Who Diagnoses ADHD?
The licensed professionals who diagnose ADHD include physicians (particularly psychiatrists, family physicians and neurologists) psychologists, psychologists, and licensed counselors and therapists. Nurse practitioners and social workers are also able to conduct initial assessments and provide therapy, but they cannot prescribe medication.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD have to show more than five signs, that can cause problems at school or at work and cannot be explained by other mental disorders or mood disorders.
Medical Doctor
To make a correct diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough assessment. This should be performed by an experienced medical doctor or mental health professional experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Many healthcare professionals can perform an ADHD assessment, such as nurses, family physicians, a psychiatrist or neurologist and master level counselors with degrees in psychology or counseling. However, the most effective option for diagnosing ADHD is a psychiatrist, specifically one with experience treating patients suffering from ADHD.
The doctor or mental health professional will evaluate the patient and analyze the patient's symptoms, history and how those symptoms affect the patient's life. The evaluator compares the behavior of the patient to what is normal for their age. The evaluator will also determine whether the symptoms are more easily explained by another illness, such as depression or a physical illness.
For children the evaluator will talk to parents teachers, parents, and other caregivers who interact with the child, like coaches or day care providers. The evaluator also reviews the child's educational and developmental history. To be diagnosed with ADHD the child must exhibit at least six of the symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity. The symptoms must be present in at least two different settings and cause problems in school, home, work and social situations.
Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD undergo similar interviews with their family members and colleagues and are also required to provide a full medical history and mental health. They will be asked about how the symptoms have affected them and whether they have experienced difficulties with their relationships, school or work. The mental health professional will also assess the person's mood, medical history and other issues like alcohol or drug use.
In certain situations one might think that their primary or general physician is the best person to evaluate them for ADHD because they are familiar with his or her medical background. This is not always an ideal choice. People should consider whether they are comfortable speaking to their doctor about this specific problem and if they feel confident that the PCP can identify and eliminate any medical conditions that might be similar to the symptoms of ADHD.
Psychiatrist
In certain instances, those with ADHD may be able be diagnosed by their primary health care provider. These doctors are usually capable of assessing the situation and determine if medication is required and send patients to specialists who can assist in the treatment. Other professionals that can diagnose ADHD include psychologists, psychiatrists and physician's assistants. In some instances, a neurologist will be required to examine the central nervous system and the brain.
A psychiatric examination includes interviews with the patient, their parents, and caregivers. It also includes assessing the student's performance, as well as medical and family histories and completing mental health questionnaires and tests. In addition, a psychiatric specialist can recommend medical testing to rule out any other illnesses or conditions that could trigger symptoms of ADHD, such as low birth weight, complications during the delivery and environmental toxins in the womb, or early exposure to drugs and alcohol.
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, their symptoms must manifest in at least two different settings such as at home, work and social activities. They must also be limiting the person's performance and not be attributed to other mental disorders or mood disorders like Bipolar Disorder or depression. If ADHD symptoms impact the person's work performance, they may be qualified for reasonable accommodations.
A psychologist or counselor who has a master's in counseling may be able to assist those suffering from ADHD. These professionals can assist people to understand their symptoms and learn to deal with these symptoms. They can also offer emotional assistance and encourage. They can also offer emotional support and encouragement.
It is essential to choose a healthcare professional who is not judgmental, and who is able to speak freely with the patient. It's also important to consider the level of experience and knowledge that the healthcare professional is. If they view ADHD as a minor issue or have no knowledge of it, the patient might require another doctor.
Psychologist
While they have advanced degrees and are addressed as doctors, psychologists specialize in mental health issues such as ADHD. They can offer expert assessments and therapy, however, they are not able to prescribe medication. They may ask to interview others, like teachers and parents to get a clearer understanding of the person's life. They can also ask questions about the person's present behavior. They will determine if symptoms have been present since childhood, and if not it is if they have only been present for the last six months.
Anyone who suspects that they might have ADHD should talk with their primary care physician. While they may not be able to identify the problem, they can help make referrals to specialists who can. People should select professionals with whom they feel secure and at ease. They should stay clear of specialists who are judgmental or dismiss their concerns, as they won't provide the necessary care.
Some healthcare providers such as family doctors and psychiatrists, can evaluate and treat adults with ADHD. However, it is important to find out which practitioners have the most experience with the disorder prior to scheduling an appointment. Inform your doctor of the medications you are taking, including sedatives and stimulating drugs. These medications could cause dangerous side effects if they interact.
A diagnosis of ADHD may bring about a range emotions, such as relief and confusion. People who receive a diagnosis should seek out additional support from other members of their treatment team, for example, educational specialists, speech and language therapists, and behavioral therapists.
People suffering from ADHD are more likely to suffer from co-occurring disorders, like bipolar disorder or depression. BD and ADHD have many similar symptoms, so it's important to distinguish them during evaluation. For example, individuals with BD will often have periods of extreme depression, followed by episodes of mania. They might exaggerate their energy levels, become easily distracted, and forget appointments. Their doctor can refer them to mental health professionals specializing in BD who can assist with diagnosis and treatment.
Educational Specialist
If your child seems to have trouble with inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity that can be disruptive to school and at home it's crucial to discuss the issue with a medical professional. Health professionals who are trained to diagnose ADHD include primary care physicians psychiatrists, therapists, and psychologists. According to the professional's training and credentials, they might be able provide psychotherapy.
When diagnosing ADHD health experts look at a range of factors. They look at the symptoms and how they affect the person's everyday functioning in various environments, including at school, home or at work, as well as in relationships. They also look at the person's history of symptoms as well as any family history of ADHD.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the person must exhibit at least six symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity and the ability to be impulsive, as described in diagnostic criteria for adolescents and children. This is a very rigorous procedure, and health professionals need to have as much information as possible to determine the diagnosis. This includes information directly from teachers as well as parents and other caregivers. It is particularly important to evaluate the behavior of a teenager or child in more than one setting, because many times symptoms manifest differently in different settings.
Many times, people who are diagnosed with ADHD find themselves struggling at work or at home in ways that aren't typical of their intelligence and age. The diagnosis is a relief since it indicates that the issues aren't due to lazyness or a lack in brain power. They can be treated by medication or other treatment options.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when symptoms have been present since childhood. It's because it's believed that ADHD isn't a condition that develops at the beginning of adulthood. Certain mental and medical conditions, along with major life events can cause symptoms that resemble ADHD. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis is important to rule these out before making an official diagnosis.
When adhd diagnosis uk adults are choosing a doctor to evaluate or treat your ADHD you should solicit recommendations from family, relatives, friends and therapists you are comfortable with. You should also conduct your research and learn about the professional's qualifications and experience. You might even want to ask about their previous clients and patients.