Here's A Few Facts Regarding Who Diagnoses ADHD
Who get adhd diagnosis ADHD? Professionals who are licensed to diagnose ADHD include doctors (particularly psychiatrists, family physicians and neurologists), psychologists and licensed counselors and therapists. Nurse practitioners and social workers also perform initial assessments and provide therapy, but they are not able to prescribe medication. To be diagnosed with ADHD adults must exhibit more than five signs that lead to difficulties in school or at work settings and that are not better explained by other mental health disorders or conditions. Medical Doctor A thorough examination is required to identify accurately ADHD. This must be conducted by a medical doctor or mental health professional who has been skilled in the diagnosis of ADHD. There are many healthcare professionals who can perform an ADHD evaluation, including family nurses, doctors, a neurologist or psychiatrist and master level counselors with an education in psychology or counseling. The best option to diagnose ADHD is a psychiatrist particularly if they have expertise in treating ADHD patients. The physician or mental health professional will assess the patient and look into his or her symptoms and history. They will also look at how these symptoms affect the patient's life. The evaluator compares the person's behavior with what is expected for their age. He or she will determine if the symptoms could be explained by a distinct health issue, like physical or mental illness. The evaluator will talk to the parents, teachers, and any other caregivers who interact with the child. This includes daycare providers, coaches, etc. The evaluator will also review the child's educational and developmental history. To be diagnosed with ADHD the child must exhibit six or more symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity. The symptoms must be present in at least two different settings and result in impairments at school, at home, work and social settings. Adults diagnosed with ADHD are also questioned by 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 affected their relationships, school or work. In addition, the mental health professional will examine the individual's mood, medical history and other issues, such as drug or alcohol use. In some instances it is possible for a person to believe that their primary or general physician is the best person to assess their symptoms for ADHD because they are well-versed in their medical history. This isn't always the best option. People should think about whether they feel comfortable discussing this problem with their physician and if the PCP is confident in his ability to identify and rule out medical conditions that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Psychiatrist In some instances a primary care physician might be able to identify ADHD in a patient. These doctors are usually capable of assessing the situation and determine if medication is needed and send patients to specialists who can assist with treatment. Other professionals that are able to diagnose ADHD are psychologists, psychiatrists and physician's assistants. In certain cases an neurologist may be needed to evaluate the central nervous system and the brain. A psychiatric evaluation involves interviews with the patient as well as their parents and caregivers. It also involves evaluating the student's performance, as well as medical and family histories and completing mental health tests and questionnaires. In addition, a psychiatric specialist can recommend medical testing to rule out other illnesses or conditions that may cause symptoms of ADHD such as low birth weight, complications during birth or in the womb, or early exposure to substances and alcohol. To be able to identify ADHD the symptoms of the patient must be present in more than one setting like at home, at work and in social activities. They must also be significantly hindering the person's ability to function, and they must not be explained better by other mental disorders or mood disorders, like depression or bipolar disorder. If the symptoms of ADHD hinder the person's ability to do their job, they are qualified for 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 help people to understand their symptoms and learn how to cope with these symptoms. They can also provide emotional support and encouragement. They can also provide emotional support and encouragement. When choosing the right healthcare professional, it's important to choose someone who isn't judgmental and willing to talk to the patient openly. It's also important to consider the level of experience and knowledge that the healthcare professional is. If they appear to lack knowledge of ADHD or consider it to be an unimportant condition the patient may have to find a different doctor. Psychologist Psychologists are doctors who specialize in mental disorders like ADHD. They are able to provide expert assessment and therapy but they cannot prescribe medications. They may ask to interview other people, such as teachers and parents to get a clearer understanding of the person's life. They may also ask questions about the person's behavior. They will attempt to determine if symptoms have been present since childhood and, if not, whether they have been present within the last six months. Anyone who suspects that they might have ADHD should consult their primary care physician. They may not be able diagnose the condition but they can refer you to specialists who are. 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 as they will not be able to provide the quality of care needed. Some healthcare providers can diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD, including family physicians and psychiatrists. Before making an appointment, it is important to find out which doctors are the most familiar with ADHD. Inform your doctor of any medication you take, including sedatives and stimulating drugs. These medications can cause dangerous adverse effects when they interact. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a variety of emotions that include relief and confusion. If you receive a diagnosis and require additional help, consult your treatment team. This includes educational specialists, speech-language therapists and behavioral therapists. People suffering from ADHD often develop co-occurring conditions, such as depression or bipolar disorder (BD). BD and ADHD share many symptoms which is why it is essential to distinguish them during evaluation. Individuals with BD might experience periods of extreme depression that are followed by episodes mania. They may exaggerate the amount energy they have, become easily distracted and forget their appointments. They may be referred to mental health professionals who specialize in BD for help with diagnosis and treatment. Education Specialist It is essential to talk with a health professional if you or your child are experiencing issues with hyperactivity, inattention or an impulsive behavior, which could disrupt school and home life. Primary health doctors, therapists and psychiatrists are all trained to recognize ADHD. Depending on the professional's qualifications and training, they may also be able provide treatment like psychotherapy. When diagnosing ADHD, health professionals look at a variety of factors. They assess the symptoms and how they impact the person's daily functioning in a variety of environments, including at home, school, work and in relationships. They also look at the person's history of symptoms and any family history of ADHD. To be diagnosed with ADHD the person must exhibit at least six symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity and an impulsive behavior, as defined in diagnostic criteria for teens and children. This is a rigorous process, so health professionals must have as much information as possible to establish the diagnosis. This includes direct information from the patient's parents, teachers and other caregivers. It is crucial to assess the behavior of a teenager or child in a variety of settings, since the symptoms can differ across environments. If someone is diagnosed with ADHD, they often realize that their difficulties at home or at work are not typical of their age and intelligence. The diagnosis is a relief as it demonstrates that the issues are not due to laziness or a lack of brain power. They can be treated with medication and other options for treatment. Adults are more likely be diagnosed with ADHD when symptoms were present in childhood. It's because it is believed that ADHD is not a condition that can be detected until adulthood. Some medical and mental conditions, along with life events that are significant can trigger symptoms that resemble ADHD. It is important to rule these out before making a definitive diagnosis. When you are choosing a doctor to treat or evaluate your ADHD, it's best to solicit recommendations from family, people you know, family members and therapists you trust. It's recommended to do your homework and find out more about the professional's credentials and expertise. You may be able to inquire about their previous clients and patients.