How to Diagnose ADHD
To diagnose ADHD, providers use clinical interviews, behavior rating scales and checklists of symptoms which are completed by the patient and others in his or her life, as well as psychiatric history and medical information. Psychotherapy is also used to treat symptoms.
To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to have at least six symptoms that started before the age of 12 and impede your daily activities in two settings (home and school, and social situations). It is important to get the correct diagnosis before choosing a treatment plan.
History of Symptoms
When a patient decides that they'd like to consult an expert for ADHD, the doctor will look at their symptoms and determine if they satisfy the diagnostic criteria. These are listed in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association. To be considered diagnosed, the symptoms must have been present for at least six months. The person must be suffering from at minimum five ADHD symptoms that are ongoing and the symptoms are affecting their functioning in at least two different settings, such as at school and work. Additionally, the individual's ADHD symptoms can't be better than another mental health issue.
The doctor will first talk to the patient to learn about their symptoms and their impact on their lives. They will also inquire with the person about their family history, and also their medical and mental health histories.
People who have symptoms of ADHD often have trouble organizing or finishing tasks. They may forget work or personal appointments. They are easily distracted during conversations or lectures by phone calls or television. They may be unfocused, fidgety or talking too much, interrupting others or having trouble waiting their turn in activities or games. Adults with ADHD might have difficulty making decisions, following through and avoiding their hands from things they shouldn't.
If the symptoms of ADHD aren't addressed, they can lead to serious consequences, such as traffic violations or accidents. They can also impact relationships and be difficult to live with. Getting a diagnosis can help someone take control of their life and manage their symptoms with medication, lifestyle changes or therapy.
However, the stigma attached to ADHD can deter people from seeking treatment or an evaluation. The people who suffer from ADHD are still frequently accused of being lazy or not trying. They also run the risk of being disregarded in the workplace due to a shortage of child and adolescent psychiatrists and face obstacles to accessing psychiatric medications which includes stigma and fears about the risks and side effects.
Physical Examination
It is essential to speak with an expert in mental health who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. This person may be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a family doctor. A thorough evaluation should include an assessment of the clinical situation as well as diagnostic tests and questionnaires. The examiner will also inquire regarding the person's medical history, as well as her development and behavior going back to the time of childhood. The examiner may benefit from speaking with people who know the patient, like parents, spouses, or parent for adults; coaches, teachers religious leaders, Scout leaders in the case of children, in order to obtain information about their observations.
A physical examination is necessary to rule out health problems which could trigger symptoms that resemble ADHD, such as hearing and vision issues, thyroid disease or sleep disorders. A X-ray and other laboratory tests may be required as well.
The most valuable information comes from what the patient says about their symptoms and how these symptoms have affected them. It is crucial that the doctor listens to the patient's words. Rushing through an ADHD assessment could lead to a misdiagnosis and not getting the right details.
Experts agree that ADHD can only be diagnosed in adults if the symptoms were present in childhood. Adults can't "grow out" of ADHD however, they could be affected by changes in lifestyle or a new job. One may have trouble meeting the expectations of a new job that requires frequent meetings.
When problems first appear it's a good idea to refer your child to a specialist. This increases the likelihood that the problem is identified and addressed quickly, and also minimizes the risk of a wrong diagnosis which could have serious long-term consequences. Parents should speak with their school's counselor or the principal to get referrals to health care professionals who are able to perform ADHD assessments. Adults can consult their family and friends for recommendations or contact a local group to get names of qualified professionals. A person can also ask his or primary care provider or a psychiatric hospital for an alphabetical list of specialists.
Psychological tests
Psychological testing is a crucial element of diagnosing ADHD. It is able to confirm the diagnosis and give an accurate assessment of the symptoms, and their impact on a person's daily life. Testing can also help identify other mental health issues that might co-occur with ADHD like anxiety or depression. It can also inform interventions and accommodations.
There are a variety of psychological tests that help diagnose ADHD in children. These can include rating scales, direct observation of behavior and neuropsychological tests. Interviews with teachers and parents are also conducted to obtain an overall picture of the child.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults is more difficult. The DSM-V symptoms guide is actually designed to diagnose children, and the best method to make an accurate diagnosis for adults is through an exhaustive interview conducted by an expert in ADHD who takes the time to evaluate the patient's history. Some healthcare practitioners also use computer programs to measure the impulsivity and attention of patients, and brain scans are often employed as well.
The amount of time it takes to complete a thorough psychological assessment will vary and one can anticipate to spend a day at the clinic or hospital for a thorough neuropsychological examination for ADHD. It's a minimal time investment that will yield clear answers and a plan of action that will enhance your quality of life. Patients are often overwhelmed by their results, especially if they've been living with undiagnosed ADHD for a long period of time or for a long time.
Online ADHD self-assessments claim to give you an accurate, scientifically validated diagnosis of your symptoms. The majority of mental health experts do not recommend these tests since they do not take into consideration the complexity of psychiatric disorders and how they affect the way people live their lives. The only way to receive a diagnosis is through an evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional who adheres to DSM guidelines for ADHD. You can find a certified healthcare practitioner through your family doctor or request referrals from colleagues and friends who have had experience with ADHD.
Family History
Currently, under DSM-5 guidelines, a child must demonstrate symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity in two or more settings, including home and school, before a diagnosis can be made. Adults may be diagnosed with ADHD if they meet criteria in just one setting.
The health professional who is conducting the evaluation will interview the patient. how to get diagnosed with adhd as an adult will inquire about the patient's symptoms and how they affect daily functioning. She will ask about the person’s medical history as well as their family background. She will probably utilize a checklist, or a standard rating system, to determine if the signs are ADHD. She will also ask for information from various sources, including teachers, coaches and Scout leader and religious groups and family members and friends who spend a large amount of time with the person being evaluated.
A thorough psychiatric history should include a descriptions of symptoms by the patient and his family members, the filling out of questionnaires or rating scales by the patient and his family, and a review of a person's education level, environment and upbringing. A mental health care doctor or a medical professional may also perform tests to determine if a patient's symptoms are due to another condition like depression or anxiety disorders.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be tricky, as most of the DSM-5 symptoms guide is targeted toward children. A health professional with ADHD experience will typically conduct a clinical interview to determine the diagnosis. She will ask the patient as well as anyone who is familiar with him like his spouse or close friends whether he suffers from ADHD-related issues. She will also inquire about the presence of other conditions that could affect concentration, such as depression or drug abuse.
Ask your primary care physician for a referral to an expert in health care who is certified in ADHD evaluations. You can also reach out to an local ADHD support group or a mental health organization to get recommendations. Many insurance plans also list professionals by specialty and you can consult with your insurer to find out whether there are ADHD specialists in your area.