How To Explain ADHD Diagnose To A Five-Year-Old
ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD, you should consult a specialist. The specialist will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also review your medical background.
They will also examine the way you feel in various situations, such as at school, at home and in social settings. They will also look at the length of time you've had these symptoms.
Symptoms
Consult your child's physician should you suspect that he or she may have ADHD. They can check for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to complete questionnaires, and they might ask them to perform certain tests. They can also perform physical examinations, including eye and ear tests. They can also utilize the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a noninvasive scan that measures beta and theta brain waves which are typically more frequent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must be present before the child reached the age of 12. It should cause significant impairment in two important settings, such as at school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines that are used by doctors to diagnose adults contain a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration, and the level of impairment they cause.
Parents may not notice some of the more common ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behavior. Stress mental health issues and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People with ADHD can also have problems with relationships and self-esteem which can cause depression. Sleep problems can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol and take drugs, which are detrimental to their health. The disorder can cause problems with finances or even bankruptcies due the impulse-control issues. It is essential for children to get a proper diagnosis as it will aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a happier and more productive life.
how to get an adult adhd diagnosis
If you or a loved one has struggled to stay organized, have trouble paying attention in class, have difficulty adhering to instructions at work, suffer from social issues, or other issues that could be caused by ADHD it is essential to consult a doctor for an evaluation. A mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist could assist in diagnosing ADHD. Some primary care professionals have training in diagnosing ADHD.
The evaluation process consists of an extended interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care professional will review the person's medical and mental history as well as family history to identify other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid diseases and head injuries as well as some medications can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health issues like mood disorders and anxiety can also occur in conjunction with ADHD.
A person with ADHD can have either primarily inattention symptoms or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, or both, but the symptoms must be present before age 12 and must continue for at least 6 months. Along with a thorough physical exam, the doctor will ask about the person's life at home and at school, including how often the person misses classes or fails to complete homework. The clinician may want to speak with other people in the person's life, such as teachers and coaches, and may request that the person bring journals.
The person being evaluated should be able and willing to talk about their thoughts with the examiner. They should not be afraid to be critiqued or criticized. This will enhance the accuracy of the assessment and increase the chance that a diagnosis will be accurate.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a great relief for your child or yourself. It can help you understand that it's not laziness, or a lack in intelligence, that's hindering your progress. It also teaches you the steps to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD often suffer from other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as chronic headaches or sleep disorders can trigger symptoms that appear similar to ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, an audiologist or mental health professional will conduct a thorough examination of the person and their family. They will ask about the child's life as well as their education and how the family interacts. They will also use ADHD symptoms checklists and standard rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests to test executive function, visual and spatial abilities (related to space), and reasoning abilities.
Exercise and diet can help reduce symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. They should also adhere to a healthy diet and make sure to schedule meals and keep healthy snacks on hand so they don't skip meals.
Ask your doctor, therapist or other professionals you trust for recommendations. Teachers are a good example. You can also ask a local university-based hospital or medical school to get the names of qualified specialists or call your insurance company to obtain a list of those who are licensed to assess adults. It is crucial to find a specialist with experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychiatry or psychology.
Medication
The use of ADHD medication can help those with the disorder better manage their symptoms, as well as improve their performance at school, work at home, and in social settings. However, stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD may also cause several adverse effects, including trouble sleeping, appetite changes, and weight loss. They should not be used in conjunction with other medications such as those for depression, high blood pressure, and heart issues. Health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents receive an entire physical examination including hearing and eye tests, before beginning medication. Health care professionals should discuss with patients about the advantages and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle, and previous medical issues.
To establish an accurate diagnosis, the doctor must carefully examine the patient to determine if the symptoms persist and significantly affect the person's functioning in a variety of settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The clinician will review the symptoms to determine the severity and also to rule out any other disorders that could trigger them. People suffering from a learning disorder often show symptoms that resemble those of ADHD. An individual with anxiety disorder might be misdiagnosed. The clinician will also consider whether the patient has a medical condition like a thyroid disorder, that might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest a series of tests, including brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how symptoms are impacting the patient. He may also suggest an entire medical examination, as well as lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect you have ADHD, talk to your family doctor. They can recommend professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also assist you in determining the need for medication by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily life of your child or you. They can also explain alternative treatment options like behavior therapy.
If your family physician cannot conduct a thorough analysis of your symptoms, online counselors who are specialists in telemedicine are readily available. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed providers who can help manage a range of mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions are conducted through audio or video chat and are confidential.
When choosing an online counselor it is crucial to feel at ease and trust with them. Be sure to inquire about their training and experience working with adults with ADHD and ensure that they are able to answer your questions in detail. If they are reluctant to share their knowledge this could be an indicator that they are unqualified or unwilling to work with adults with ADHD.
Finding an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult however it's an essential step toward managing your symptoms and gaining control over your life. It can help you realize that your issues with organization and focus aren't the result of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also reassuring to know that you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lives.
People with ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric issues such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to deal with ADHD and other disorders.