ADHD Diagnosis
Children suffering from ADHD are unable to sit still, pay attention or act impulsively. The symptoms have been present for at minimum six months and are more severe than expected for their age or developmental level.
Experts determine ADHD using questionnaires, interviews with parents and teachers and school performance records. They also consider the patient's past and any mental health problems.
Diagnosing ADHD
A diagnosis can be a source of relief for those with ADHD. It can also bring a sense understanding. However, getting an official diagnosis may be stressful, particularly if a person doesn't plan to take medication as part of their treatment.
A specialist in diagnosing ADHD will review your or your child's history and symptoms. They'll ask questions about when symptoms first started and whether they've worsened over time. They'll also look at your child's or your own development, mental health and lifestyle. They might also conduct interviews with coaches, teachers and other adults who know your your child well.
The goal is to determine whether you or your child have symptoms that are in line with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - Fifth Edition DSM-V criteria1. That includes six or more ADHD symptoms that significantly interfere with daily functioning and can't be explained by other causes like issues at school or home, poor nutrition or medical conditions like anxiety or sleep issues.
In adhd uk diagnosis to the DSM-V criteria Your doctor will also consider your child's previous behavior and performance. They'll take note of the time it takes you or your child to finish tasks, their tendency to make impulsive mistakes, and if they're having trouble sitting still. They'll also determine if you or your child have any past history of anxiety, depression or mood disorders which can often coexist with ADHD.
A background of physical trauma or birth complications or an abnormal thyroid gland can also influence the outcome of a ADHD assessment. They may also be looking for other conditions, such as bipolar disorder or learning disabilities.
In an in-person ADHD assessment, your or your child may take one of the numerous ADHD tests available for use, including the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system. This tool measures brain waves and is approved for children between the ages of 6-17. ADHD testing is just one aspect of a complete assessment.
The symptoms of ADHD
People with ADHD use brain networks differently to send and relay information. They are unable to focus their attention or managing their behavior. This can cause problems at home and in school. Their behavior also is characterized by bursts of activity and making decisions on the fly without considering the consequences or the requirements of others. They are often guilty of making mistakes at work or in school. The disorder is diagnosed when symptoms are present for more than six months and affect daily functioning at school as well as in the community.
Doctors employ ADHD symptoms checklists and standard behavior ratings scales to determine whether someone meets the criteria for a diagnose. They might also ask the patient to describe their issues in their own words. They may also interview those who know the patient, like spouse or a sibling for adults or a teacher or coach when they are children. These interviews can provide valuable insights that cannot be gleaned by taking tests or completing questionnaires.
The symptoms of ADHD are present at any age, but the condition usually develops in the early years of childhood. Doctors must consider a person's problems in their early years in determining a diagnosis. They may ask to see old school records, or talk to the patient's parents or teachers regarding their experiences as an infant.
Many people who suffer from ADHD are not diagnosed until later in life because they were able to compensate for their problems in childhood by using tricks or learning strategies. When they are struggling to balance work, family, and other obligations, their symptoms can be more obvious. Women and girls are more adept in hiding their symptoms than boys and men and this can make a diagnosis more difficult.
Researchers believe that while the root cause of ADHD has not been determined, genetics and certain environment elements could be a factor in the development of ADHD. Exposure to drugs prior to birth, alcohol, or nicotine could increase the risk for developing the disorder. Early loss of attachment and trauma may also cause the disorder. The symptoms are triggered by chemical changes that affect the nervous system during crucial stages of development.
Medication for ADHD
In a typical evaluation an expert in health care will interview you or your child. They will ask you questions about the symptoms that you or your child have been experiencing, their frequency, and the problems they cause. They might also talk to others, including family members, teachers and coaches, to get a better understanding of your child's or your child's behavior.
The healthcare provider might use a list of ADHD symptoms to determine if you or your child meets the diagnostic criteria for this disorder. They will also take into consideration other disorders such as mood and anxiety disorders that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
Adults with ADHD who are diagnosed with the condition typically receive prescription medications to treat their symptoms. Products that stimulate the brain, such as those containing amphetamine and methylphenidate are believed to improve the balance and levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. In some adults, these medications may also improve their ability to think clearly and make sound decisions. Other options include non-stimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. These medications are less potent than stimulants, but they are effective for children who are in a position to not take stimulants due to medical conditions or severe adverse effects.
Treatment of children with ADHD is mostly dependent on parents taking an active role in therapy sessions. Parents learn to communicate better with their child and how to support their child at school and at home. Therapists can help parents learn parenting skills and techniques for managing stress to aid them in coping with the demands placed on children with ADHD.
Certain people suffering from ADHD have psychiatric issues that are co-occurring like depression and anxiety, which need to be treated in conjunction with the ADHD symptoms. A psychologist or psychiatrist who is specially trained to treat ADHD typically works closely with a mental health professional who can treat coexisting issues. Therapists can help people with ADHD learn coping and organizational abilities that improve their relationships and overall quality. They can also recommend classes that teach problem-solving and also to improve communication.
Treatment for ADHD
Many different treatments are available for adults and children with ADHD. Your doctor will help you find the most effective treatment plan for your child or adult. Treatment options include medication as well as behavioral therapy and family counseling. Psychoeducation and support group are also beneficial.
Your child's symptoms will be assessed by your health care professional to determine if they are suffering from ADHD. They may ask about your child's behavior in school, at home, and in social situations. They will also assess your child's mood and medical history, and search for other conditions that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD like seizure disorders and sleep apnea.
The most common form of ADHD is one that is marked by inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. This type is more common in young children. It is easy to recognize because children who suffer from ADHD fidget a lot, talk a great deal and have trouble sitting still. They have trouble paying attention in the classroom and other settings such as family or community events.
Other forms of ADHD are difficult to diagnose because they often appear differently in different situations. For instance, some adults show inattention, but don't exhibit the hyperactivity or impulsivity which is usually seen in younger people. They may have difficulty managing their work and staying on track or managing relationships.
Some people suffering from ADHD also develop depression or anxiety. These people require a different treatment plan that includes psychotherapy (also known as talk therapy). It's important for your mental health professional to evaluate these other symptoms as well as the ADHD symptoms.
Stimulants, also known as stimulants, are the most frequently prescribed drugs prescribed for ADHD. They can be taken by mouth or through a nose spray (liquid) or patch. They are generally safe for the majority people, however there is a chance of side effects, including a slower heart rate, decreased appetite and a worsening of mood in some people.
Some people with ADHD can be assisted by taking a range of other supplements or medications like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins C and E. These can help improve concentration and decrease the irritability.