHD. They can also conduct an examination of the body and test for hearing or vision problems. They can also request a brain scan called an EEG that analyzes beta and theta waves to detect changes in your child's brain function.
To be able to diagnose a child with ADHD they must display a number of symptoms that are more prominent than the norm for their age or developmental level. Inattention, hyperactivity, and/or an impulsive behavior can create serious issues at home, school or at work. The symptoms must also interfere with your child's social interactions. If your child is suffering from moderate or severe ADHD, they will require medication in order to lead a normal life.
Children with ADHD may have difficulty following directions and staying focused. This can result in lower grades and a loss of self-esteem. They may also have difficulty with social interactions, since they are unable to recognize social cues. They frequently interrupt others and come across as aggressive or abrasive. They are susceptible to anxiety, depression as well as substance abuse and issues with relationships.
Mild ADHD is defined by symptoms that are apparent but do not interfere in daily life, 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.
If you don't seek treatment, you can face serious consequences, including health issues, financial troubles and legal issues. There are a myriad of treatments available for ADHD. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions including nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement, and medications. NIMH offers more information on these options and how you can talk with your family about them.