How to Diagnose ADHD
The process of obtaining an ADHD diagnosis is more than just a clinical interview. There are a variety of diagnostic assessments are used including self-assessments, physical examinations, questionnaires, psychiatric and medical history, family history, and neuropsychological tests.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the patient must meet certain criteria for inattention and/or hyperactivity that affects daily functioning. Adults must exhibit symptoms that began in childhood and cannot be explained by any other disorder.
1. Watching
It's important to consult your doctor if you believe that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD. ADHD is a complicated condition that is difficult to determine since the symptoms are similar to other conditions such as sleep disorders or depression. Doctors employ a combination of physical examination as well as behavioral tests and questionnaires to determine if a person has ADHD.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, an individual must display symptomatic behavior in more than one setting such as work and school, and the symptoms must be a source of significant impairment as cited by at least one other person. The symptoms must also be present in the early years, prior to the age of 12, and should have lasted for at minimum six months. A loss of employment, a lot of conflict in a marriage, failure to pay bills on schedule, or a lackluster grade can all be signs of impairment.
During an in-depth clinical interview an expert in health care who is evaluating ADHD will interview your child or you about your past and present problems and signs. The professional may also request to speak to people who know your child or you well such as parents teachers, coaches, and coworkers. They will inquire about how often your child or you has a problem with things or is late to appointments, or fails to finish tasks. They will also observe if you or your child is easily distracted, has difficulty sitting still or interrupts others.
It is also crucial to find out the level of training that the professional has received and their level of expertise working with adults suffering from ADHD. Reluctance to provide this information should be viewed with suspicion and may be an indicator that the expert isn't a good match for you or your family.
2. Questionnaires
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is a crucial first step in managing the condition. Inattention and forgetfulness, mood swings and inability to focus are all symptoms of ADHD. Certain people also experience problems with their relationships. If a person is diagnosed with the condition and is able to take steps to improve their lives, such as taking medication to help them focus and avoiding distractions.
A trained evaluator employs questionnaires and standardized behaviour rating scales to gather information on the behaviours of a person. Questionnaires are typically used with children and teens however, they can also be administered to adults. They can be administered by parents, teachers, school/workplace staff and other important people in the person's life.
These ratings can be helpful in identifying specific types of symptoms, and also excluding other issues that could be responsible for them. For instance, mood disorders, anxiety, or other psychiatric diseases. They can also be useful in evaluating whether the person has a disability under ADA (American with Disabilities Act) which would permit them to be entitled to certain workplace accommodations.
During the evaluation, the assessor will inquire about a person's personal life, their development, their family, and their lifestyle. They might also talk to people who are part of the person's life which includes close friends, teachers, and coaches. They will seek evidence that the person's symptoms are affecting them at home or at work, as well as socially. They will ask you to explain if your symptoms began in childhood and aren't explained by other conditions.
Some evaluators will conduct tests that look for other mental and emotional disorders that could be contributing to the ADHD symptoms, like depression or bipolar disorder. They may also conduct cognitive tests to determine if there are learning disabilities or other issues that could cause similar symptoms.
3. Interviews
It is difficult to determine ADHD by a brief office visit or a conversation. A qualified mental health professional or physician will collect a detailed description of your behavior as well as symptoms lists and the standardized ADHD behavior rating scales. They will also ask you about your family history and social background. They might also interview your teachers, parents, or any other individuals who know you well. They might want to look up your work or school records and medical information. They will test your cognitive abilities and take note of how well you perform in certain tasks. They may also conduct additional tests to rule out illnesses like thyroid or seizure disorders which can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
A thorough evaluation by a psychologist or doctor may take several weeks. It is essential to be honest and not cover up symptoms or pretend they don't exist. The evaluators may ask you to speak with your spouse or other family members who know you well, about your symptoms and if they were present during childhood. They will also ensure that your symptoms are not caused by a different disorder such as depression or anxiety.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a proper diagnosis. It will help them get the treatment they require and get the support that they need. It's also a requirement to get workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other federal laws prohibiting discrimination against people with disability. Getting diagnosed can be hard but it's the initial step to understanding how to manage your ADHD symptoms and eventually taking control of your life. A ADHD diagnosis can help to improve your confidence in all aspects of your life.
4. Physical Exam
A physical exam can appear daunting, but it is important to the diagnosis process. A health professional will inspect your mouth, ears and nose to check for red marks or any other indications of infection. The examiner may also look at your eyes to determine if there are any issues with your vision. They may also use other tools to examine your neck, head and back. diagnosis for adhd may ask you to sit still or move about while they watch you.
The evaluator will look over the American Psychiatric Society's diagnostic guidelines in the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition" (DSM-5) to see whether or not you suffer from ADHD symptoms. The examiner will look at the impact of your symptoms on your life to determine if you're in need of treatment. This can include losing your job due impulsive purchases, having trouble paying your bills, or being placed on academic probation in college.
In addition to conducting an interview with you the evaluator will likely talk to other people who know you well. This could include your spouse, children or other family members. In some cases the evaluator may decide to reach out to teachers and other professionals to get more detailed information about your symptoms.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD can be an emotional experience for a lot of adults. They might feel happy to finally have an explanation for their ailment or might be overwhelmed by the possibility of seeking treatment. It is essential to seek an assessment for those who suspect they have ADHD, regardless of how they feel. This will enable them to receive the assistance they require and improve their overall quality of life.
5. Medical Histories
It is essential for health professionals to know your medical history to rule out physical causes of ADHD symptoms. They can also ask questions of your spouse, family members, or close friends, and anyone else who may have more information about the symptoms of your child or yourself and their impact on daily life. You may also be asked to complete questionnaires that provide your health professional with a more complete picture of your or your child's development, educational and social history.
Many people feel relief getting a diagnosis of ADHD, knowing that their child or they aren't lazy or incompetent but have a mental disorder that requires special treatment and intervention. It can also be a source of anxiety for those who are given the diagnosis, as they feel ashamed and embarrassed that their ADHD symptoms aren’t just "normal."
Consult your primary care doctor for recommendations when selecting an expert who will conduct an ADHD evaluation. It is also helpful to conduct your research and find out the professional degrees your prospective specialist holds and their level of expertise working with adults with ADHD. You can also inquire with your insurance company to discover who they have listed as competent providers and if they have an ADHD support group in your area.