ADHD Screening Test - The First Step to Diagnosing ADHD
If you suspect that you or your child has ADHD the first step is to set an appointment for a diagnosis. Getting an accurate diagnosis is the only way to fully understand and treat the condition.
During the evaluation the doctor will ask you questions about the way your health has improved from your childhood. They might also employ scales for assessing behavior and symptoms as well as checklists.
Signs and symptoms
The first step in diagnosing ADHD is to gather as much information about the person as you can. This could involve a physical examination as well as obtaining medical and school records, or speaking with close family members, friends or teachers. It is also essential to rule out any other conditions which may trigger symptoms that resemble ADHD like thyroid issues, seizures and some kinds of anxiety disorders.
The doctor may also want to know about how the issues have affected the patient's life and relationships. This may include asking questions like whether they struggle to finish tasks or become easily distracted, if they regularly lose things, have difficulty with time management or are constantly being late for work or social occasions. The doctor might ask if the symptoms began before the age of 12.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are trained to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. They use the established criteria that are standardized as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) to determine if the symptoms meet the diagnostic criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. The DSM-5 defines the main categories of ADHD as inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD the person must show at least six or more symptoms within one of the categories for at least six months.
It is crucial to understand that a diagnosis of ADHD is not a condemnation. Many people suffering from ADHD experience mild symptoms. They are able to manage their symptoms by using therapies, medication, and a healthy lifestyle.
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is a stimulant. It is available in a variety of forms such as tablets and liquids. A doctor can prescribe the right medication and dosage for the patient. They can also offer tips on healthy lifestyles which can improve the symptoms of ADHD such as regular exercise and getting enough sleep. In some cases, nonstimulant medication like antidepressants may be used to treat ADHD.
Diagnosis
An ADHD screening test is the first step in making an accurate diagnosis of the disorder. The best method to determine whether you suffer from ADHD is to arrange an evaluation with a clinician. A psychiatrist, psychologist, psychotherapist or neurologist are all able to perform an ADHD assessment.
Before making a diagnosis your mental health professional will study the American Psychiatric Society's clinical guidelines for the disorder found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They will talk to you or your child about symptoms that have remained for at minimum six months. They will also examine your child's or your own family medical and psychiatric histories.
The person being evaluated may be asked to provide input from outside sources like spouses or other family members regarding their symptoms. This can help the mental health professional build a complete picture of the person's behavior as well as their experience with ADHD. The doctor will also interview the patient and use standardized ADHD behavior rating scales.
It is crucial for a mental health professional to be aware that other disorders may be similar to ADHD symptoms. Therefore, they need to exclude other conditions such as thyroid problems and seizures before determining if someone has ADHD.
In some cases, a mental health professional will recommend a physical exam. This is important for adults as certain medical conditions can produce the similar symptoms as ADHD.
After the mental health specialist has established the diagnosis they will explain the reasons why it is most likely caused by neurological issues like an underactive or overactive hypothalamus or genetic predisposition, as well as environmental factors like poor diet, alcohol abuse and stress.
The mental health professional then talks about treatment options. The best combination of treatments can help people manage their ADHD symptoms and lead an active and fulfilling life. Some people can get accommodations at their workplaces or schools, for example, the ability to take tests privately or have an extended break during class. This can make life easier.
Treatment
Recognizing ADHD symptoms can be the first step towards controlling them. They can cause serious problems at work, school or at home. Therapy and medication are both a part of the treatment. Therapy can help someone develop better time management techniques and devise methods to improve their organizational skills by using daily planners or lists. A therapist can also teach emotional regulation and social skills. Counseling can also help children suffering from coexisting conditions such as depression or anxiety.
The health care professional conducting the examination may ask a series of questions and then conduct a psychological or neuropsychological exam. These tests assess the performance of an individual with those who are similar in age. These tests can tell the severity of a person's condition, whether they suffer from an intellectual disorder or other disorder that could be co-existent or have a similar appearance to ADHD. The specialist may ask the person questions and also interview other adults, such as teachers or babysitters, to get a full picture of the person's 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 specialist might also examine old school records to determine if a person was a victim of problems as a child. Adults often have a hard time remembering their problems from their childhood, but according to current guidelines for diagnosing, the disorder can't be diagnosed if symptoms did not occur frequently in more than one environment prior to age 12.
Before starting any treatment, a doctor may check to see if there are any medical conditions that could be causing ADHD symptoms or causing them to worsen. Certain of these conditions can cause seizures or thyroid issues that may have symptoms that are similar to ADHD. A medical examination may also include a vision or hearing test. test for adhd online may also speak with the patient's parents or other relatives, and talk about the issues they face at school or at work.
Medication
ADHD is most commonly treated with stimulants, such as methylphenidate and amphetamine. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain which control attention and movements. When stimulants are prescribed, research has shown that they reduce the risk of kids with ADHD taking drugs and developing other issues. However, it is crucial to be aware of the potential adverse effects, which could include a decreased appetite, trouble sleeping and heart or lung issues in some children.
Doctors may also prescribe non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine and Guanfacine. They are slower to work than stimulants and are safer for those with certain health problems or cannot take stimulants due to unpleasant adverse effects, like anxiety and ringing in the ear, or changes in vision or lung and heart function. They may also aid in treating disorders that cause tics, 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 use and can interact with stimulants.
It has been shown that other medications, including those used to treat high-blood pressure, can also improve ADHD symptoms. They have not been studied as thoroughly as stimulants.
For adults, a combination of medication, behavior therapy and skills training is often the most effective treatment. Adults who receive this type of treatment report feeling more in control of their symptoms and able manage these.
If you suspect you or someone you know suffers from symptoms of ADHD consider asking your physician or mental health professional for an appointment with a specialist. You can also contact a university hospital or medical school, or graduate program to get recommendations. Or you can check out the list of specialists that are covered by your insurance plan.
If you are an adult, you may also try a self-assessment questionnaire to determine if you have ADHD. The American College of Psychiatrists Adult ADHD Self Report Scale is a simple checklist that can be used to determine if you suffer from ADHD symptoms.