Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms create major problems at work, school or at home. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) is used by health care providers to diagnose mental disorders.
A full evaluation includes ADHD symptom checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. Health professionals inquire about the family's history and look at 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 disrupt relationships and careers, leading to serious financial problems or a driver's license and even create emotional distress for the person. It's common for people to have difficulty concentrating or staying organised from time to time. However, if the problem gets more severe and affects the daily activities, a healthcare professional may be able to diagnose ADHD.
A health care professional must assess the person in two distinct situations, like at home and in school, as well as in social and workplace situations. They must observe the person in these environments for at least six months, and they must determine that the symptoms are hindering their ability to function. The symptoms must 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 have difficulty waiting for their turn and frequently interrupt or intrude on others.
Children with inattention ADHD have trouble following directions and staying focused or sitting still. They are usually daydreaming or easily distracted. They are more likely to be ignored and miss out on opportunities to learn, particularly in the elementary school setting which could prepare for failure later on 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 difficulty sitting or waiting for their turn, blurting out answers before the questions are complete, and have trouble controlling their emotions.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief but it's also not always easy to process. Some people may be ashamed, but they have to be honest so they can receive the assistance they need. A diagnosis might be the first time someone has realized their struggles are ascribed to. This knowledge can allow them to change the way they view themselves, resulting in positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms manifest at different times in both adults and children. For children, they usually begin in elementary school, but for adults, it's later. The symptoms may 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 may be misdiagnosed as autism or a mood disorder such as anxiety or depression.
If your child or teenager shows signs of ADHD The first step is to speak with your doctor. They will conduct an examination that includes audio and vision to make sure that there is no other issue. They will ask you and your child to complete an inventory of the symptoms. They will also ask what the effects of their symptoms are on their school and personal life. They'll also want hear about any past problems they've had.
For adults, a healthcare provider who is certified to diagnose ADHD will conduct clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or checklists of symptoms to determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosis. They might also do psychological tests to measure your cognitive abilities as well as learn how you process information and think. They could also conduct a brain scan with the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a device that measures the activity of certain parts of the brain that regulate your attention and impulsivity.
In addition, they will examine your medical history to determine if you've had any other mental health conditions or injuries, such as head trauma or thyroid conditions which can trigger similar symptoms. They might refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a thorough examination.
To be able to receive a diagnosis of ADHD, you must have a minimum of six or more symptoms that began in childhood or prior to age 12. The symptoms have to be present for at least six months and create significant problems for your daily functioning. Adults have the lower threshold for diagnosis, but the criteria are the same: You must be suffering from at least five symptoms that interfere with your work, social and family life.
Treatment
Treatment is designed to reduce symptoms and restore functioning at work, home and school. There are a variety of treatments available, including medication and behavior therapy. Some people also find success with lifestyle changes, like setting up a routine that is consistent by using a planner notebook and scheduling tasks ahead of time. Some people might benefit from therapies for learning disabilities such as metacognitive therapy, which aids them in improving their problem-solving skills and organizational abilities, or cognitive behavioral treatment that addresses the distortions in thinking, leading to low self-esteem and mood swings.
Health professionals who are specifically trained to diagnose ADHD can suggest the most effective treatment plan for a patient's situation. They will examine the person's symptoms, and when they are an adult, they will also consider their school and childhood experiences. They will employ clinical interviewing, scales for assessing behavior, and symptom checklists to determine if a person meets ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also inquire about the family history of mental illnesses 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.
The diagnosis of ADHD is by analyzing six or more signs, which start before 12 years of age and create issues in at minimum two settings (at school, at home, or in social situations). The symptoms must have been present for at least 6 months. The symptoms should also be more severe than what is normal for a person of the same age.
There are no blood tests or brain scans to diagnose ADHD, but an exam for medical reasons is usually carried out to ensure there's nothing else wrong with the individual. Doctors will examine the person's medical and psychiatric records and examine their symptoms. They may also recommend an hearing or eye test. Some people who suffer from ADHD are genetically predisposed to develop the condition. If adhd in adults diagnosis has a parent or sibling with ADHD they are at risk of having 91% of the chance of developing the disorder themselves. ADHD is often accompanied by a mood or anxiety disorder. These conditions can be more difficult to treat than ADHD by itself.
Prevention
Many things, including some medical conditions and certain kinds of learning disabilities can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. It is important to speak with a mental health professional or health care provider for an assessment prior to determining an assessment. The person you see will inquire about your child's issues and how they impact their daily life. They can use checklists or rating scales to determine if your child is ADHD. They could also conduct an examination of the body and test for hearing or vision issues. They may also order an EEG brain scan, which analyzes beta and theta waves to monitor changes in your child's brain function.
Children who are diagnosed with ADHD have symptoms that are more than the norm for their age and development level. The signs of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity have to cause serious problems at home, at school or work. The symptoms should also affect your child's ability to interact with other people. If your child suffers from severe or moderate ADHD, they will require medication to lead a normal life.
Children with ADHD might have trouble following instructions and staying on track. This can result in lower grades and a loss of self-esteem. They may also struggle with social relationships, as they are unable to read social cues. They frequently interrupt others and appear violent or intense. They are susceptible to depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and issues with relationships.
People who have mild ADHD have symptoms that are evident but do not interfere with their daily lives or make it difficult to maintain relationships or work. People who suffer from severe or moderate ADHD are more likely to experience symptoms and are more likely to suffer job-related problems, such as having difficulty retaining jobs, interacting with colleagues, or maintaining relationships.
If they do not seek treatment could face serious consequences. This includes financial issues, health issues, and legal issues. There are a number of treatments available for ADHD that include psychosocial and behavioral therapy including diet and nutrition, exercise medication for sleep, and other treatments. NIMH has more information on these options and how you can talk with your family members about them.