How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, but it can affect adults as well. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can help improve a person's life.
An assessment for ADHD could involve a conversation with the person and family members. The specialist may examine the school records of the past to determine if symptoms began as when a child.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying organized from time to time, but for someone who suffers from 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 way they function in their daily lives to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for a minimum of six months.
A doctor will ask the patient about their symptoms, and also about any medical concerns and family history. They may also employ rating systems to gauge symptoms in adults or children. These types of questionnaires are typically built on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults might be asked to talk to their significant other or someone who knows them well. This isn't to question the honesty of the patient, but to gain insight into a person's behavior that can't be obtained from the answers to a questionnaire. They may ask about childhood behaviors and use old school records to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis the doctor will perform a thorough physical examination and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions for thyroid issues or head injuries, which can cause similar symptoms. The provider will also check the person's list of medications. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other ailments may interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into account when suggesting treatment options. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to consult their primary care physicians in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in at least two settings (such as at home, school, and work) and affect the functioning of the individual. The symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12 and can't be caused by a different disorder like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional will use various tools to assess the patient, including ADHD symptom lists, standardized behaviour rating scales, and a detailed medical history. They can also speak with family members or friends to determine how the symptoms have affected them. They'll ask whether the symptoms are similar to those of other mental health conditions or physical conditions.
Evaluators will take into account whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also look at the medical history of the patient and family history to ensure there is no root cause of their problems like thyroid disorders and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some instances the evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or ask the person to take an imaging test in order to rule out other causes of their symptoms such as learning disabilities. People with these disorders often show different symptoms than those without these problems. For instance, boys tend to have hyperactive symptoms while girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD might be interested in participating in an experiment in order to test out new treatments. While this is a great opportunity to contribute to further research, it is important for participants to understand that the main purpose of these studies is to acquire information from the scientific community and does not necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information on clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect that you may have ADHD seek out a specialist who is certified to recognize the disorder. Make sure to check with your health insurance provider to see whether ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek referrals from family doctors or other health professionals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are an alternative.
A doctor will inquire with the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about their issues. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask other people in the patient's life for information, such as their spouses and families. Personal experience often reveals more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
An expert will also want to review any records that the individual may have, including old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually based on the history of the individual. To be considered diagnosed, symptoms must have existed from childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical exam is also performed. It's also a way to check for any other medical conditions that could cause symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological examination, which tests for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that test the level of intelligence and ability can be used. Additionally the person could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that test attention and memory. This can help an expert determine whether a person is hyperactive or not. The specialist will then decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. The typical treatment plan includes therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help adults and children learn healthy ways to cope and change destructive thought patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary physician or a mental health specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD get better by taking medication. However it is not the only method of treating the condition. Adults, teens and children are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or the combination of both. These therapies assist them to cope and live with their ADHD symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can also include family members, teachers and professionals.
It is important to find a medical professional or mental health professional with previous experience treating ADHD. You can ask others with ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health provider you know. diagnosis for adhd can also conduct an online search. It's important to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
To diagnose ADHD to determine the cause, a health care provider will ask about your or your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by the condition. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over your your child's medical and family history, school records and other reports.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be a bit more difficult due to the fact that the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your doctor may interview you or your children about their symptoms and request that other people who spend lots of time with them fill out 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 such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD also have comorbid disorders, including anxiety or depression. Therefore, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy which teaches techniques such as time and task management and emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also assist patients manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is important as well. People with ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar and less fruit and vegetables. Making social and family relationships a priority can reduce stress and make individuals feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can help children and adults better comprehend their difficulties. A child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to teachers or peers. Once a teacher understands that this is not a personal issue or due to laziness they can offer adjustments.
A professional who is evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are targeted towards the person's specific age, interview family and teachers, review medical records, and check for any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms started before adulthood, school records can be helpful for adults.
A physical exam is usually included, and the specialist will likely look for vision and hearing problems. He or she will also do a blood test to look for certain hormones as well as other health issues that may cause ADHD-like symptoms.