Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD
Many adults aren't diagnosed until their symptoms create major problems at work, school or home. Health professionals follow the diagnostic criteria set out in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
A complete evaluation includes ADHD symptom lists and standardized behavior ratings scales. Health care professionals also ask about family history and review old school records.
Symptoms
ADHD symptoms can affect the daily routine of a person regardless of whether at home, school or work. They can be disruptive to relationships and career, lead to serious problems with finances or driving licenses, and can even cause emotional distress for the person. It is common for people to experience difficulties in concentrating or staying organized occasionally. However when the issue gets more severe and affects everyday functioning, a medical provider may be able diagnose ADHD.
A health care professional must assess the person in two distinct environments, such as at home and at school, as well as in social and workplace situations. They must observe the person in these settings for at least six months, and they must determine that the symptoms are impairing their ability to perform. The symptoms also must have begun before the age of 12 years old. Children who meet diagnostic criteria for hyperactivity/impulsivity or inattentive type of ADHD usually are fidgety, talkative and have excess energy that keeps them from sitting still. They are usually in a hurry to finish their work and are often disruptive or intrude upon other children.
Children with the inattentive type of ADHD are not able to sit or stand quietly and have trouble following instructions or staying focused. They tend to be wandering off or distracted. They're more likely to be ignored and miss out on opportunities to learn, particularly in the early years of school, which can make them vulnerable to failure later in life.
The hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD is most common in children and involves the presence of at least six symptoms that include extreme restlessness, trouble with paying attention, constant movement or "on the go" behavior, excess energy and talkativeness. They have difficulty waiting their turn or staying still. They also have difficulty controlling their emotions.
It can be a relief to receive the diagnosis of ADHD but it's not always simple. It's okay to feel embarrassed. But, honesty is the best policy. A diagnosis might be the first time that someone realizes that their struggles have a label. Understanding this can change the way they see themselves, which can then result in positive changes.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms manifest at different times in children and adults. For kids, they typically begin in elementary school, but for adults, it's later. The symptoms could be mild, moderate or severe. They can also be a combination of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity or more focused on one or the other. In some cases, the condition may be misdiagnosed as autistic or an anxiety disorder or depression.
If your child or teenager shows indications of ADHD The first step is to consult your doctor. They will do an examination of the body that includes hearing and vision, to make sure there's nothing else going on. You and your child will be asked to write the list of symptoms. They will ask what the effects of their symptoms are on their school and home life. They'll also want hear about any past problems they've faced.
For adults, a medical professional who is qualified to diagnose ADHD will use clinical interviews and behavior rating scales or symptom checklists to determine whether they meet the criteria for diagnosis. They could also conduct psychological tests to gauge your cognitive abilities and discover how you process information and think. They could also conduct a brain scan with the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA), a tool that measures brain activity in certain parts of the brain that regulate your attention and your impulsivity.
They will also review your medical records to determine whether there are any additional mental conditions or injuries, for example head trauma or thyroid problems which can trigger similar symptoms. They might refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a thorough evaluation.
You must be suffering from at least six symptoms which began in childhood or before the age of 12. The symptoms must have been present for at least 6 months and be causing serious difficulties in your daily life. Adults must meet a lower threshold to be diagnosed, but the same criteria apply: You must have a minimum of five or more symptoms, and these should affect your work, home and social life.
Treatment
The aim of treatment is to alleviate symptoms and restore functioning at school, home and at work. There are a range of treatment options including treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Some people experience satisfaction by making lifestyle changes, such as using planners, notebooks and arranging tasks ahead of time. Other people may benefit from specific learning disabilities treatments, such as metacognitive training to help to improve their organizational skills and problem-solving abilities or cognitive behavioral therapy to address cognitive distortions that can cause negative moods and low self-esteem.
Specially trained health care professionals will provide the best treatment plan based on the patient's particular situation. They will assess the patient's current symptoms, and when they are an adult, their childhood behaviour and schooling experiences. They will use clinical interviewing, behavior rating scales and symptom checklists to determine if the individual is in compliance with ADHD diagnostic criteria. They may also take a family history of mental health issues and physical ailments. They will inquire about the person's moods and behaviors and how they've changed over time.
adhd in adults diagnosis of ADHD is made by analyzing six or more symptoms, which begin before 12 years of age and create problems in at least two different settings (at school, at home, or in social situations). The symptoms must be present for at minimum six months. The symptoms must be more severe than what is normal for someone that age.
There are no brain scans or blood tests to determine ADHD however a medical checkup usually is done to make sure there's nothing else wrong with the individual. Doctors will review the patient's medical and psychiatric history and review their symptoms. They may also suggest an eye or hearing test. Some people who suffer from ADHD have a genetic predisposition to develop the condition. Anyone who has a parent or sibling with ADHD has an 85% chance of develop the disorder. It's also common to have a comorbid mood anxiety disorder that is associated with ADHD. These disorders can be more difficult to treat than ADHD by itself.
The following is a list of preventatives.
Many things, such as medical conditions and some types of learning disabilities can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. It's important to consult an expert in mental health or health care provider for an evaluation prior to making the diagnosis. The professional will inquire with your child about their symptoms and how they impact their daily lives. They may also use rating scales or a checklist to help determine if your child suffers from ADHD. They can also conduct an examination and test for visual or hearing issues. They may also request a brain scan called an EEG, which analyzes beta and theta waves to detect changes in your child's brain function.
Children diagnosed with ADHD have symptoms that are significantly more than what is normal for their age and development level. The symptoms of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity must cause significant problems at school, at home or work. The symptoms can also impact your child's ability to interact with other people. If your child suffers from moderate or severe ADHD, they will require medication in order to lead a normal life.
Children suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to follow instructions and remain on task, which can lead to poor grades and low self-esteem. They may also have difficulty with social interactions, since they are unable to recognize social signals. They often interrupt others and can appear aggressive or intense. They are at high risk for depression, anxiety and alcohol abuse.
Mild ADHD is defined by symptoms that are visible but do not hinder everyday life. It can making it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate to severe ADHD will have more symptoms, and are more likely than other people to experience problems at work, such as difficulty keeping a job, or interacting with colleagues.
People who do not receive treatment could face serious consequences. These include financial problems as well as health and legal issues. There are many treatments for ADHD. These include behavioral therapy, psychosocial interventions including nutrition and diet, exercise, sleep improvement and even medications. NIMH offers more information on these options and how to speak with your family members about these options.