Is There a Medical Test For ADHD?
There isn't a medical test available for adults suffering from ADHD. However it can be identified accurately by a qualified mental health care doctor or a medical professional who collects information about the person's symptoms from several sources.
The specialist will also interview people who know the person. They may also interview people who know the person. For instance an adult sibling or spouse for an adult; and teachers, coaches and nannies for children.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can make it difficult to stick to a schedule, focus at school or at work, and keep track of deadlines. A diagnosis can help you better manage these symptoms when you or someone you love suffers from them. It can also offer an uplifting feeling of relief, as you will understand it was not laziness or inexperience that stood in the way of success, but rather an underlying issue that can be treated with medication and other interventions.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM) offers guidelines for healthcare professionals to diagnose ADHD. The first step to get an assessment is for a health care professional to examine your symptoms. They will look at how long the symptoms have existed, whether they occur in more than one setting, and how much they impact your daily activities.
Your doctor will conduct an interview with you and, if appropriate family members or caregivers. He or she will also request a full medical and social history, which includes information about birth, development, family environment and education. Your doctor may order tests for blood to determine if there are any medical issues which could cause your symptoms.
Children with ADHD typically show more obvious signs of hyperactivity and impulsivity. They may fidget or be incapable of sitting still. They may disrupt others, fidget or have trouble waiting their turn. They might not complete tasks or play games. They may have a difficult time staying organized or keeping personal possessions in order.
Adults suffering from ADHD typically have difficulty in their careers and have an unflattering self-esteem as a result of the past of incomplete projects or failure to meet their expectations. They also have trouble managing their finances due to poor time management, forgetfulness and impulsive spending. ADHD-related behavioral problems can also result in anxiety, depression sleep disorders, and substance abuse.
If you're a member of an insurance plan that covers expenses of mental health services and treatment, ask your insurance provider for recommendations for a doctor qualified to perform an ADHD evaluation for adults. You can also contact your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (or CHADD) for a list professionals in your area. Many people with ADHD are part of support groups and can offer valuable recommendations.
Evaluation
All people of all ages suffering from ADHD are diagnosed following an extensive examination by a qualified health professional. They must meet a variety of criteria to qualify for the diagnosis: symptoms appear in more than one place, such as at school and at home; they persist for at least six months and the problems are severe enough to affect the daily routine at home, at work or at school. The symptoms must also be present before the age of 12 years old and can't be caused by any other disorder like anxiety or depression.
Doctors start by doing a general health exam that includes hearing and vision tests, to make sure that other factors aren't contributing to the symptoms. They'll then talk to you and your children about what's happening in your life. They'll inquire about your family history and your lifestyle, as well as when the symptoms started and what you do when you diagnosed adhd are anxious or stressed. They'll also request report cards, homework samples and other documents to help them assess the development of your child, or yourself in school and at work.
Some experts use an assessment scale to evaluate the symptoms of you or your child. Some experts will interview your teachers, family members and friends as well as conduct interviews with other caregivers. They can also interview your child's religious leader or coach when appropriate. Choosing the right specialist is essential. You should ask for recommendations from people you trust, and inquire how long they've been working. Find out if they are certified and what their qualifications are.
The evaluation process could take several weeks or even months and it's crucial to be honest with the specialist you choose. The symptoms of ADHD can vary from mild to severe. Many people with ADHD struggle to fit in at school or work. It's difficult to admit that you're having trouble paying attention or finishing tasks. It can be a relief to know that your difficulties are not simply due to a lack of focus or poor parenting. It's also comforting to know that there are solutions to manage your symptoms, including medication. It's important to remember that an ADHD diagnosis shouldn't be a stigma, and shouldn't hinder you from pursuing your goals.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis can trigger a variety of emotions for adults as well as teenagers who've been afflicted by symptoms for a while. The diagnosis can bring up mixed emotions for both teens and adults who have struggled with symptoms for a long time.
A mental health professional will assess a person's symptoms of ADHD by looking at a variety of aspects. These include an in-depth interview and the administration of tests of the psychological to assess how the individual performs on tasks like paying attention and recalling information. The evaluator also reviews school records and questionnaires that were completed by caretakers, teachers, and family members.
It is crucial to be honest and open with the specialist conducting your evaluation, since the results will affect the way you or your child will receive treatment. It is also important to let the evaluator know of any issues you or your child might have at home, at school or at work. This information will allow the evaluator determine what additional steps to take during the evaluation process.
During the interview the examiner will inquire about your difficulties with organizing, learning the tasks, planning and completing them. They will also ask you about your family's history and your social background to see whether any patterns of conduct are present. For instance, if your child was always losing their books and was in trouble in kindergarten, they'll likely want to speak with the school counselor or teacher to gain a better understanding of the situation.
The evaluator also needs to determine if there's a history of ADHD in your family, since it is highly heritable. In addition, they will assess how many of the six criteria for inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD are present to make a diagnosis.
It is important to note that in order for a person to be identified as having ADHD, their symptoms must be sufficient to affect their daily functioning and create distress. The person evaluating the patient must also look for other conditions that have similar symptoms.
Treatment
If the person's ADHD symptoms are severe, a health care specialist might recommend treatment with medications along with behavioral therapies. The type of medication and the doses used are based on the severity of the individual's symptoms and their impact on daily functioning. Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD. Because they can decrease appetite, these drugs should only be used with the approval of a physician. Stimulants can also cause side effects, including sleepiness, drowsiness dizziness, dry mouth, stomachaches, headaches and changes in appetite, or sex drive.
Psychologists who treat adults suffering from ADHD typically recommend that they seek self-help groups or counseling to improve their coping skills and management. They might also suggest cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which teaches families and patients a variety of strategies to manage symptoms. CBT helps with skills such as time management, organizational strategies, impulse control and emotional self-regulation.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD typically experience a large amount of guilt and anger over the ways their issues with hyperactivity, attention and impulsivity have affected their lives. They may regret missed chances in school, failures at school, and conflicts in relationships caused by their symptoms. A diagnosis of ADHD might provide them with the insight they need to begin reclaiming their life.
A therapist can show those suffering from ADHD how to manage their symptoms and reduce the impact they have on their daily life by teaching them coping techniques. They can assist patients in learning to plan and utilize tools such as calendars and planners for organizing. They can help individuals overcome mental distortions, such as the tendency to draw negative conclusions or see only negative aspects of a situation and create an authentic self-image.
Parents of children who suffer from ADHD may find that their school staff and teachers can help in providing information regarding the disorder and suggesting appropriate educational interventions. School staff cannot determine a child's condition or make treatment decisions and they aren't able to make students take medication. Teachers and other staff members can help students cope with symptoms by providing assistance in the classroom, or by making any adjustments needed to ensure that the student is performing at a high level.