How to Get Tested For ADHD
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD can be overwhelming. The process often involves doctors, specialists and tests. It can also be costly, and even harder to obtain if your doctor will not refer you.
Adults must show six signs that started in the early years of their lives (technically, before 12 years of age) to qualify for a diagnosis. The symptoms can get into the way of daily functioning.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a mental disorder that makes people feel anxious, irritable and unable to focus. The symptoms must be present for a period of time and can significantly affect school, work and social life.
A diagnosis of ADHD means that you or your child struggle with these symptoms more than others. It means that your child or you have not been lazy or unmotivated, but their behavior is due the biological causes. A doctor can diagnose the cause by studying your or your child’s medical history, family history and conducting a physical examination. They can also conduct interviews with other caregivers. This can include teachers, religious leaders, scouts and coaches.
Your child or you need to be examined by a psychiatrist psychologist or therapist who has had experience with ADHD. They'll need to be aware of how the disorder affects adults and children, and determine if your child's symptoms stem from other factors, such as an eating disorder, depression or anxiety.
You can find ADHD specialists online or at local clinics. Many doctors, therapists, and other professionals who you trust will refer you to an ADHD specialist. Check the credentials of the specialist and ensure that they are able to accept your health insurance or the insurance of your child.
During the interview, the psychologist or therapist will want to know about your symptoms, or those of your child and how they impact your home and school. They will ask you how long you have had symptoms, when they occur, and how severe they are. They will also ask if your symptoms are consistent in different situations.
The most recent edition of the psychiatric manual the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, has changed the way it describes subtypes of ADHD. The prior classification was based on behavioral symptoms, but the most recent model takes a broader approach to diagnosis and includes non-behavioral signs such as emotional dysregulation and difficulties with sleep patterns. People often move from one presentation to another, for example from a hyperactive-impulsive pattern in preschool to a primarily inattentive presentation during adolescence and into adulthood.
Symptoms
A health professional will look at the person's past physical and mental health and the way they behaved in different situations to determine if they suffer from ADHD. They might also inquire about the child's education and behavior during the early years of their life. They'll also rule out other things that can cause similar symptoms, like sleep disorders, depression or anxiety, as well as certain physical ailments like thyroid issues.
The American Psychiatric Association has guidelines that health professionals follow to diagnose. In particular, they'll look for signs of hyperactivity or inattention and impulsive symptoms that have been present for at least six months. The symptoms must be present in at least two environments and affect the workplace, educational or social functioning. The symptoms have to be more severe than normal and can't be better explained by another mental health condition.
For teens and children, the health care provider might talk to teachers as well as religious or scout leaders, coaches, family members, caregivers, and friends who spend time with them to get an accurate picture of their behaviors. They may ask the children to fill out questionnaires, or even interview them. Adults are usually questioned by their health care providers about their relationships, work performance, and other activities. They might also ask permission to review the records of their previous employment and educational history.
Inattentive symptoms of ADHD include difficulty paying attention, focusing on the present or appearing distracted. Teens and children suffering from this disorder might skip appointments or forget important dates, or make a few blunders. They are also often unorganized and have trouble keeping the things they need to keep track of. Hyperactivity and impulsivity can be seen more in teens and children, however they are also seen in adults. They might be unable to sit still in conversation or games, or they might blurt out answers prior to the end of the question.
People who have both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms of ADHD are diagnosed with mixed ADHD. Adults suffering from this disorder tend to have poor academic performance, work-related problems and strained relationships. These problems have many causes, but they are often genetic and are related to exposure to environmental toxins in pregnancy and in the birth.
Diagnosis
Consult your doctor if you believe that you might have ADHD. A regular doctor (you might hear them referred to as a primary care physician) or a mental health professional who has worked with adults with ADHD can assist you in determining whether your symptoms match the requirements for this disorder. They will ask you about how long you've had symptoms and how they impact your daily life.
Your medical history will be asked and any issues that may be related to ADHD. They may suggest an examination to rule out any physical causes of your symptoms, including seizures or thyroid problems. They may also inquire about your family and professional life. They might also want to talk to your parents, teachers, or any other person who knows you well to find out more information about your childhood and how your symptoms started.
For kids and teens, to be diagnosed with ADHD the person must exhibit at least five of these symptoms: Inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity significantly interferes with their academic performance and social interaction. The symptoms have been evident for at minimum six months and are not more easily explained by another mental health issue. To be diagnosed with ADHD in older children and adults they must prove that the symptoms are present in at least two different settings and are causing dysfunction. The symptoms must also begin before the age of 12 and not improved over time.
Certain non-genetic causes could increase the chance of developing ADHD. Some of them include being born prematurely, smoking or drinking alcohol during pregnancy, or experiencing trauma or stress as a child. If not treated, ADHD can cause learning disabilities in adults, which could make them less likely to be successful in school and in the work place. Many people who suffer from ADHD have trouble keeping the track of their tasks and making smart decisions. Other symptoms include difficulty with organization and finishing tasks as well as memory issues. ADHD can be accompanied by depression or other mood disorders. This can make the issues with attention worse.
Treatment
ADHD can be treated in a variety of ways. Therapy, medication and lifestyle modifications are the most common treatment options for children and adults with ADHD. Certain people suffering from ADHD may also benefit from techniques for modifying behavior like coaching and training. adhd testing adults are often included in ADHD medications to improve concentration and attention. The use of stimulants can have serious side effects, particularly for children and teens. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully when giving your child or teen ADHD medication. Keep medications out of reach and in a secure location, such as an unlocked cabinet or a medicine chest. It is important to inform your child or teenager about the possible risks of taking ADHD medications.
For teens and children with ADHD, therapy can help with symptoms and teach coping skills. Treatment for ADHD in teenagers and children often involves family therapy, group support or individual therapy with a mental health professional. Therapy can help kids and teens learn new skills, attitudes and ways to interact with other people. Therapy can give parents the tools they need to better understand and support their child's struggles.
It is essential to find the right professional to test you or your child for ADHD. Ask trusted experts, family members, and even friends for recommendations. Find a doctor who is experienced in evaluating ADHD adults and can identify the different types of ADHD. Find out if the expert has a shared-care contract with your GP which can make it easier for you to access medications.
If you are evaluating someone for ADHD the healthcare professional will typically begin with a physical examination and review the patient's medical history. They'll also look for other conditions that could be associated with similar symptoms, such as depression and anxiety. The healthcare professional will interview the patient and their family to find out more about the symptoms and how they impact their lives. They may also request work or school records to determine if symptoms have been present since childhood. Additional psychological, neuropsychological and testing for learning disabilities may be required.