Who Diagnoses ADHD?
Licensed professionals who diagnose ADHD include doctors (particularly psychiatrists, family doctors and neurologists) psychologists, psychologists, and licensed counselors and therapists. Social workers and nurse practitioners also conduct initial assessments and offer therapy but are not able prescribe medication.
To be considered to have ADHD adults must show more than five symptoms that result in problems in school or work settings and that are not better explained by other mental health disorders or mood disorders.
Medical Doctor
A thorough assessment is necessary to accurately diagnose ADHD. This should be conducted by a mental health professional or medical professional who is qualified to identify ADHD. There are many healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment, including family nurses, doctors, a neurologist or psychiatrist and master-level counselors who have degrees in psychology or counseling. The best option to diagnose ADHD is a psychiatrist who has experience treating ADHD patients.
The doctor or mental health professional will assess the patient and analyze his or her symptoms, past history and how these symptoms impact the person's life. The evaluator will compare the behavior of the patient to what is normal for their age. He or she will determine if the symptoms could be explained by a distinct health issue, like physical or mental disease.
For children the evaluator will speak with parents, teachers and any other caregivers who interact with the child, such as coaches or day care providers. The evaluator also examines the child's developmental and educational background. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD children must display at least six or more signs of inattention, hyperactivity and/or impulsivity. The symptoms must be present at least twice and result in problems at home, school, the workplace and in social settings.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD undergo similar interviews with their family members and colleagues, as well a complete medical history and mental health. They will also be asked to write about how the symptoms have affected their lives and if they have impacted relationships, work and school. In addition, the mental health professional will evaluate the individual's mood medical history and other issues, like drinking or using drugs.
In certain situations it is possible for a person to believe that their primary physician is the best person to test them for ADHD because they are familiar with his or her medical background. This is not always the best option. It is important to consider whether or not the person is comfortable speaking to their doctor regarding this particular issue, and also if they believe that the PCP can identify and rule out any medical conditions that might be similar to the symptoms of ADHD.
Psychiatrist
In some instances, individuals with ADHD might be able to be diagnosed by their primary care physician. These doctors are usually able to assess the situation, determine if medication is required and send patients to an expert who can help in the treatment. Other professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD include psychologists, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners and physicians' assistants. In some cases the services of a neurologist are needed to evaluate the central nervous system and the brain.
A psychiatric assessment involves interviewing the patient, parents and caregivers, assessing the student's performance and medical history and completing mental health questionnaires and tests. A psychiatric professional can suggest medical tests to rule out other diseases or conditions that could trigger symptoms of ADHD. These include problems with birth weight, complications associated with delivery, environmental toxins during pregnancy, or early childhood exposures to alcohol and drugs.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must be evident in at least two different settings that include at home, work, and social activities. They should also be restricting the person's performance and cannot be explained better by other mental illnesses or mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder. If the symptoms of ADHD impact the ability of a person to do their job, they are qualified to receive reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
A psychologist or counselor who has an advanced degree in counseling may be able to help people with ADHD. These professionals can assist people in understanding their symptoms and teach how to deal with these symptoms. They can also offer emotional support and support. People with ADHD often feel judged for their inability to concentrate and complete tasks, but obtaining an diagnosis can help them realize that it's not their fault.
When selecting the right healthcare professional, it's essential to choose someone who is nonjudgmental and willing to speak with the patient openly. It is also important to be aware of the knowledge and experience of the healthcare professional. If they dismiss ADHD as a minor issue or aren't aware of it, the patient may require another doctor.
Psychologist
While they may have advanced degrees and are recognized as doctors, psychologists specialize in mental health conditions like ADHD. They can offer counseling and provide assessments that are based on expertise however, they are not able prescribe medications. They can request to speak with others, like parents and teachers to gain a more complete understanding of the person's life. They can also inquire about the individual's present behavior. They will determine if symptoms have been present since childhood, and if not, if they have only been present for the past six months.
People who suspect that they may have ADHD should talk to their primary healthcare provider. They might not be able to identify the problem, but they may be able to refer you to specialists who are. Patients should select specialists they feel comfortable with and are confident in their capabilities. They should stay clear of specialists who judge or ignore their concerns, as they will not offer the proper care.
Some healthcare providers like family physicians and psychiatrists, can evaluate and treat adults suffering from ADHD. Prior to making an appointment, it's crucial to determine which doctors are the most familiar with ADHD. Also, it is important to tell their healthcare providers about any medications they are taking, particularly stimulants and sedatives. These medications can cause dangerous side effects when 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, therapists and behavioral therapists.
adhd uk diagnosis who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from co-occurring disorders like bipolar disorder or depression. BD and ADHD share many of the same symptoms, so it's important to distinguish them in the course of assessment. Individuals suffering from BD might suffer from periods of extreme depression followed by episodes mania. They might overly exaggerate their energy levels, become easily distracted, and even forget appointments. They can be referred mental health professionals who specialize in BD for help with diagnosis and treatment.
Education Specialist
It is important to talk to a health care professional in the event that you or your child are experiencing trouble with hyperactivity, inattention or the tendency to be impulsive, which can be disruptive to school and family life. Primary health care physicians, therapists and psychiatrists are all qualified to diagnose ADHD. Based on the professional's education 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 daily life whether at home, at school, in the workplace, or in relationships. They also look at the person's past symptoms as well as family history of ADHD.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, one must exhibit at least six or more signs of hyperactivity or inattention and impulsivity, as listed in the diagnostic criteria for adolescents and children. It's a challenging process and health professionals must have as much information about the patient as possible. This includes information directly from the patient's teachers or parents, as well as other caregivers. It is crucial to examine the behavior of a teenager or child in multiple settings since often symptoms manifest differently in different settings.
When people are diagnosed with ADHD They often discover that their struggles at home or at work are not typical of their age and intelligence. The diagnosis is a relief since it demonstrates that the issues aren't due to lazyness or a lack in brain power. They can be addressed with medication and other treatments.
Adults are more likely be diagnosed with ADHD if symptoms have been present in the beginning of their lives. It's because it's believed that ADHD cannot develop at the beginning of adulthood. Some medical and mental conditions, along with major life events, can trigger symptoms that resemble ADHD. It's crucial to rule out these conditions prior to making an accurate diagnosis.
It is best to ask your trusted friends, family members and therapists for recommendations before choosing the right health professional to examine or treat ADHD. It's important to do your research and learn more about the professional's qualifications and expertise. You might also consider asking about their previous clients and patients.