Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Adults are usually not diagnosed until they experience major problems at home, at work or at 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 evaluation includes ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health professionals inquire about the family's history and examine the school records from the past.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can have a negative impact on the way a person lives their life regardless of whether at home, school or work. They can be disruptive to relationships and careers, leading to serious financial problems or a driver's license and can even cause emotional distress for the person. It's common for people to experience difficulties concentrating or staying organised at times. However, if the problem is persistent and affects daily functioning, a healthcare specialist may be able to identify ADHD.
adhd in adults diagnosis will need to evaluate the individual in two different situations, like at home and in school, as well as in workplace and social situations. The health care professional has to observe the person for a minimum of six months and determine whether the symptoms are affecting their ability to perform. The symptoms also must be present prior to 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. They have difficulty waiting for their turn and often interrupt or intrude on others.
Children who suffer from the inattentive form of ADHD are incapable of sitting or waiting in silence and are unable to follow instructions or staying focused. They tend to be distracted, forgetful or easily distracted by their surroundings. They are more likely to be ignored and miss out on learning opportunities, particularly in elementary schools 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 have a difficult time waiting for their turn or settling down. They also have trouble controlling their emotions.
It's a relief to receive the diagnosis of ADHD however, it's not always simple. It's normal to be embarrassed. However, honesty is the best approach. For some, it will be the first time they've realized their problems have a. This understanding will help them alter their perspective of themselves, which can lead to positive changes.
Diagnosis
When it comes to ADHD symptoms can manifest at different times for kids and adults. In children, the symptoms usually begin in the first grade. For adults, symptoms begin slightly later. The symptoms could 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 instances the condition can be misdiagnosed as autistic or an anxiety disorder or depression.
Talk to your doctor If your child or teenager exhibits symptoms of ADHD. They will conduct a physical exam that includes hearing and vision to make sure there's nothing else going on. They will ask you and your child to complete an inventory of their symptoms. They'll be interested in knowing how the symptoms have affected their family and school lives. They will also want to be informed about any past issues they've faced.
For adults, a medical professional who is qualified to diagnose ADHD will use clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or checklists for symptoms to determine if they meet the requirements for diagnosis. Psychological tests may be used to assess your cognitive abilities, as well as 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 control your attention and impulsivity.
They will also examine your medical records to determine whether there are any additional mental health issues or injuries, such as head trauma or thyroid problems that can cause similar symptoms. They may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a thorough evaluation.
To be able to receive a diagnosis of ADHD you must exhibit a minimum of six or more signs that began in your childhood or before age 12. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months and cause significant difficulties in your daily life. Adults have an upper threshold for diagnosis, but the criteria are the same: You must be suffering from at least five symptoms that interfere with your social, work and home life.
Treatment
The aim of treatment is to improve symptoms and restore functioning at the workplace, at home and in school. There are a variety of treatment options, including treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Many people have success through lifestyle changes, for example, setting up a routine that is consistent by using a planner or notebook and scheduling tasks in advance. Others might benefit from specific learning disabilities treatments, like metacognitive therapy that helps them improve their organizational skills and problem-solving abilities as well as cognitive behavioral therapy to address cognitive distortions that can cause negative moods and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who have been specially trained to recognize ADHD can suggest the most effective treatment plan for a person's situation. They will examine the person's symptoms, and when they are an adult, they will also consider their childhood and school experiences. They will use clinical interviewing, scales for assessing behavior and symptom checklists to determine if a person meets ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also conduct the family history of mental health issues and physical ailments. 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 12 years of age and cause problems in at least two settings (at home, school or social situations). The symptoms must be present for a minimum of 6 months. In addition the symptoms should be significantly more troublesome than expected for someone who is that old.
A medical checkup is typically carried out to confirm that the patient does not have any other health issues. Doctors will examine the person's medical and psychiatric history and examine their symptoms. They may also suggest an hearing or eye test. Some people who suffer from ADHD are genetically predisposed to the condition. Anyone who has a sibling or parent with ADHD has a 91% chance to develop the disorder. It's also common to have a comorbid mood or anxiety disorder in conjunction with ADHD. These disorders can be more difficult to treat than ADHD by itself.
Prevention
Many things, including certain medical conditions, as well as learning disabilities, can lead to symptoms similar to those of ADHD. It is therefore important to consult an expert in health care or a mental health professional for an evaluation before making a diagnosis. The doctor will inquire about the symptoms of your child and how they impact their daily lives. They can also use ratings scales or a checklist to determine if your child suffers from ADHD. They could also conduct an examination and test for hearing or visual issues. They may also request a brain scan, also known as an EEG, which measures theta and beta waves to check for changes in the brain function of your child.
Children diagnosed with ADHD should exhibit symptoms that are more than normal for their age and development level. The symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity must cause significant problems at home, school or at work. The symptoms also need to interfere with your child's social interactions. If your child exhibits moderate or severe ADHD symptoms they will require treatment with medication in order to live the normal life.
Children suffering from ADHD may find it difficult to follow directions and remain focused and can result in low self-esteem and grades. They may also struggle with social interactions, since they aren't able to discern social signals. They frequently interrupt others and come across as aggressive or intense. They are at risk of anxiety, depression as well as substance abuse and issues with relationships.
People with 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 job-related problems, such as difficulties in keeping a job, getting along with coworkers or maintaining relationships.
If you don't seek treatment, you can face serious consequences, including health issues, financial problems and legal issues. There are a myriad of treatments available for ADHD. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions, nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement, and medication. NIMH has more information on these options and how to talk with your family members about them.