Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
The first step towards reducing symptoms that hinder everyday life is to obtain an ADHD diagnosis. Some people might view the diagnosis as a label. Others will find it a relief that they finally have an explanation for the reasons they're unable to manage the demands of family, work, and home obligations.
What are the signs of ADHD?
ADHD symptoms differ from person to person However, the most common symptoms include problems staying focused and organized issues with time management, impulsivity, and impulse control issues. These symptoms can affect relationships, create social issues, and affect the quality of life of people who live with them.
To determine if someone suffers from ADHD, doctors will conduct a clinical interview. During the interview the doctor will inquire about the patient's past. Typically, the doctor will ask about the family's history and medical history as well as about how the person has been affected by their symptoms over the course of time.
A physical exam may be conducted to rule out any other health issues that could be contributing to symptoms, including thyroid issues, sleep disorders hormone fluctuations, alcohol abuse. The healthcare provider may then ask the patient to describe their behavior and fill out a series questionnaires or scales. The healthcare provider might also ask those who are close to the patient about their experiences, for example, spouse or sibling or a coach or teacher or even the babysitter.
Untreated ADHD can cause people to feel like they're failing as they struggle to meet their expectations that are their own or others'. They may experience low self-esteem and a feeling of despair that they'll never be able to get their lives in order and reach their potential. As time passes, these feelings can lead to depression and anxiety.
Being diagnosed can bring peace and hope for those suffering from ADHD. It can help them understand why they have difficulties with their work, home life and relationships. It will help them understand that their issues aren't their fault, and are not caused by an insufficiency of character or lack of effort.
Anxiety and depression are more common in people with ADHD than those who do not suffer from the condition. Diagnoses can assist people in taking actions to deal with these issues. They can also learn strategies that will help them succeed.
What is the diagnosis of ADHD?
A health care professional will require a detailed history of the symptoms in order to diagnose ADHD. They must determine how long the symptoms have been present and what problems they cause in different settings such as work or school. They can also administer a variety of tests, such as symptom checklists or attention-span test. They may also ask family members about the individual's symptoms or behavior.
In addition to assessing the person's symptoms, a health care provider must also determine if they have a coexisting disorder such as anxiety or depression. These conditions can negatively impact ADHD symptoms, making them more difficult to control. Health care professionals also consider the general health of a person and their well-being. They will consider their academic performance and work performance as well as family relationships.
When a patient seeks the help of a health professional to be assessed for ADHD, they should inquire with the health professional how long of experience they have in treating adults suffering from ADHD. It is crucial to select an therapist who is trained in the diagnosis and treatment adult ADHD. They should be willing to share their knowledge and training with the patient. If they refuse or appear reluctant to share this information the patient should find another therapist.
A ADHD diagnosis can be a source of relief for people who have struggled with 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 ways to improve their life. A diagnosis can be helpful in finding accommodations for work or school. If an employee with ADHD struggles to stay focused, they can request their boss or professor to allow them extra time to study or writing assignments.
A person who suffers from ADHD is treated with a combination of therapy, medications and lifestyle modifications. ADHD is treated with stimulants, antidepressants and non-stimulant medications. Patients with ADHD frequently experience negative side effects when taking medications which is why it is essential to discuss the advantages and potential risks with your healthcare provider.
How do I obtain an ADHD diagnosis?
You may want to get your child or yourself assessed in the event that you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. Some people discover they suffer from ADHD as adults, and the symptoms cause significant problems in their lives. Some may discover that they have ADHD because a loved one has pointed it out to them. A diagnosis of ADHD can allow you to get accommodations at school and at work. It can also help reduce feelings of shame, guilt and embarrassment.
An ADHD assessment typically involves a thorough interview by an expert who takes the time to listen attentively and make notes. The expert will go over the symptoms of ADHD and determine if any of them are applicable to the person in question, as well as consider their past experiences since childhood. The assessment may also include physical examinations and tests of hearing and vision as well as balance.
During the interview, you'll be required to open up to the professional and explain the way in which ADHD symptoms affect your life. The doctor may ask you to bring reports and other documents from your childhood so that he or she can see how your ADHD symptoms have played out over the years. In many cases, these records be able to reveal patterns of behavior that are typical of ADHD. Experts are also interested in knowing what ADHD symptoms have affected your relationships. It is not unusual for evaluators to contact family members and ask them to complete questionnaires about your ADHD symptoms.
There are a myriad of professionals who can conduct ADHD testing and give a diagnosis including psychiatrists, psychologists, psychotherapists, neuropsychologists, and doctors. Ask your family doctor or therapist for recommendations and test out several specialists before making a final decision. Before booking an appointment, verify the academic and professional qualifications of specialists or consult former patients or clients for references.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adulthood is more difficult than identifying a child, because most of the criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) are designed to identify children's symptoms. A thorough clinical interview will usually reveal the answer, especially in adults who have ADHD symptoms as children.
What can I do to get treatment for ADHD?
If you suspect you or your child suffers from ADHD or has been told by someone else, getting a diagnosis is the first step to managing symptoms and ultimately gaining control. Many people are happy to discover that the issue isn't a lack of motivation or a lack of intelligence, but a condition they can manage and treat.
You should visit a mental health professional, or your primary care physician for a psychiatric examination to obtain an ADHD diagnosis. A typical test can be a half-hour or more and include a clinical interview, a review of medical information and family history, the completion of ADHD assessment scales and questionnaires completed by you and your family members, and an examination to rule out any other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, including seizures, thyroid issues, depression, mood issues and more.
The evaluator must be certified to recognize ADHD. If they're not, they will require a referral from another physician or therapist who is. Choose the right doctor. Ask for recommendations from other doctors, psychologists and trusted friends. Do your research. Ask about their professional credentials and academic degrees. Also, inquire about their experience diagnosing ADHD.
For children, in order to meet the requirements for diagnosing ADHD, their symptoms must be present in more than one setting (home or school or social situations) and substantially interfere with their functioning and their quality of life. The symptoms they exhibit must be distinct from other children of the same age and development level. And the child's symptoms must cause significant pain for the family members, such as difficulties in keeping up with the workplace or at school and/or frequent disagreements with parents.
For adults, to be diagnosed with ADHD, the evaluator should solicit feedback from your spouse, other close acquaintances, and/or coworkers about how you function at home and at work. They might also ask that you complete the questionnaire and agree to let them contact teachers, coaches and daycare providers. In some instances the evaluator may recommend a physical exam to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could trigger your child's or your own symptoms, such as a thyroid problem or seizures.