Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Adults are often not diagnosed until they are experiencing major problems at home, work or at school. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) is used by health care professionals to diagnose mental disorders.
A thorough assessment includes ADHD symptom lists and standardized scales for assessing behavior. Health care professionals also inquire about family history and look over old school records.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can impact the daily routine of a person regardless of whether they are at school, home or work. They can cause problems in relationships and careers, financial problems and even a driver's license. They can also cause emotional distress. It is common for people to have difficulty concentrating or staying organised occasionally. However, if the problem gets more severe and affects the daily activities, a healthcare specialist 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 workplace and social settings. They need to observe the person in these environments for a minimum of six months and must see that the symptoms are significantly impairing their ability to perform. The symptoms should also have started before 12 years. 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 are often not able to wait for their turn, and they interrupt or intrude upon other children.
Children with inattention ADHD have trouble following directions and staying on task, or sat down. They tend to be distracted or snoozing. They are more likely to be ignored and miss out on learning opportunities, particularly in primary schools, which can set up 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 wait their turn or settling down. They also have trouble controlling their emotions.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief however, it's difficult to comprehend. It's normal to be embarrassed. But, honesty is the best way to go. A diagnosis could be the first time that someone has realized their struggles have a name. This knowledge can help them change their perception of themselves, resulting in positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms manifest at different times in both adults and children. For children, symptoms typically begin in the middle of elementary school. For adults, symptoms begin slightly later. The symptoms can 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 could be misdiagnosed as autism, or a mood disorder such as anxiety or depression.
Talk to your doctor when your child or teen shows indications of ADHD. They will conduct an examination that includes audio and vision tests to ensure that there is no other issue. They will ask you and your child to fill out a checklist of their symptoms. They will also ask how the symptoms have affected their school and personal life. They'll also want to be informed about any past issues they've experienced.
Adults can be diagnosed with ADHD by a medical professional qualified to do so. They may use clinical interviews, behavior rating scales, or symptoms checklists. Psychological tests can be used to assess your cognitive abilities, and how you process information and think. They may also perform a brain scan using the Neuropsychiatric EEG Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is FDA-approved. (NEBA) which analyzes the activity of specific areas of your brain that control the ability to focus and the ability to be impulsive.
They will also look at your medical records to see if there are any other mental disorders or injuries, like head trauma or thyroid problems that can cause similar symptoms. They might refer you for a thorough evaluation to a psychologist or psychiatrist.
You must be suffering from at least six symptoms that began in childhood or before the age of 12. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum 6 months and be causing serious problems in your daily functioning. Adults must meet an upper threshold for diagnosis, however the criteria are the same: You must exhibit at least five symptoms that cause problems with your work, social and family life.
Treatment
Treatment is designed to reduce symptoms and restore functioning at home, work and at school. There are a variety of treatment options, such as the use of medication and behavioral therapy. Some people experience success through lifestyle changes like using planners, notebooks, and scheduling tasks in advance. Others might benefit from specific learning disabilities treatments, such as metacognitive training that helps them develop their ability to organize their lives and solve problems or cognitive behavioral therapy to correct thinking distortions that can lead to negative moods and low self-esteem.
Health professionals who are specially trained to recognize ADHD can suggest the most effective treatment for a person's situation. They will assess the patient's current symptoms, and when they are an adult, their previous behavior and school experiences. They will employ clinical interviewing, behavior rating scales, and symptom checklists in order to determine if a person is in compliance with ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also ask about family history of mental illness and physical conditions. They'll ask the person, their parents and teachers about their moods and behavior and about how they've changed over time.
A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the presence of more than six symptoms that start before age 12 and cause difficulties in two or more environments (home school, social situations). The symptoms have to be present for at least six months. The symptoms must be more severe than what is normal for a person of the same age.
A medical exam is usually carried out to confirm that the person doesn't have any other health issues. Doctors will look over the patient's symptoms and medical and mental history, and may suggest an eye exam or hearing test. Some people with ADHD are genetically predisposed to the disorder. A person who has a sibling or parent with ADHD has a 91% chance to develop the disorder. ADHD is often associated with a mood or anxiety disorder. These conditions can be more difficult to treat than ADHD alone.
Prevention
Many things, such as certain medical conditions, as well as learning disabilities, can lead to symptoms similar to those associated with ADHD. It is essential to talk to a mental health professional or a health professional for an evaluation prior to making the diagnosis. The doctor will inquire about your child's issues and how they affect their daily lives. They can also use ratings scales or a checklist to help determine if your child is suffering from ADHD. They could also perform an examination and test for vision or hearing problems. They can also request an examination of the brain, known as an EEG, which analyzes beta and theta waves to check for changes in the brain function of your child.
Children diagnosed with ADHD must show symptoms that are more than normal for their age and developmental level. Inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity must cause serious issues at home, school or at work. The symptoms also need to interfere with your child's social interactions. If your child is suffering from moderate or severe ADHD they will require medication to lead a normal life.
Children with ADHD are often unable to follow directions and remain on task, which can lead to low self-esteem and grades. getting diagnosed with adhd may also have difficulties with social interactions as they struggle to discern social cues and often interrupt others or come off as aggressive or abrasive. They are at risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and issues with relationships.
Mild ADHD is manifests itself in symptoms that are visible but do not interfere in everyday life. It can making it difficult to maintain relationships or work. The people with moderate or severe ADHD are more likely to experience symptoms, and they are more likely than other people to have problems at work, like difficulties keeping a job or interacting with coworkers.
People who don't receive treatment could face grave consequences, including health issues, financial troubles and legal issues. There are many treatments for ADHD. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions including nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement and medications. NIMH provides more information about these options and how you can discuss these options with your family members.