Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
The first step in addressing symptoms that interfere in daily life is to get an ADHD diagnosis. For some, the diagnosis might appear as a label however for others, it's an elation to finally have a reason to explain why they're not able to keep up with their work or home-related obligations.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
The symptoms of ADHD vary for each individual, some general ones include problems staying focused and organized, trouble with time management, impulsivity, and issues with impulse control. Symptoms of ADHD can also impact relationships, cause social issues, and impact the quality life for those who live with them.
When it comes to determining whether one has ADHD, the doctor may begin with a clinical interview and inquire about the patient's life history. Typically, the doctor will ask about the family's background and medical history as well as how the person has been affected by their symptoms over time.
A physical exam will also be done to rule out any other health issues that could be causing symptoms, like thyroid disorders, sleep disorders, hormone fluctuations, or the use of drugs. The healthcare provider may then ask the patient to describe their behavior and complete a series of questionnaires or scales. The healthcare provider might also inquire about others who are in the patient's life to share their experiences with him or her like a spouse or sibling or teacher, coach, or nanny.
Untreated ADHD can cause people to feel like they are failing because they struggle to meet their expectations either the expectations of others or their own. They may have low self-esteem and a sense of hopelessness that they'll never be capable of getting their lives in order and achieve their potential. In time these feelings can lead to depression and anxiety.
Diagnoses can offer relief and hope for people suffering from ADHD. It can help them understand why they have trouble with their work, family life and relationships. It can help them see that their problems are not their fault and are not caused by a character flaw or lack of effort.
Anxiety and depression are more prevalent among people with ADHD than in those without the condition. A diagnosis can help them take the necessary steps to deal with these issues. They can also learn strategies to help them succeed.
What is the diagnostics for ADHD?
To diagnose ADHD, medical professionals must examine the full history of the person's symptoms. They must look at how long they have been suffering and the issues the symptoms can cause in different settings, such as at school or at work. They can also administer a number of tests, including symptom checklists and attention-span tests. They can also conduct interviews with relatives to get a more complete picture of the individual's symptoms and behavior.
A doctor must also assess a patient's symptoms to determine if they have any co-existing medical conditions such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can negatively impact ADHD symptoms, making them more difficult to control. Health care professionals will also examine a person's overall health and functioning by assessing their academic performance, work performance and family relations.
When an individual seeks the help of a health professional to be assessed for ADHD it is important to inquire with the health professional how long of experience they have in treating adults with ADHD. It is important to choose an therapist who is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They should be able to share their education and training with the patient. If they refuse or seem unwilling to divulge this information, the patient should look for a different therapy.
An ADHD diagnosis can be a relief for those who have had to deal with the symptoms of the disorder. It can help them to understand why they have had difficulty at work or in their relationships, and it can give them the confidence that there are things they can do to improve their lives. A diagnosis can be useful in finding accommodations for school or at work. If an employee suffering from ADHD has difficulty staying on track, they can request their boss or professor to give them extra time to study or writing assignments.
A person who suffers from ADHD is treated with an array of medications, therapy and lifestyle modifications. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, antidepressants and non-stimulant medications. It is important to discuss with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of using here medication for people with ADHD.
How can I get an ADHD diagnosis?
You may want to get your child or yourself assessed in the event that you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. Adults may be able to recognize ADHD when their symptoms cause significant problems in their lives. Some people may discover that they suffer from ADHD when a family member or friend pointed it out. A diagnosis of ADHD can allow you receive accommodations at school and in the workplace. It can also reduce feelings of guilt, shame and embarrassment.
An ADHD assessment typically involves a thorough assessment by an expert who will listen attentively and make notes. The specialist will go over the symptoms of ADHD and determine how many of them are relevant to the person in question as well as look at their past experiences since childhood. The evaluation may also include a physical exam as well as tests of hearing, vision, and balance.
During the interview, you will need to be honest with the expert and share the ways in which ADHD symptoms impact your life. The specialist might ask you to bring in report cards or other records from your childhood so that he or she can track how your ADHD symptoms have changed over time. These records can often show typical ADHD behavior patterns. Experts are also interested in knowing how ADHD symptoms have affected your relationships. It is not unusual for evaluators to reach out to family members to ask them to fill out questionnaires about your ADHD symptoms.
There are a variety of professionals who are able to test for ADHD and diagnose it such as psychologists and psychiatrists. Neuropsychologists and physicians are also able to do so. Ask your family doctor or therapist for recommendations and test out several specialists before making a final decision. You can also verify the professional certification and academic qualifications of the specialists prior to making an appointment, or request references from former clients or patients.
It isn't always easy to identify ADHD in adults because the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Version V (DSM-V) is designed to detect symptoms in children. However, a thorough clinical interview will usually yield the correct answer, particularly for those who have experienced evident signs of ADHD in their childhood.
What can I do to get treatment for ADHD?
If you suspect that you or your child is suffering from ADHD or you've been informed by someone else to be diagnosed, obtaining a diagnosis is the first step to managing symptoms and ultimately gaining control. Many people are relieved to discover that it wasn't simply laziness or a lack of intellect hindering their progress and that it's a condition that can be treated and controlled.
It is recommended that you visit an expert in mental health or your primary care physician, for a psychiatric assessment to obtain an ADHD diagnosis. A typical assessment could take up to an hour and include a medical history review, a family history review as well as the filling out of ADHD questionnaires and rating scales, by you and your family members, and also looking into any medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
The person who evaluates the child should be trained to diagnose ADHD and should they not be certified to do this they must have an appointment with a doctor or therapist who is. It is crucial to select the right specialist--get recommendations from other therapists, doctors and trusted friends and do your own research. Find professional certifications and academic degrees, as well as ask about their expertise and rate of success in diagnosing ADHD.
To meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD in children, the symptoms have to be present at least twice a day (at school, at home, or in social situations), and they must also interfere with their ability to function. Their symptoms must be evidently different from those of other children of the same age and development. The child's symptoms must be causing the family a lot of distress, such as issues in school or at work and/or frequent disagreements with their parents.
To identify ADHD in adults, the evaluator will ask your spouse, close family members and/or colleagues about your behavior at home and at work. They may also request that you complete the questionnaire and agree to let them contact teachers, coaches and daycare providers. In certain instances, an evaluator may suggest a physical exam to rule out medical conditions that may be responsible for your symptoms or that of your child like thyroid issues or seizures.