How to Diagnose ADHD
To determine ADHD the professionals use clinical interviews, behavior rating scales and symptom checklists completed by the patient and others in his or her life, psychiatric history and medical records. Psychotherapy may also be utilized to manage symptoms.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must have at least six signs that began before age 12 and affect your daily activities in two different settings (home and school or work and social settings). Getting the right diagnosis is crucial for deciding on the most effective treatment plan.
History of Symptoms
If a patient decides to see an ADHD specialist the doctor will look over their symptoms and determine if they meet the diagnostic criteria for the disorder. These are listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association. To be considered a diagnosis the symptoms must have been present for at minimum six months. The patient must have at least five ADHD symptoms that are persistent and they are affecting their functioning in at minimum two different environments like school or at work. Additionally, the person's ADHD symptoms cannot be explained by a different mental health issue.
The doctor will first talk to the patient to learn about their symptoms and their impact on their lives. They'll also ask a person about their family history as well as their medical and mental health histories.
People who suffer from ADHD frequently have difficulty managing or completing tasks. They might not remember appointments for work or personal. They have a difficult time staying focused to lectures or conversations, and are easily distracted by phone calls or TV shows. diagnosing adhd might be restless or fidgety or talk too much and interrupt others, or have difficulty waiting their turn in games or activities. Adults with ADHD are more likely to struggle with making decisions and executing on them, in addition to having trouble keeping their hands off things they shouldn't.
If ADHD symptoms are not treated, they may lead to serious consequences such as traffic infractions and accidents. They can also cause problems in relationships and can be difficult to live around. Being diagnosed can help a person take charge of their life and manage their symptoms through medications, lifestyle modifications or therapy.
However the stigma associated with ADHD can deter people from seeking treatment or an evaluation. People with ADHD are still often accused of being lazy or uninterested. They also run the risk of being disregarded in the workplace due to a deficiency of child and adolescent psychiatrists and face obstacles in accessing psychiatric treatment which includes stigma and fears about the risks and side effects.
Physical Exam
It is crucial to talk with a mental health professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD. The person you choose could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or a family doctor. A thorough examination should consist of a clinical assessment, diagnostic tests, and questionnaires. The examiner will also ask questions about the patient's medical history as well as his or their development and behavior dating back to the time of childhood. It is usually beneficial for the examiner to discuss with those who are familiar with the patient (spouse, sibling or parents for an adult; teachers, religious leaders coaches, scout leaders and coaches for children -- to collect information on their observations of the child's behavior in different settings.
A physical examination is essential to rule out health conditions that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD, such as hearing and vision issues, thyroid disease or sleep disorders. A X-ray and other tests in the laboratory may be needed as well.
The most valuable information is derived from the patient's words about their symptoms and how those symptoms have affected them. It is crucial for the doctor to listen attentively to what the patient has to say. In rushing through an ADHD evaluation could result in a wrong diagnosis and missing important information.
diagnosis of adhd agree that ADHD is only diagnosed in adults if the signs were present in the early years of childhood. A person doesn't usually "outgrow" ADHD, but an increase in responsibility or a change in life could trigger it in adults. One may have trouble fulfilling the requirements of a new job that requires frequent meetings.
It's a good idea to take children to visit an expert when issues first develop. This increases the likelihood that the problem is identified and addressed quickly, and also minimizes the risk of a misdiagnosis that could have long-lasting consequences. Parents can ask their school's director or counselor to recommend them to a health professional who is able to assess ADHD. Adults can consult their family and friends for recommendations, or contact an organization in the area to obtain names of professionals who are qualified. One may also contact his or her primary care provider or a psychiatric institution for a list of specialists.
Psychological tests
The psychological testing is a vital component of diagnosing ADHD. It helps confirm the diagnosis and provide a more complete evaluation of symptoms and their impact on the life of a person. Testing can also detect other mental health conditions that could co-occur with ADHD, like depression or anxiety. It can also provide information for interventions and accommodations.
For children, there are numerous psychological tests that can be used to test for ADHD. These include rating scales and direct observation of behavior, as well as neuropsychological assessments. Interviews with parents and teachers are also conducted to gain an overall picture of the child.
Adult ADHD is harder to diagnose. The DSM-V is designed to identify children. For adults, the best method to make an accurate diagnosis is to schedule an interview with a specialist who is experienced with ADHD and takes the time to look over the patient's medical background. Some healthcare professionals utilize computers to assess the level of impulsivity and attention. Brain scans are sometimes also used.
The amount of time needed to complete a thorough psychological evaluation will differ and one can anticipate to spend the day in the hospital or clinic to undergo a complete neuropsychological assessment for ADHD. It is a minimal amount of time spent in exchange for clear, unbiased answers and a path forward that can improve the quality of life. It is not uncommon for patients to feel emotionally moved when they receive their results, particularly when they have suffered from undiagnosed ADHD for a long time or for a long time.
Online ADHD self-assessments claim to give you an exact, validated scientific diagnosis of your symptoms. Most mental health experts do not recommend these tools because they do not consider the complexity of psychiatric conditions and how their symptoms affect the person's daily activities. The only way to obtain a diagnosis is through an assessment by a licensed healthcare professional who adheres to DSM guidelines for ADHD. You can find a certified healthcare provider through your family doctor or ask colleagues and friends who have expertise in ADHD for recommendations.
Family History
Currently, under DSM-5 guidelines, a child must demonstrate symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity in two or more settings, including home and school, before a diagnosis can be made. Adults can be diagnosed with ADHD if they meet the criteria in only one setting.
The health professional who is conducting the evaluation will interview the patient. She will ask about symptoms and how they affect the daily routine. She will inquire about the person's medical history and family background. She may use a checklist, or a standardized rating system, to determine if the signs are ADHD. She may also seek out information from various sources, including teachers, coaches, religious and scout leaders and family members who spend long periods of time with the person being evaluated.
A thorough psychiatric assessment will include the description of symptoms by the patient and his family members, the filling out of rating scales or questionnaires by the patient and his family members, and a thorough review of the person's education, surroundings, and upbringing. A medical professional or psychiatrist can also perform tests to determine if the patient's symptom are due to depression or anxiety.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be tricky since the majority of the DSM-5 symptoms guide is targeted towards children. A health care professional with ADHD expertise will usually conduct a clinical interview to determine the diagnosis. She will ask the patient and those who are familiar with him like a spouse or close friend -- about the existence of ADHD-related issues. She will also inquire about the presence of other disorders that could interfere with concentration such as depression or drug abuse.
To locate a healthcare professional who is qualified to conduct an ADHD evaluation, ask your primary doctor for a referral. You can also contact an organization that offers local support for people suffering from ADHD or a mental health organization for recommendations. Many insurance plans also list professionals by specialty, and you can check with your insurance provider to determine if there are any ADHD specialists in your area.