How to Know If You Have ADHD
There are a number of symptoms that can point to ADHD. This is why getting a diagnosis is so important.
Adults with ADHD can exhibit impulsivity that can interfere with relationships. Such adults also may struggle with depression.
When evaluating adults, professionals may ask about childhood problems that could have led to the present symptoms of ADHD. It’s important for them to hear the patient’s story openly and honestly.
What Are The Symptoms Of ADHD
If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, you can get help. ADHD can cause problems with focus, attention, and impulsivity that can disrupt schoolwork, relationships, and daily activities.
A professional diagnosis usually includes symptom tests, interviews, a medical history, and evaluations for other conditions commonly diagnosed alongside ADHD, including oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, anxiety, depression, tic disorders or Tourette syndrome, substance abuse, sleep disorders and learning disabilities.
Kids and teens with ADHD may lose track of assignments or misplace items, making it hard for them to complete schoolwork. They may also find it difficult to keep track of their homework, books, and supplies at home.
Causes Of ADHD
The causes of ADHD aren’t entirely known, but researchers believe it’s a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Getting pregnant, being exposed to certain toxins, and some medical conditions can all make you more likely to develop ADHD.
Symptoms usually start in childhood, though they can appear at any age. Doctors diagnose ADHD by looking at a child’s behavior, taking a history from parents and teachers, and doing a physical exam.
Children with ADHD have trouble paying attention to details, focusing on tasks and activities, or being impulsive and hyperactive. These symptoms may also cause problems with schoolwork, social interactions and other activities.
Getting Diagnosed With ADHD
Getting a diagnosis for ADHD is an important first step in receiving treatment. It can help you and your family understand how you’re experiencing the condition, and find a way to manage symptoms that can be so frustrating for both of you.
Diagnosis of ADHD is a complex process that includes medical history and evaluations for conditions that often go hand-in-hand with ADHD — namely ODD, OCD, anxiety, depression and autism spectrum disorder.
The ADHD diagnosis process begins with a thorough assessment by a medical professional, such as a psychiatrist, a pediatrician or an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). The doctor or therapist will interview you and your child, complete normed rating scales, review school reports, and evaluate your or your child’s behavior in other settings.
Risk Factors Of ADHD
ADHD has a wide range of risk factors that may put an individual at higher risk for developing the disorder. Some of these risk factors are genetic and run in families.
For example, women who smoke during pregnancy have a greater risk for having a child with ADHD. Exposure to toxins such as lead, PCBs and pesticides are also thought to increase the risk of ADHD.
Other risks of ADHD include a history of mood disorders or anxiety disorders. If your child has these conditions, it may be difficult for them to cope with the challenges that come with ADHD.
Complications Of ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition that affects the way you focus and think. It can cause problems with work, relationships and school performance.
The condition is a neurodevelopmental disorder, meaning it affects how the brain develops and functions across the lifespan. It is most common in children and teens but may also affect adults.
ADHD can be treated with medication, behavioural therapies and changes at home or school. These treatments help you focus, control impulsivity and learn to organize your time.
Adults with untreated ADHD can have a lot of problems in their relationships because they have trouble paying attention, get easily distracted and impulsively say or do things without thinking. This can lead to arguments and even breakups. They can also struggle with executive function, which is the ability to plan and organise tasks effectively.
