3 Ways That The ADHD Diagnoses Can Influence Your Life
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any history of ADHD. He will also examine your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. An event that is significant, such as a pregnancy or relationship issues can trigger awareness of the issue. The first step to manage ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to obtain a diagnosis.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have a lot of trouble sitting still, waiting to be called, and paying attention at school or other environments. These issues can seriously affect their functioning at work, home, or school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity have to be present for at minimum six months and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental stage. Additionally, they must be causing significant pain and difficulties at school, at home or at work, as well as in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a trained health care provider. This may include a physical exam and a look at other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like depression or thyroid disease. The health professional may also review the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. In addition, he will interview the person about the symptoms they are experiencing. Children are asked questions according to their age, and parents are also able to be interviewed.
The provider will use American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults as well as children. These guidelines are outlined in DSM-5 which is the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will examine the patient's current symptoms as well as previous behavior, focusing on how they impact their social, family and professional lives. If it is possible the therapist will review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When conducting an assessment on adults, the doctor will take into account whether they suffer from a co-occurring mental health condition and ask whether the patient has any family history of ADHD. Family members of those with the disorder are more prone to develop it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects that a patient has ADHD If he or she suspects that someone has ADHD, they will give the person an exhaustive clinical evaluation, including reviewing their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a diary of their symptoms for some weeks. They can also ask the person about any other medical conditions they have, and use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient has any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can perform screening and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all certified to diagnose ADHD. Family doctors may diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They may send adults to a full evaluation.
A thorough medical exam, including an assessment of hearing and sight, is the first step towards diagnosing ADHD. adhd diagnosis in adult might also suggest the use of a brain scanner, also known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the relative intensity of theta and Beta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a non-invasive, safe method for screening individuals for ADHD.
The examiner will review the patient's medical history, including his medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood. He will also discuss the person's current symptoms and ways of coping. The doctor checks to see if the person meets the diagnostic criteria for either inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or combined ADHD presentations as defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
The doctor will ask teachers and others who spend a lot of time with children to complete questionnaires or checklists. The doctor may ask parents to fill in such forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, colleagues and other close acquaintances. They might also wish to interview someone who has been with the person since childhood.
During the diagnostic process, the mental health professional looks for signs that indicate whether the person is experiencing predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. He or she will also determine for how long the symptoms have been present and if they are causing impairment at home, school, work or in other aspects of life.
The mental health professional should also screen for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. The professional should also check for physical causes of the person's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep issues. A thorough examination will also examine the person's psychological, social and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD require learning to manage their symptoms. Family members can assist them by encouraging the school staff to observe the child closely, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also teach methods of relaxation and calming such as yoga or meditation. Many children suffering from ADHD benefit from regular exercise and a healthy diet which will enhance their ability to focus and concentrate. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, as they can make their symptoms worse. They should also sleep enough.
The symptoms of ADHD are present throughout adolescence and into adulthood. For adults, they can manifest as trouble at work or in relationships. A doctor will perform an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and how severe it is. This evaluation includes an assessment of the mental state, a physical examination, and interviews with the individual and his or her parents and spouses or partners and other people who are familiar with him or her. The doctor may ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they affect them. They might also employ rating scales or other tests to verify that the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. They can also inquire about any medical conditions that may be a cause of ADHD symptoms, like seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If a person is identified as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to treat symptoms. Stimulants are the most common drugs used to treat ADHD in adults and children. These medications can trigger adverse effects. One should only take these medications under the supervision of a doctor and with a prescription. Discuss with your doctor any medications you are taking. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people suffering from ADHD have to test a variety of kinds and dosages of medications before settling on the one that is right for them.
Prevention
In some instances, reducing exposure to environmental triggers may help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to the way you eat, your sleeping habits, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can guide you on how to manage triggers and suggest an dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Children can also be assisted by keeping their routines the same, limiting caffeine and sugar and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid taking supplements that do not have scientific backing or that may be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should see a mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist for an assessment. The doctor will review medical records, conduct physical examinations and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, examine the person's behavior in different environments and apply standard rating scales. The therapist will assess the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as being aware of whether they have an impact on a person's everyday life.
Therapists may collaborate with a patient and their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also train the patient in metacognitive skills which includes the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of options. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide complete care.
Parents can assist by offering a safe family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an excellent sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. They should encourage their child to interact with others and establish a healthy bond between them and their loved ones.
The staff at the school may offer valuable information regarding the behavior and learning challenges of a child however, they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions must be made by the student's parents, health provider, and teacher with the support of each other.