Getting Diagnosed With ADHD
Many people don't realize they have ADHD until adulthood. Diagnosis can be difficult. It could involve asking questions about childhood behavior and taking a psychological test.
To make a diagnosis, the mental health professional will evaluate a person's current symptoms and their history, including past illnesses and relationships. The doctor will talk to teachers and parents and ask the patient to evaluate their symptoms on an appropriate scale.
Diagnosis
You will need to consult an expert in health care who is an expert in ADHD to receive a diagnosis. You can find one through your health insurance, by asking for a referral from a doctor or counselor, or by calling an organization such as Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD).
The first step is to conduct a thorough interview with your health care professional. You might also be asked to complete the scale of behavior ratings or symptom checklist. In addition psychological tests can help determine if your symptoms may be related to ADHD. Some doctors utilize brain imaging to assess brain activity.
Your doctor must be aware that you have ADHD symptoms for at least six months. You will also need to have symptoms in more than one place like at home and at work. You or your child must have symptomatic behavior in childhood, usually before age 12, to be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger complicated emotions. For example, some people feel a sense of relief as they realize that they have a clear explanation of the reasons why their lives are difficult. Some people may regret missing opportunities or relationships that they feel could have been avoided had they received treatment earlier for their ADHD symptoms.
A therapist can aid you in resolving these emotions. They can help you learn how to manage your symptoms and teach you strategies that will help you to focus, stay organized, and follow through on commitments. Often, a mental health therapist will recommend a combination of treatments, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Stress and medical conditions can trigger problems with attention. The people who suffer from ADHD often have other disorders such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. People who suffer from anxiety or depression have trouble staying focused and can forget things such as paying bills or making appointments. Your doctor can check for other conditions and will probably order blood or urine tests to determine if there are any medical issues.
Medication
Many kids and teens suffering from ADHD get better control of their symptoms by taking medication. There are many different types of medication that work differently on different people. It can take a while to find the one that is right for you and the most effective dosage for you or your child.
Consult your family physician If you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. Health professionals who specialize in mental illness, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, are also trained to diagnose ADHD. You can learn more about finding these specialists on the National Institute of Mental Health website.
The health care provider will conduct an interview in a clinical setting or behavior rating scales or symptom checklists, when reviewing a patient to determine if they meet the diagnostic criteria. They will also examine the person's medical history and inquire about the person's mood and their current and previous health conditions. The health professional might also request that the patient talk to their parents, partner, colleagues and close family friends. The goal is to find out more about the person's issues at school, work or in relationships. The health care provider may also want to review any previous psychological, medical or imaging studies.
The most commonly used drug to treat ADHD is stimulants. This includes children and adults. They can improve concentration and control of impulses. They can reduce anxiety, depression and other signs of ADHD. They can cause side effects, including stomach upset as well as a rapid heart rate. They can also lead to weight loss, changes in appetite and sleep problems.
They include atomoxetine (ATOMOXETINE) as well as bupropion (BRUPPROPION) and dextroamphetamine (DEXAMPHETAMIN). They can prescribe the drugs atomoxetine (ATOMOXETINE) as well as bupropion (BRUPPROPION) and dextroamphetamine (DEXAMPHETAMIN). Sometimes, health professionals may try a variety of drugs or dosages in order to find the best one for an adult or teen with ADHD.
Treatment for ADHD is most effective when it's a team effort. Your child or you should work with teachers and school staff to promote positive reinforcement, keep in close communication and be flexible and patient. A support group for adults with ADHD is also beneficial. Suggested Reading , similar to cognitive behavioral therapy, is a great way to learn new skills and strategies to manage ADHD symptoms.
Counseling
Psychotherapy can be as effective as medication when it comes to treating ADHD symptoms in adults. People with ADHD often struggle with managing their responsibilities as they grow older, and their existing coping mechanisms could be inadequate to handle increasing demands and new challenges. This is especially true during major transitions such as college or job changes, when those with ADHD might be required to perform more complicated tasks that require self-regulation and executive function.
In the course of psychotherapy, individuals learn to be aware of the ways in which their thoughts and emotions influence their behavior. They also practice self-management techniques like mindfulness meditation and relaxation exercises to manage anxiety and improve attention control. They also practice coping skills that include time management and strategies for organizing to manage schoolwork, responsibilities and relationships.
It's crucial that those with ADHD choose a therapist that they feel comfortable with who understands their needs and takes the time to know them. The therapist will go over a patient's medical history and mental health records. They might request permission to speak with family members, colleagues and friends to gain more insight into the impact of ADHD on the person's daily routine and relationships with others.
A therapist might also suggest a treatment plan that includes an amalgamation of medication and counseling. The objectives of a plan of treatment will depend on the individual's requirements, but could include improving school and work performance and communication at home and in the workplace or increasing independence. Counseling can assist those who are struggling to manage their issues emotionally. This could include working through loss and trauma.
Parents should be able to attend therapy sessions. Many teenagers and children have been successfully treated using medication by themselves. During therapy, an expert in mental health can help parents learn new techniques, attitudes and ways of communicating with their child or teenager to better manage the primary ADHD symptoms. They can also instruct parents on stress management techniques and offer support groups to families with children who suffer from ADHD.
Support
There are a myriad of sources of support for individuals and families who suffer from ADHD. The most important thing is to seek medical advice and assistance from a medical professional. There are many treatment options including cognitive behavioral therapy including individual and family counseling as well as life coaching, nutritional supplements and physical therapies like massage or yoga. There are many websites and books with tips on how to deal with ADHD.
Parents may require special assistance to handle the frustrations, angers and accusations that children with ADHD can generate. Mental health professionals are able to educate parents on the disorder and teach them new behaviors, skills and ways of relating to their children. This can include teaching children in school how to manage symptoms in the classroom and setting clear rules and expectations. Siblings can benefit from specialized support as well. They feel neglected when parents' attention is on their siblings. This can cause resentment or jealousy. These negative feelings can be reduced by informing siblings about ADHD and teaching them how to deal with their own behavior.
Friends, family, teachers and school personnel can all offer support and help to those diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms of the disorder can cause disruptive behavior in class or at work, and can affect social interactions. People suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to maintain healthy sleeping habits, and this can contribute to problems with memory and concentration. ADHD patients are more likely to be suffering from other health issues, such as depression or an anxiety disorder that should also be treated.
There are numerous national and local organizations that provide in-person support groups for adults with ADHD. These groups, like CHADD and ADDitude offer advocacy, education and networking opportunities for people with ADHD and their families. Some of these organizations have an inventory of healthcare professionals who specialize in treating the disorder. There are also a variety of support groups on the internet, such as those run by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.