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Who Diagnoses ADHD?
The licensed professionals who diagnose ADHD include doctors (particularly psychiatrists, family doctors and neurologists), psychologists and licensed counselors and therapists. Nurse practitioners and social workers also perform initial assessments and provide therapy but cannot prescribe medication.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD must show more than five symptoms, that can cause problems at work or in school and cannot be explained by other mental disorders or mood disorders.
Medical Doctor
A thorough assessment is necessary to identify accurately ADHD. This should be performed by an expert in mental health or a medical professional who is certified to diagnose ADHD. There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment, including family doctors, nurses, a neurologist or psychiatrist and master level counselors with an education in psychology or counseling. The best method to diagnose ADHD is a psychiatrist particularly if they have experience treating ADHD patients.
The doctor or mental healthcare professional will assess the patient and review his or her symptoms and history. They will also consider how these symptoms impact the patient's life. The person evaluating the patient compares the behavior of the person to what is normal for their age. The evaluator will determine if the behavior can be attributed to a different health issue, like depression or physical disease.
The evaluator will talk to the parents teachers, parents, and any other caregivers who interact with the child. This includes coaches, daycare providers and other daycare providers. The evaluator will also review the child's academic and developmental history. To be diagnosed with ADHD the child must exhibit six or more symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and/or impulsivity. The symptoms must be present in more than one setting and cause problems in school, at home, work and social situations.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD will have similar interviews with their family members and friends, as well as an extensive medical and mental health history. They will also be asked to describe how the symptoms have affected their lives and whether they have affected relationships, work and school. The professional in mental health will also assess the person's mood, medical background and other issues such as alcohol or drug use.
In some instances it is possible for a person to believe that their primary or general health care provider is the best choice to assess them for ADHD because they are well-versed in their medical history. This isn't always the best option. One should consider whether they feel comfortable discussing this problem with their physician and whether the PCP is confident in their ability to identify and rule out medical conditions that might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
Psychiatrist
In some instances, individuals who suffer from ADHD may be able to receive a diagnosis from their primary doctor. These doctors can assess the situation and determine if medication will be required. They can also refer patients to specialists who can help with treatment. Other professionals who can diagnose ADHD include psychologists, psychiatrists nurse practitioners, physician' assistants. In certain cases, a neurologist will be needed to assess the central nervous system and brain.
A psychiatric assessment involves interviewing the patient, parents and caregivers, as well as assessing school performance, medical and family history and completing mental health questionnaires and tests. In addition, a psychiatrist specialist may recommend medical tests to rule out any other illnesses or conditions that may cause symptoms of ADHD such as low birth weight, complications during the delivery, environmental toxins in the womb or early childhood exposure to drugs and alcohol.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must manifest in at least two environments such as at home, work, and social activities. They must also be significantly limiting the person's functioning and cannot be attributed to other mental illnesses or mood disorders, like depression or bipolar disorder. If the symptoms of ADHD affect the person's ability to do their job, they are qualified for reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
A psychologist or counselor with an advanced degree in counseling may be able to aid those suffering from ADHD. These professionals are able to assist people in understanding their symptoms and help how to manage these symptoms. They can also provide emotional assistance and motivation. They can also offer emotional support and encouragement.
When choosing the right healthcare professional, it's important to find one who isn't judgmental and willing to talk to the patient in a transparent manner. Also, you should be aware of the knowledge and experience of the healthcare professional. If they appear to lack understanding of ADHD or consider it to be an unimportant condition the patient may have to seek a different provider.
Psychologist
While they have advanced degrees and are referred to as doctors, psychologists specialize in mental health conditions like ADHD. They can offer expert assessments and therapy, however, they are not able to prescribe medication. They can request to speak with other people, such as teachers and parents, to get a better picture of the individual's experience. They may also ask questions about the person's present behavior. They will determine if symptoms have been present since childhood, and if not, if they have only been present for the last six months.
Anyone who suspects they may have ADHD should speak with their primary care physician. Although they may not be able diagnose the condition, they may assist in referring patients to specialists who are able to. People should select professionals with whom they feel secure and comfortable. They should stay clear of a professional who is judgmental or dismisses their concerns as they are unlikely to provide the quality of care needed.
Some healthcare providers, such as family physicians and psychiatrists, are able to evaluate and treat adults suffering from ADHD. However, a person should be aware of which specialists have the most experience with the disorder before making an appointment. People should also be sure to inform their health care providers about any medications they're taking, especially sedatives and stimulants. These medications may interact with each other and cause dangerous adverse effects.
A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a variety of emotions such as relief and confusion. If you are diagnosed you should seek out additional help from your treatment team. This includes speech-language therapy and behavioral therapists.
People with ADHD often have co-occurring disorders, such as bipolar disorder or depression (BD). BD and ADHD have many similar symptoms, so it's important to distinguish them during evaluation. People suffering from BD might experience periods of extreme depression, followed by episodes mania. They might overly exaggerate their energy levels, become easily distracted, and even forget appointments. Their healthcare provider can refer them to mental health professionals specializing in BD who can assist with diagnosis and treatment.
Educational Specialist
It is important to talk with a health professional when you or your child is experiencing issues with hyperactivity, inattention or an impulsive behavior, which could disrupt school and family life. Primary health doctors, therapists and psychiatrists are all able to recognize ADHD. Depending on the professional's qualifications and experience, they might also be able to provide treatments such as psychotherapy.
When diagnosing ADHD health professionals take into consideration a number of factors. adhd diagnosis uk look at the symptoms and how they impact the person's daily functioning in several settings, including at school, home and at work as well as in relationships. They also take into account the person's past history of symptoms and any family history of ADHD.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person must have at least six or more signs of hyperactivity, inattention, or the ability to be impulsive, as described in the diagnostic criteria for teens and children. This is a rigorous process, which is why health professionals need to have as much information as possible to make the diagnosis. This includes direct information from parents and teachers, as well as other caregivers. It is particularly important to evaluate a child or teenager's behavior in multiple settings, because many times symptoms manifest differently in different settings.
When people are diagnosed with ADHD They often discover that their issues at home or at work aren't typical of their age and intelligence. The diagnosis is a relief since it indicates that the issues are not due to laziness or a lack of brainpower. They can be addressed by medication or other treatments.
In adults, health professionals are more likely to recognize ADHD if the symptoms were present since the age of. This is because it's currently thought that ADHD cannot develop for the first time in adulthood. Certain mental and medical illnesses, as well as major life events, can trigger symptoms that resemble ADHD. It's important to rule these out prior to making a definitive diagnosis.
It is best to ask trusted family members, friends or family members, as well as therapists for recommendations when selecting the right health professional to assess or treat ADHD. It's recommended to do your homework and find out more about the professional's qualifications and experience. You might even consider asking about their previous patients and clients.
