How to Diagnose ADHD
To get an ADHD diagnosis is more than just a clinical interview. Diagnostic tests include self-assessments physical examinations, questionnaires and medical, psychiatric and family histories, as well as neuropsychological tests.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the patient must meet certain criteria for inattention and/or hyperactivity that interferes with daily activities. For adults, the symptoms must have started in childhood and can't be explained by other disorders.
1. Watching
If you suspect that you or your child may be suffering from ADHD, it's important to see a physician. ADHD is a multifaceted disorder that is difficult to identify due to the fact that symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions such as depression or sleep disorders. Doctors usually use a mix of physical exams, behavioral testing and questionnaires to determine whether someone is suffering from ADHD.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, an individual must display manifest symptoms in more than one setting such as work and school and cause significant impairment as reported by at least one other person. The symptoms must also be present in the early years, prior to the age of 12 and must have lasted at least six months. Impairment can include losing a job, excessive conflict and distress in a marriage or relationship, not paying bills on time or missing out on college scholarships because of the absence of grades.
In a thorough interview The health care professional who assesses ADHD will interview you or your child about their previous and current problems and symptoms. The professional may also request to speak to others who know your child or you well, such as parents, teachers, coaches or coworkers. They will inquire about how often your child or you gets lost or is late for appointments, or fails to follow through on tasks. They will also note if you or your child is easily distracted or has trouble sitting still or interrupts others.
It is also important to inquire about the professional's training and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. If the professional refuses to share this information, it may be an indication that they're not suitable for you or your family.
2. Questionnaires
The diagnosis of ADHD is the first step towards managing this disorder. Inattention, forgetfulness, mood changes and a lack of focus are all signs of ADHD. Some people also have issues with their relationships. If an individual is diagnosed with the disorder it is possible to take steps to improve their life quality, such as taking medication to help with their focus and avoidance of distractions.
To determine a diagnosis, a trained evaluator will use questionnaires and standard behavior rating scales to gather information about the person's symptoms. Questionnaires are typically used with children and teens however, they can also be administered to adults. Teachers, parents, staff at the school/workplace and other significant people in one's life could provide them with.
These ratings can be used to pinpoint particular kinds of symptoms and rule out other problems that may be causing them, such as anxiety, mood disorders or other psychiatric disorders. They can also be useful in evaluating whether the person is a disabled person under ADA (American with Disabilities Act) which would allow them to be entitled to certain workplace accommodations.
During the interview the examiner will ask questions about the person's development as well as family and lifestyle habits and may also interview other people in their life including close family members as well as teachers and coaches. They will seek evidence that the symptoms of the person have an impact on their work, at home and socially. They'll want to know if the symptoms started in childhood and cannot be explained by other conditions.
Some evaluators may conduct broad spectrum testing to check for other psychiatric or emotional issues, such as depression or bipolar disorder, that may be causing ADHD symptoms. They may also conduct cognitive tests to determine if there are learning disabilities or any other problems that could cause similar symptoms.
3. Interviews
It is impossible to diagnose ADHD from a short office observation or conversation. A qualified mental healthcare doctor or professional will gather the full account of your behavior that includes symptom lists and standard ADHD behavior rating scales. They will also ask about your family history and background. They may interview your parents, teachers or other people who know you well. They might want to look up your school or work records and medical information. They will test your cognitive abilities and make note of how well you perform in specific tasks. They may also perform other tests to rule-out conditions such as seizure or thyroid disorders which can cause symptoms similar ADHD.
A thorough assessment by a psychologist or doctor could take a few weeks. It is essential to be honest and not hide symptoms or pretend that they don't exist. Some experts will ask you to speak with your spouse or other people who know you well about your symptoms and if they were present during your childhood. They will also make sure that your symptoms are not caused by a different disorder such as anxiety or depression.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from a correct diagnosis. It can help them find the treatment they need and receive the help they require. It's also a requirement that they obtain workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other federal laws that ban discrimination against people with disability. It can be a challenge to get diagnosed but it's the first step toward understanding how to manage your ADHD symptoms and eventually gaining control of your life. A ADHD diagnosis can increase your confidence in all aspects of your life.
4. Physical Examination
It can be a bit daunting to undergo a physical examination but it's vital to establish the diagnosis. A health professional will inspect your ears, mouth and nose to check for red marks or other indications of infection. The examiner will also examine your eyes to look for vision issues. Other tools will be used to check your neck, back and head. You might be asked to sit in a seated position or move as they look at you.
The evaluator will review the American Psychiatric Society's diagnostic guidelines, which are found in the “Diagnostic and statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition" (DSM-5), to determine if you have ADHD symptoms. The examiner will assess how your symptoms affect your life and determine if they are serious enough to be considered a medical issue. This could include losing your job due to impulsive purchases, or having difficulty paying your bills or being placed on academic probation at your college.
The evaluator could also talk to people who are familiar with you. This could include your spouse, children and other family members. In how to get adult adhd diagnosis ADHD Diagnosis , an evaluator may want to reach out to teachers or other professionals to collect more information about your symptoms.
Many adults may be afflicted with emotional turmoil after they are diagnosed with ADHD. They might feel relieved to finally have an explanation for their ailment or might be overwhelmed by the prospect of seeking treatment. Regardless of the emotions that surface, it is important to get the diagnosis in the event that they believe they suffer from ADHD. This will allow them to seek the help they need and improve their lives.
5. Medical Histories
To determine if there is a physical cause for ADHD, it's important that healthcare professionals are aware of your medical history. They might also interview your spouse, family members or close friends as well as anyone else who can provide more insight into your or your child's issues and their influence on your daily life. You might also be asked to complete questionnaires that will provide your health professional a clearer understanding of the growth, education and social background of you or your child.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief for many who know that they or their child is not just lazy or incompetent but are suffering from an illness that requires specialized intervention and treatment. But, it can also be an anxious time for those who receive the diagnosis as they have to deal with feelings of shame and embarrassment that their ADHD symptoms aren't simply "normal."
Ask your primary care physician for recommendations before choosing the right specialist to conduct an ADHD assessment. It is also beneficial to conduct your research and find out what professional degrees your potential specialist holds as well as their level of experience working with adults with ADHD. You can also call your insurance provider and ask who they list as competent experts. Also, you can find out if there are any ADHD support groups in your area.