How to Diagnose and Treat adhd diagnosis in adult believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, however it can affect adults too. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve a person's life.
Interviewing the person and their family members can be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist may look over old school records to determine if symptoms started in the early years of childhood.
Symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that impacts school, work and family life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized at times. To be considered to have the disorder, a person must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly hinder everyday functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about their symptoms, and also about any medical issues and family history. They can also utilize rating scales that measure a child's or adult's symptoms. These questionnaires are usually built on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.
For adults, doctors might ask to speak with an intimate partner or others who are familiar with the patient. This isn't to question the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain more insight into a person's behavior that can't be gathered from the answers to a questionnaire. They may ask about childhood behavior and refer to the old school records to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an examination and tests on the lab to rule out any other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the person's list of medications. Certain medications for depression or high blood pressure, as well as other ailments may interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into account when suggesting treatment options. This is why it's important for adults to consult their primary care physicians if they think they might be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must be present in two or more settings (like school, home and work) and have a significant impact on functioning. They must also have started before the age of 12, and the impairment must not be caused by a different disorder, like depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional will use various tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptom lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour and a thorough medical history. They may also interview friends and family members to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They will also ask whether there are any other psychiatric conditions or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also examine the medical history of the patient and family history to ensure there is no root cause for their issues, such as thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In some instances an examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or request an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, including learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders and substance abuse. People with these problems tend to show different symptoms than those who do not have them. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, while girls display inattentional symptoms.
Many people with ADHD would like to participate in studies to try out new treatments. This is a great opportunity to continue research. However, participants should be aware that the main purpose of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and is not an assurance of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect they may have ADHD, it's important to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire if ADHD specialists are covered. You could also ask your family physician or other healthcare providers for recommendations. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a great option.
A doctor will speak with the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children -- about symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask others in the person's life for information including spouses and families. Personal insight often uncovers more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to examine any records the person might have, including old school reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the history of a person and, in order to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present from the age of a child (technically before age 12).
A physical exam is also carried out. It's also examined for any other medical conditions which could be causing symptoms, for instance seizures or thyroid problems. A neurological examination is often conducted by the expert to assess motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, which are designed to test abilities and intelligence, may be utilized as well. In addition the person could be asked to complete simple computer tasks that test attention and memory. This will help the professional determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive or impulsive. The expert will decide on the best treatment plan and then make an assessment. Typically, the treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy can be done by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD improve by taking medication. However, this is not the only treatment for the condition. adhd diagnosis in adult , teenagers and children are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies aid them in coping and live with their ADHD symptoms. They can include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can include teachers, family members, and professionals.
It is important to locate a health care provider or mental health professional with expertise in treating ADHD. You can ask other people with ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare provider you've met. You can also conduct an internet search. It is best to locate a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The doctor will inquire with you or your child about the symptoms and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will perform a physical examination and check for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of you or your child, as well as school documents and other reports.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be a bit more difficult due to the fact that the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily geared towards diagnosing children. Your doctor will talk to you or your child about the signs, and may request others who spend a lot of time with them to complete questionnaires and checklists. They will use these to help them decide whether you or your child has inattentive ADHD, hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, combined ADHD or unspecified ADHD. ADHD medications include stimulants like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomox as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD have co-occurring disorders, such as anxiety or depression. Treatment should therefore include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
In addition, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms by making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthier diet is also crucial for people with ADHD tend to eat more sugar and fat and less vegetables and fruits than other people. Also, making family and social relationships prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and allow people to feel more in control of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives adults and children an understanding awareness of their difficulties. A child diagnosed with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to their teachers or peers. Once a teacher understands that this is not an issue that is solely due to laziness they can provide adjustments.
A professional who conducts an ADHD evaluation will ask questions specific to the individual's age, ask questions of family members and teachers, review medical records, and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records can be useful for adults.
The specialist will also check for any hearing or vision issues with hearing or vision. They may also conduct a blood test to determine the presence of specific hormones and other health conditions that can cause ADHD-like symptoms.