ADHD Screening Test - The First Step to Diagnosing ADHD
If you think that your child or you has ADHD, the first step is to make an appointment to get the diagnosis. Only an accurate diagnosis can aid in understanding and treating this condition.
During the examination the doctor will ask you questions regarding how your health has changed from your childhood. They might also employ behavior rating scales as well as symptom checklists.
Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, you need to gather as much information as possible about the person. This might include getting an exam for physical examination, collecting health and school records or talking to family members as well as teachers, coworkers, and other close friends. It is also important to rule out any other conditions that may cause symptoms that mimic ADHD such as thyroid problems, seizures and some kinds of anxiety disorders.
The doctor will also want to know about how the issues have affected the patient's life and relationships. This might involve asking questions like whether they have trouble finishing tasks or become easily distracted, especially if they frequently lose things, struggle with managing their time or are always getting late for work or social events. For children, the physician may also ask about whether the symptoms began before 12.
Psychiatrists, psychologists and some physicians are trained in diagnosing ADHD in children and adults. They use the standard criteria, as laid out by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) to determine if the symptoms are in line with the diagnostic requirements for a diagnosis of ADHD. The DSM-5 defines the main categories of ADHD as inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. To be diagnosed with ADHD you must exhibit at least six symptoms in each category for a minimum of six month.
It is crucial to understand that a diagnosis of ADHD is not a denial. Many people who suffer from ADHD experience mild symptoms. They can manage their symptoms with medication, therapy and a healthy lifestyle.
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is a stimulant. It comes in a variety of forms such as tablets and liquids. A health professional can prescribe the correct dosage and medication for the patient. They can also provide advice on healthy lifestyle habits which can improve the symptoms of ADHD, such as regular exercise and getting enough sleep. In some instances antidepressants and nonstimulant medications are employed to treat ADHD.
Diagnosis
An ADHD screening test is a first step in making an accurate diagnosis of the disorder. However, the best method to determine if you are suffering from ADHD is to schedule a medical evaluation with a mental health professional. A psychotherapist, psychiatrist, psychologist or neurologist are all able to perform an ADHD assessment.
Before determining a diagnosis, your mental health professional will review the American Psychiatric Association's clinical guidelines for the disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They will ask you or your child if symptoms have been present for at least six months. They will also look over you or your child's medical, psychiatric and family history.
The person who is being evaluated could be asked to provide input from other sources, such as spouses or other family members about their symptoms. This will help the mental health professional create an accurate picture of the person's behavior and experience with ADHD. The doctor will also use standardized ADHD behavior scales and ask the patient about their previous experiences with school, work and relationships, as well as their hobbies.
It is crucial for a mental health professional to recognize that other disorders may mimic ADHD symptoms. Therefore, they need to exclude other conditions such as thyroid problems or seizures before determining if someone has ADHD.
In some instances, a mental health professional will recommend a physical exam. This is crucial for adults as certain medical conditions can cause the similar symptoms as ADHD.
After a mental health professional determines a diagnosis and confirms the diagnosis, they will explain that the condition is likely caused by neurological issues, for example, an overactive or underactive hypothalamus. Genetic predisposition, poor nutrition and environmental factors like stress, substance abuse and poor nutrition are common causes.
The mental health professional then will discuss the treatment options. For many choosing the right combination of treatments allows them to manage their ADHD symptoms and live their lives to the maximum. Some people can find accommodations at work and school like being able to take tests in a private space or having an extended break between classes, that makes their lives easier.
Treatment
Diagnosing ADHD symptoms is often the first step in controlling the symptoms. They can cause serious problems, whether at work, school or at home. Treatment options include medication and therapy. Therapy can help someone improve their time management skills and develop methods for improving their organization, like daily planners or lists. A therapist can help teach the skills of social interaction and emotional regulation. If a child suffers from co-existing issues, like anxiety or depression, counseling may help with those too.
The health care professional conducting the examination can ask a series questions and complete the neuropsychological or psychological exam. These tests evaluate the performance of a person with those of people who are typical with similar age. These tests can reveal the severity of a person's condition, whether they suffer from a learning disorder or any other disorders that might be related to or resemble ADHD. The doctor may offer the person a questionnaire and interview other adults, such as teachers or babysitters to get more information about their behavior, problems, and habits.
For adults, health care professionals use the same criteria for diagnosing ADHD as they do for children: six or more established symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning. The doctor may also wish to review the school records of the past to determine whether the patient had issues in their childhood. Adults often have a hard recalling their issues in childhood, however, according to current diagnostic guidelines, the disorder can't be diagnosed if symptoms didn't occur frequently in more than one setting before the age of 12.
Before beginning private adhd testing , the doctor might check to see if any medical issues could be causing or aggravated the ADHD symptoms. This could include thyroid issues or seizures, which sometimes have similar symptoms to ADHD. A medical examination could include a vision or hearing test. The doctor may also speak with the person’s parents or other relatives, and talk about the issues they face at school or at work.
Medication
Stimulants like amphetamine and methylphenidate are among the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters which control attention and movements. Studies show that stimulants reduce the risk of drug abuse and other issues for children with ADHD, as long as they are used as directed. However, it is important to be aware of possible side effects, such as a decreased appetite, trouble sleeping and lung or heart problems in some children.
Doctors may prescribe non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine or guanfacine. They work slower than stimulants and are more secure for those with certain health issues or are unable to use stimulants due to undesirable side effects, such as anxiety or ringing in the ears, or changes in vision or the function of the heart and lungs. They may also aid in treating tic disorders such as Tourette Syndrome. Certain antidepressants, like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and bupropion are also used to treat ADHD. However, these have not been specifically approved by the FDA for this purpose and may interact with stimulants.
It has been proven that other types of medications such as those that treat high blood pressure, can also improve ADHD symptoms. They haven't been studied as extensively as stimulants.
In adults, a mix of medication, behavior therapy and skills training is often the most effective treatment. Adults who receive this combination treatment feel more in control of their symptoms and are able to manage their symptoms.
If you suspect that you or someone you know has symptoms of ADHD you should ask your doctor or mental health professional for a referral to an expert. You can also contact the hospital of a university or medical or graduate school for recommendations, or look on your insurance plan's list of specialists by specialty.
You can also use self-assessment tools to determine whether you suffer from ADHD. The American College of Psychiatrists Adult ADHD Self Report Scale is an easy checklist that can be used to determine whether you suffer from ADHD symptoms.