How To Explain ADHD Diagnose To A Five-Year-Old
ADHD DiagnosisIf you suspect you have ADHD and are concerned, you should speak to a specialist. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they can have on your life. They will also go over your medical history.
They will also look at how you feel in different situations, like at school, at home and in social settings. They will also determine the length of time you've had these symptoms for.
Symptoms
If you suspect your child may have ADHD, talk to their doctor. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to fill out an assessment form and may ask them to do some tests. They can also conduct a physical examination, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also use the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves that are more frequent in children with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the signs have been present for a long time before the child reached age 12. It should cause significant impairment in two primary situations, such as school and work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines utilized by doctors in diagnosing adults contain a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration, and the degree of impairment they cause.
Children often struggle to discern the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, and parents may overlook some of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. Stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments may trigger similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD can also have problems with relationships and self-esteem, which can lead to depression. They are often unable to get good quality sleep, and a lack of sleep can make the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely to drink and use drugs, which can cause serious harm to their health. The impulsiveness that is associated with the disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It is essential that children receive a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and live an enjoyable, productive life.
Diagnosis
It is essential to speak with an expert if you or someone in your family suffers from issues with social interaction, is having trouble organizing their life, has trouble paying attention in school, struggles with following instructions at work or any other signs that may be due to ADHD. A mental health professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists can help make the diagnosis. Some primary care providers also have training in diagnosing ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extensive interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care professional will review the person's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to look for other conditions that could be causing the symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, head injuries and certain medications can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health problems, such as mood disorders and anxiety may also be present 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. In addition to a thorough physical exam, the doctor will ask about the person's life at home and at school, including the frequency at which the person is absent from class or fails to finish homework. The clinician might also speak with other people in the patient's life, including teachers and coaches and may ask that the person bring a journal.
The person being assessed should be able and willing to openly talk about their opinions with the examiner. They shouldn't be afraid of being judged or criticized. This will increase the accuracy of the evaluation and increase the chances that a diagnosis will be accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a great relief. It will help you understand that it's not just laziness or insanity standing in the way of success. It also gives you steps to take to control your symptoms. But the diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD often have other mental health problems such as anxiety or depression. Other conditions like sleep disorders or chronic headaches can trigger symptoms that appear similar to ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough exam of the patient and their family. They will review the person's history going back to childhood, ask about the person's education and how family members interact with each with each. They will also utilize standardized rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests that test executive function, visual and spatial skills (related to spatial space) and reasoning skills.
Many people with ADHD find that diet and exercise can aid in reducing their symptoms. They should stay away from alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. They should also adhere to a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks readily available so that they don't have to miss meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or other professionals you trust for suggestions. A teacher is an excellent example. You can also contact your insurance company to find out who is certified to assess adults, or visit the nearest medical hospital or school. It is crucial to find a specialist with expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
Treatments for ADHD can help those suffering from the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their performance at home, school, work, and in social situations. Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also cause side effects such as problems sleeping and eating, and weight loss. They should not be combined with certain other drugs for depression, such as those used to treat, high blood pressure, and heart problems. Health professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo an extensive physical exam that includes hearing and eye tests prior to starting medication. Health professionals should speak 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 multiple 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 their severity and also to rule out any other conditions that could cause them. For instance, those with a learning impairment often have symptoms reminiscent of ADHD and a person suffering from an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly diagnosed with ADHD. The physician will also determine if the patient has any medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician might suggest a battery of tests, including brain imaging or cognitive testing, to assess how the symptoms are impacting the patient. He may also suggest an extensive medical evaluation along with lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect ADHD, talk to your family doctor. They can refer you to experts who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also assist you in determining whether medication is needed by discussing how the symptoms impact the daily lives of your child or you. They can read more also explain alternatives to treatment, such as behavior therapy.
If your family doctor cannot conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms, online counselors who specialize in telemedicine can be found. Amwell, for example, connects patients to licensed professionals who can treat a variety of mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video and audio chat, and are confidential and secure.
When selecting an online counselor, it is important to feel secure and confident with them. Be sure to inquire about their training and experience working with adults with ADHD, and make sure they can answer your questions in detail. If they refuse to do so, this could be a sign they're not able or willing to work as a professional with adults suffering from ADHD.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult, but it's a vital step in managing your symptoms and gaining control over your life. It can help you understand that the difficulties you have with focus and organization are not a sign of inattention or lack of intelligence. It's also comforting to know you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to keep their jobs, relationships, and a healthy lifestyle.
It is common for people with ADHD to suffer from other psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can teach you how to manage ADHD and other conditions.