How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a symptom only of children, but it can also affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in a person's life.
A diagnosis for ADHD might include interviewing the person and family members. The specialist may look over old school records to determine whether symptoms began in the early years of childhood.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time-to-time, but for someone who has ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with work, school and family life. A person must show major symptoms in two of these areas and that they significantly affect the daily functioning of the person to be deemed to have ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire of the patient about his or her symptoms, and also regarding any medical issues or family history. They may also use rating scales to assess a adult's or a child's symptoms. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions about the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Adults might be asked to talk to their spouse or someone they know well. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty, but rather to gain a better understanding of their behavior that cannot be obtained from an interview. You can also inquire about their childhood behavior and consult old school records to determine whether the signs started before age 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct an examination and lab tests to rule out other health conditions, such as head injuries or thyroid issues that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the person's list of medications. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other conditions can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into consideration when recommending treatment options. This is why it's important for adults to talk to their primary care providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in two or more settings (like school, home and work) and significantly interfere with functioning. The symptoms must be evident before the age of 12 and can't be caused by a different disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional or doctor will employ a variety of tools during the assessment, including ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a thorough history. They might also talk to friends and family members to determine how the individual's symptoms have affected them. They'll inquire if the symptoms are similar to those of other psychiatric disorders or physical ailments.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also review the person's medical and family background to determine if there is any root causes behind their condition like thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In certain instances the examiner may decide to conduct cognitive testing or request that the person take an imaging test in order to determine the cause of their symptoms like learning disabilities. These people often present differently than those who do not have these issues. For instance, boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms and girls show inattention symptoms.
adhd diagnosis adults uk with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical study to try out new treatments. This is a fantastic chance to conduct further research. However, participants should be aware that the primary objective of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and is not a guarantee of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information on clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect they may have ADHD it is important to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider whether ADHD specialists will be covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for recommendations. Word-of-mouth recommendations are an option.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents in children's cases -- about symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and ask for details from other people in the patient's life, including spouses and family members. Personal insight can provide more information than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
An expert will also want to look over any documents that the individual may have, especially old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must be present since the age of a child (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical examination is also carried out. It is a way to identify any other medical problems that could be causing the symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological exam, which checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that measure intelligence and abilities may also be used. The test subject may be required to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This will help the professional determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive or hyperactive or impulsive. The expert will decide on the treatment plan and provide a diagnosis. The typical treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults as well as children healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy can be done by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are helped by medication. However this isn't the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination can be beneficial for children, teens, and adults. These therapies aid them in coping and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and how to manage it, may be included. They can involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It is essential to find an expert in mental health or health care professional with experience treating ADHD. You can ask for suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or conduct an online search. It's important to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
To diagnose ADHD, the health care provider will ask about your your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by the condition. They will do an examination and check for other health problems which could trigger similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of your child or you along with school documents and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V), which is primarily geared towards diagnosing children and adolescents, has a harder time diagnosing ADHD in adults. Your doctor will talk to you or your child about the signs and may request other people who spend long periods of time with them to complete questionnaires and checklists. They will use these to help them decide whether you or your child has inattentive ADHD, hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, combined ADHD or unspecified ADHD. ADHD medications include stimulants like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomox as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work by increasing and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders such as depression or anxiety. Treatment should therefore include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills such as time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also help patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is essential too. People who suffer from ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar and less fruits and vegetables. Making social and family relationships priority can help reduce stress and make individuals feel more in control of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides children and adults a clearer comprehension of their issues. A child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to their teachers or friends. When a teacher is aware that this isn't a personal issue or because of their inability to communicate, they can provide accommodations.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions geared to the individual's age, speak with family and teachers, read medical records, and look for any comorbidities. For adults, school records might be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms began before age.
The expert will also check for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. The doctor may also conduct a blood test to look for specific hormones and other health issues that may cause ADHD-like symptoms.