• 목록
• 답변
• 글쓰기
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

Getting an ADHD Diagnosis

A diagnosis of ADHD is usually the first thing to be done to reduce symptoms that interfere in everyday life. Many people are hesitant to seek a diagnosis but it could be a great relief.

A clinical interview is typically the first step in an ADHD evaluation. Experts also use standardized checklists and may also conduct screening tests for coexisting disorders like mood disorders or learning disabilities.

Signs and symptoms

The disorder was first documented in medical science in 1902, and has been referred to by several names, most recently attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with or without hyperactivity (DSM-5). ADHD can be caused by an imbalance in chemicals in the brain. Adults suffering from ADHD often have trouble in completing tasks that require organization as well as paying attention in work or school and remembering important events. They are more prone to impulsive behavior like disrupting others, or disregarding rules. They might also have difficulties completing projects, keeping their appointments or paying their bills.

When seeking a diagnosis, it is important to find a clinician trained in ADHD. Request a referral from an established source like a local mental health organization or a support group. It is also a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see whether they have providers in their network who specialize in ADHD.

A thorough psychiatric assessment will include a thorough explanation of symptoms by the patient, review of personal and family history including any medical, psychiatric and educational issues, the completion of psychoeducational or neuropsychological tests, and a physical examination. In addition, the clinician will interview significant others, such as spouses or partners to determine the extent to which ADHD symptoms impact their lives. Many people with ADHD suffer from poor memories of their childhood. Therefore, it is helpful to ask parents or other family members complete questionnaires detailing the child's symptoms.

Adults suffering from ADHD can have a hard time admitting their problems result from their attention deficit disorder. They may be embarrassed, frustrated and ashamed for not being well-organized and focused at home and at work. They may also believe that their issues are due to their own shortcomings or character flaws. A diagnosis of ADHD could bring hope and a sense of relief for the future, and aid them in understanding that their issues aren't the responsibility.

Diagnosis

There is no one physical or medical test to determine ADHD (previously known as ADD). However an experienced mental health professional will gather information from a variety sources regarding your child's and adult's symptoms. These include ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a detailed account of the person's past and present behavior and information from people who know the person.

A thorough assessment could include a psycho-psychological examination like an inventory of personality or a neuropsychological test. A healthcare professional will also examine the medical background of the patient, including any current or past illnesses, injuries, and medications, including mood-stabilizing drugs like steroids.

It's important to recognize that other conditions and disorders may mimic the symptoms of ADHD. This includes learning disabilities, anxiety disorders and mood disorders as in addition to other medical conditions like thyroid condition and sleep apnea. A thorough psychiatric evaluation will help identify the root cause and identify effective treatment options.

An important consideration for determining ADHD is whether the person's symptoms cause significant impairment in at least two primary settings, including school and at home. This is particularly true for children and young people. These individuals may struggle to get through school, have difficulty maintaining jobs, and are having trouble maintaining friendships and relationships without being treated with respect.

It's crucial to seek an assessment from a medical professional who has experience working with children and adolescents. You can find numerous primary care physicians or mental health professionals who can diagnose ADHD. However, you should seek out a specialist who will conduct an exhaustive assessment. During the clinical interview the doctor will ask about your child's and your personal personal and family history, and will also review the criteria for diagnosing ADHD established by the American Psychiatric Association in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition.

Treatment

Many psychiatric disorders are similar to ADHD in adults and children, and a complete psychiatric evaluation is required to rule out other conditions. These include mood disorders, anxiety disorders as well as head injuries, learning disabilities, thyroid conditions and drug use. These alternative explanations can have a significant impact on quality of life.

A thorough mental health assessment usually includes an interview with the patient as well as checklists or questionnaires completed by other people in his or her life. This could include spouses and parents for children, as well siblings, friends, and coworkers for adults. Personal experience can provide information that is not gleaned from questions or checklists. It can also help the clinician understand how ADHD symptoms have affected the person's relationships with other people.

In addition to reviewing symptoms, the psychologist or psychiatrist will also examine the medical history of a patient. A physical exam is usually also performed, which includes vision and hearing tests. An electroencephalograph or EEG scan, which measures brain waves and can help identify the presence of ADHD, is available in some offices.

Some patients choose to participate in a clinical study to determine if the new medication they are taking can help their symptoms. Participants must be aware that the main purpose of a clinical trial is to learn new information and not to treat a specific condition.

Based on the results of the examination, the doctor may suggest treatment options that could include psychotherapy, medication or other treatments. In some instances, a combination treatment is the most effective. Certain medications can ease the symptoms and is generally safe for children and adults. Other methods that can be successful include the use of behavior therapy, lifestyle modifications and parenting strategies.

Medication

For certain people medication can ease symptoms of ADHD and increase their capacity to function. It can be challenging to find the best medication and dosage and it can take a while to adjust to side effects. It is essential to talk to your doctor if you feel tired or sleepy after taking certain medications.

Psychiatrists can prescribe stimulants, which increase the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain to lessen the symptoms of ADHD. They may also prescribe non-stimulant medication that can help enhance impulsivity and attention but are not quite as effective as stimulants. They can also prescribe antidepressants and mood stabilisers for people with depression and other disorders that may be present with ADHD.

Other treatments that can aid those suffering from ADHD include psychotherapy, family therapy and training or educational programs for children and adults. These treatments can help people learn strategies and techniques to deal with the symptoms and improve their functioning at home and in school.

A mental or medical professional may be able identify ADHD in a young child by reviewing the school records of the child and discussing his behavior with caregivers and teachers. They may interview the child, conduct psychological tests and look for signs of learning disabilities and other disorders with similar symptoms.

For a child to be diagnosed with ADHD the child must exhibit at least six of the nine symptoms outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV TR) and these symptoms must significantly hinder adaptive functioning at home and in the classroom. They should also not be caused by any other medical condition.

Counseling

If you need treatment or medication for ADHD seek out a licensed professional who has experience treating the disorder. Your primary physician can provide a recommendation or refer you to specialists in your region. Certain specialists who specialize in ADHD also offer online telemedicine that makes appointments simple and convenient. Many insurance companies allow you to schedule appointments through their system.

For children doctors and specialists who specialize in ADHD can identify the condition based on discussions of the symptoms in depth with teachers and parents as well as observing the child teenager in various settings as well as interviewing family members and conducting an evaluation of learning disabilities. They also look over school documents and questionnaires completed by teachers and caregivers. To be diagnosed an adult adhd diagnosis criteria or adolescent must present at least five of the following symptoms:

A thorough medical history is essential in order to diagnose ADHD. Since adults typically have weak or spotty memories of childhood, clinicians may seek out information from independent sources, such as spouses or other family members. They should also search for other possible causes, including the development disorder, brain injury or other health issues that could be causing symptoms reminiscent of ADHD.

In the initial consultation, the professional will evaluate how do I get a adhd diagnosis the patient manages ADHD symptoms and the impact these symptoms have on their daily lives. They should also discuss the history of any prior ADHD evaluations and treatment. It's also helpful to recognize other conditions that exhibit similar symptoms to ADHD, such as mood disorders and anxiety. In addition to conducting an assessment of an individual and their mental health condition, a professional should also be listening to the person in a respectful manner and without judgment. This is particularly important when the patient has an history of depression or substance abuse.