Getting Diagnosed With ADHD
Many people do not know they have ADHD until later in their lives. The diagnosis can be difficult. It could mean asking about childhood behavior as well as taking a psychological test.
A psychiatrist will evaluate the person's symptoms and their history, including past illnesses and relationships. The clinician will interview parents and teachers and ask the patient to assess their symptoms using an appropriate scale.
Diagnosis
You'll need to speak with a health professional who is an expert in ADHD to get an 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 will be to conduct a thorough interview with your health care provider. More may be asked to complete an inventory of symptoms or a behavior rating system. Psychological tests can aid in determining if your symptoms are linked to ADHD. Some doctors also employ brain imaging to measure activity in your brain.
Your doctor will want to know if you've experienced ADHD symptoms for at least six months. You must also have symptoms in multiple settings, such as both at home and 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 cause complex emotions. Some people are relieved that they have a reason behind their difficulties. Some people might regret missing opportunities or issues with relationships which they believe could have been avoided had they sought treatment earlier for their ADHD symptoms.
A therapist can assist you in sorting out these emotions. More can help you learn to manage your symptoms and provide strategies to assist you in staying organized, and keep your commitments. A mental health therapist may suggest a combination of treatments like psychotherapy or medication, in addition to lifestyle changes.
There are many things that can cause attention problems like stress and medical conditions. People with ADHD frequently suffer from other disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Those with depression or anxiety are often unable to concentrate and may fail to complete simple tasks like paying bills or keeping appointments. Your doctor can examine for other issues and may recommend urine or blood tests to determine if there are any medical issues.
Medication
Many teens and children with ADHD have better control over their symptoms through medication. Multiple types of medications are available and can be used for different individuals. It can be a challenge to determine the right medication and dosage for your child or yourself.
Consult your family physician if you suspect that you or your child is suffering from ADHD. Health professionals who specialize in mental illness, such as psychologists and psychiatrists are also trained to diagnose ADHD. On the National Institute of Mental Health's website, you can find out the best places to find these specialists.
The health care provider will conduct a clinical interview, behavior rating scales, or symptom checklists, when reviewing a patient to determine if they meet the diagnostic criteria. They will also review the medical history of the patient and inquire about the person's mood and current and past health conditions. The health professional might also request to speak with the person's parents, partner or close friends, as well as coworkers and colleagues. The goal is to learn more about the individual's struggles at work, school, or in relationships. The health professional may also be interested in examining any previous medical or psychological tests or imaging studies.
Stimulants are among the most popular drugs used to treat ADHD in children and adults. They can help improve concentration and control of impulses. They can reduce depression, anxiety and other symptoms of ADHD. Side effects include stomach upset and a rapid pulse rate. They can also cause weight loss as well as changes in appetite and sleep problems.
If stimulants aren't effective or have negative side effects, medical doctors may prescribe non-stimulant medications that act on chemical messengers in the brain. These include atomoxetine, bupropion and dextroamphetamine. Sometimes, health care providers may try a variety of medication or dosages to determine which one is the best for an adult or teen with ADHD.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is to work in a team. Your child or you can collaborate with teachers and staff to encourage positive reinforcement. Stay in close communication, be patient and flexible. A support group for adults who suffer from ADHD is also helpful. Counseling, like cognitive behavioral therapy is a great method to learn new skills and strategies to manage ADHD symptoms.
Counseling
Psychotherapy is as effective as medication in treating ADHD symptoms in adults. People with ADHD are often struggling with managing their responsibilities as they age and the coping mechanisms they have in place may become insufficient to deal with the new demands. This is especially relevant during major transitions such as college or job changes, when those with ADHD may be required to handle more complex tasks that require executive function and self-regulation.
In psychotherapy, individuals learn how their thoughts and feelings influence their behavior. They also practice self-management techniques like mindfulness meditation and relaxation exercises to help control anxiety and improve attention control. They also learn coping strategies, such as time management and strategies for organizing to manage schoolwork, responsibilities and relationships.
It is crucial that people suffering from ADHD find a therapist they feel comfortable with, who understands them and takes the time to know them. The therapist will look over the medical history of the patient and the psychiatric records. They may also ask for permission to speak to family members, coworkers and friends to gain more insight into the effects of ADHD on the person's daily activities and relationships with others.
A therapist may also suggest a treatment that incorporates counseling and medication. The goals of a plan of treatment are based on the needs of the individual, but could include improving school and work performance and communication at home and at work or increasing independence. For those who struggle with the emotional consequences of their ailments, therapy might include working through loss and trauma.
Many kids and teens have been successfully treated with medication alone However, it's crucial for parents to participate in therapy sessions too. During therapy, a mental health professional can teach parents new attitudes, skills and ways of interacting with their child or teenager to better manage core ADHD symptoms. They can also help parents learn techniques for managing stress and offer support groups to families with children who suffer from ADHD.
Support
There are a variety of resources for support available for families and those suffering from ADHD. It is crucial to seek medical help and advice from a professional. There are many treatments available which include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as well as individual and family counseling (Life Coaching), nutritional supplements, and physical therapies such as yoga or massage. There are also many books and websites with advice on how to deal with ADHD.
Parents may require specialized help to manage the frustration, anger and blame that are produced by children with ADHD. Mental health professionals can educate parents on the disorder and help them develop new skills, attitudes and ways of relating to their children. For children who are in school, this can include teaching them to cope with their issues in the classroom and setting clear guidelines and expectations for behavior. Siblings can benefit from specialized help as well. They feel unimportant when their parents' attention is focused on their children. This can result in resentment and jealousy. Informing siblings about ADHD and teaching them how to deal with their own behavior may reduce these negative feelings.
Friends, family, teachers and school personnel are all able to offer support and help to those diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms of the disorder can cause disruption in classes or at work, and can hinder social relationships. People suffering from ADHD may have difficulty to maintain healthy sleeping habits and this may lead to issues with concentration and memory. People who suffer from ADHD are also more likely to have other health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, and these need to be treated as well.
There are many local and national organizations that offer support groups in person for adults suffering from ADHD. These groups, such as CHADD and ADDitude offer advocacy, education, and networking opportunities for people with ADHD and their families. Some of these groups also have a directory of health professionals who specialize in treating the disorder. There are also a variety of online support groups like those operated by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.