Who Diagnoses ADHD?
Psychologists as well as counselors and therapists who are licensed to diagnose ADHD are also on the list. Nurse practitioners and social workers also can perform initial assessments and provide therapy but cannot prescribe medication.
To be considered to have ADHD adults must exhibit more than five symptoms that lead to problems in school or work environments and are not more easily explained by other mental health issues or mood conditions.
Medical Doctor
A thorough assessment is necessary to accurately diagnose ADHD. This should be performed by a psychiatrist or a mental health professional skilled in the diagnosis of ADHD. There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD evaluation, such as family nurses, doctors, a neurologist or psychiatrist and master level counselors with degrees in psychology or counseling. However, the most effective method of diagnosing ADHD may be a psychiatrist, specifically one with experience treating patients suffering from ADHD.
The doctor or mental health professional will evaluate the patient and look at his or her symptoms, their history and how those symptoms affect the person's life. The examiner will compare the individual's behavior to the expectations of the person's age. The evaluator will also determine whether the symptoms are more easily explained by another illness, such as depression or physical illness.
For children the evaluator will talk to parents teachers, parents and any other caregivers who interact with the child, like coaches or day care providers. The evaluator also reviews the child's development and educational history. To be diagnosed with ADHD the child must display at least six of the symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity. The symptoms must be present in two or more settings and cause problems in school, home, work and social situations.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD undergo similar interviews with their family members and friends as well as a thorough medical history and mental health. They will be asked about how the symptoms have affected them and if it has interfered with their relationships, work or school. Additionally the mental health professional will assess the individual's mood medical history and other problems, such as drinking or using drugs.
In some instances one might think that their primary or general care doctor is the best option to test their condition for ADHD because they are familiar with their medical background. This is not always the best choice. It is important to consider whether they feel at ease discussing this issue with their doctor and whether the PCP is confident in his or her ability to identify and rule out medical conditions that might be similar to symptoms of ADHD.
Psychiatrist
In certain instances the primary care physician might be able to diagnose ADHD in patients. These doctors are typically able to assess the situation, determine if medication is required and refer patients to specialists who can assist with treatment. Other professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD include psychiatrists, psychologists, nurse practitioners and physicians assistants. In certain cases, a neurologist will be needed to evaluate the brain and central nervous system.
A psychiatric evaluation includes interviewing the patient, parents and caregivers, evaluating the student's performance and medical history and completing mental health questionnaires and tests. A psychiatric expert can also suggest medical tests to rule out other conditions or illnesses that may cause symptoms of ADHD. This includes the low birth weight, complications associated with delivery, environmental toxins in pregnancy or exposure in the early years of childhood to drugs and alcohol.
To get a diagnosis of ADHD, the person's symptoms must be evident in two or more settings including at home, at work, and in social activities. They must also hinder the person's ability to function and not be caused by other mental disorders or mood disorders such as depression or Bipolar Disorder. If ADHD symptoms impact a person's job performance, they may be eligible for reasonable accommodations.
A counselor or psychologist with an advanced degree in counseling may be able to assist people with ADHD. These professionals can help people to understand their issues and learn to deal with these symptoms. adhd diagnosis uk adults can also provide emotional support and motivation. People suffering from ADHD often feel being judged for their inability to concentrate and finish tasks, but obtaining an diagnosis can help them realize it's not the fault of ADHD.
It is essential to choose a healthcare professional who is nonjudgmental, and willing to speak freely with the patient. It is also important to think about how knowledgeable and experienced the healthcare professional is. If they treat ADHD as a minor issue or have no knowledge of it, the patient may need to find a new provider.
Psychologist
While they may have advanced degrees and are addressed as psychologists, psychologists specialize in mental health issues such as ADHD. They can provide counseling and provide assessments that are based on expertise however they are not able to prescribe medication. They can request other people to be interviewed, such as teachers and parents to gain a greater understanding of the person's life. They can also inquire about the individual's behavior in the present. They will determine if signs have been present in the person since childhood, and if they have not the case if they've only been present for the past six months.
Anyone who suspects that they have ADHD should speak with their primary care physician. Although they may not be able to diagnose the condition, they may assist in referring patients to specialists who can. People should select professionals with whom they feel comfortable and comfortable. They should avoid a specialist who acts in a judgmental manner or ignores their concerns since they are unlikely to provide the quality of care needed.
Certain healthcare professionals, such as family physicians and psychiatrists, are able to evaluate and treat adults with ADHD. However, one should find out which practitioners have the most experience in treating the disorder prior to scheduling an appointment. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, including sedatives and stimulating drugs. These drugs can trigger dangerous side effects if they interact.
A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a variety of emotions, including relief and confusion. If you receive a diagnosis you should seek out additional help from your treatment team. This includes speech and educational specialists, therapy and behavioral therapists.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to develop co-occurring disorders, like bipolar disorder or depression. BD and ADHD have a lot of similar symptoms, and it's therefore important to distinguish them during evaluation. adhd uk diagnosis suffering from BD may experience periods of extreme depression followed by episodes of mania. They might exaggerate the amount of energy they have, become easily distracted and forget appointments. Their healthcare provider can refer them to mental health professionals specializing in BD who can help in the treatment and diagnosis.
Education Specialist
It's important to speak to a health care professional if you or your child is experiencing issues with hyperactivity, inattention, or an impulsive behavior, which could disrupt school and at-home life. Primary health doctors, therapists and psychiatrists are all qualified to diagnose ADHD. Based on the professional's credentials and experience, they might also be able to provide treatments such as 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 several settings, including at home, school and 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.
A person must show at least six symptoms, including inattention or hyperactivity, for them to be identified as having ADHD. These symptoms are described in the criteria for diagnosing children with ADHD. It's a challenging process and health professionals should have as much information about the patient as is possible. This includes direct information from the patient's parents and teachers, as well as other caregivers. It's especially important to assess the behavior of a teenager or child in multiple settings as often symptoms are different in different settings.
Many times, people who are diagnosed with ADHD realize that they struggle at work or at home in ways that aren't typical for their intelligence and age. The diagnosis is a relief since it shows that the problems aren't due to lazyness or a lack in brain power. They can be treated with medication and other treatments.
Adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when symptoms were present in the early years of childhood. This is because it's currently believed that ADHD isn't a condition that develops for the first time until adulthood. Certain mental and medical illnesses, as well as life events that are significant can cause symptoms that resemble ADHD. It's important to rule out these conditions prior to making an official diagnosis.
It's best to ask trusted friends or family members, as well as therapists for recommendations when selecting an expert in health care who can examine or treat ADHD. It's important to research and learn more about the credentials of the practitioner and experience. You may also be able to inquire about the previous clients and patients they have served.