Who Diagnoses ADHD?

Professionals who are licensed to diagnose ADHD include doctors (particularly psychiatrists, family physicians and neurologists), psychologists and licensed counselors and therapists. Social workers and nurse practitioners also conduct initial assessments and provide therapy, but they are not able to prescribe medication.

To be considered to have ADHD, adults must have more than five symptoms that result in difficulties in school or at work settings, and aren't more easily explained by other mental health disorders or mood conditions.

Medical Doctor

A thorough evaluation is required to accurately diagnose ADHD. This should be done by a medical doctor or mental health professional trained in the diagnosis of ADHD. There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can perform an ADHD evaluation, such as family nurses, doctors, a neurologist or psychiatrist and master-level counselors who have an education in counseling or psychology. But the best option for diagnosing ADHD could be a psychiatrist, particularly one who has experience in treating patients with ADHD.

The doctor or mental healthcare professional will assess the patient, and examine the patient's symptoms and past. They will also examine how these symptoms affect the patient's life. The examiner will compare the person's behavior with what is expected of a person's age. They will also determine whether the symptoms are better explained by another illness, such as depression or a physical illness.

For children, the evaluator will interview parents teachers, parents and other caregivers who interact with the child, like coaches or day care providers. The evaluator will also review the child's educational and developmental background. To be diagnosed with ADHD the child must exhibit six or more symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention or impulsivity. The symptoms must be evident in at least two different settings and cause impairments in school, home, work and social situations.

Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD will be asked to conduct similar interviews with family members and coworkers and will also be asked to provide a complete medical and mental health history. They will be asked to explain how the symptoms have affected their lives and whether they have affected relationships, work and school. Additionally 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 care doctor is the best choice to test their condition for ADHD because they are familiar with his or her medical history. This is not always a good idea. People should consider whether or not the person is comfortable talking to their PCP about this particular issue and if they feel confident that the doctor can recognize and rule out any medical conditions that might be similar to the symptoms of ADHD.

Psychiatrist

9326527 at school, in the workplace, or in relationships. They also examine the person's past symptoms as well as the family history of ADHD.

To be diagnosed with ADHD, one must exhibit 6 or more symptoms of hyperactivity or inattention and the ability to be impulsive, as described in the diagnostic criteria for children and teens. It is a difficult process and health professionals should have as much information about the patient as possible. This includes direct information from the patient's parents and teachers, as well as other caregivers. It is crucial to examine the behavior of a teenager or child in a variety of settings since often, symptoms occur differently in different settings.

If someone is diagnosed with ADHD They often discover that their struggles at home or at work aren't typical of their age or intelligence. The diagnosis is a relief because it means that the issues aren't caused by laziness or lack of brain power and can be helped by medication and other treatments.

Health professionals in adulthood are more likely to recognize ADHD in those who were present since the age of. It's because it's thought that ADHD isn't a condition that develops for the first time in adulthood. Some medical and mental conditions, along with major life events, may trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. It's important to rule out these conditions prior 9326527 to making a definitive diagnosis.

When you are choosing a doctor to assess or treat your ADHD, it's best to solicit recommendations from family, relatives, friends and therapists you trust. You should also do your research and learn about the professional’s qualifications and expertise. You may even be interested in their previous clients and patients.