How ADHD is Diagnosed and Treated

 

People who have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) display a behavior pattern with some combination of inattention and hyperactivity and impulsivity. This pattern manifests to the extent that it interferes with the individual’s functioning and development. It must be diagnosed by a competent pediatrician, psychologist or psychiatrist. ADHD is most often diagnosed in school settings in children below the age of twelve years. Most schools offer free ADHD testing, which helps parents and teachers to pay attention to the needs of the students.

What is ADHD?
ADHD or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder produces a behavior pattern in which lack of attention or hyperactivity and impulsivity are dominant. This makes individuals disorganized and unable to focus on a single task. Hyperactivity refers to restlessness and constant movement and activity such as fidgeting, tapping, or talking. Both types of behaviors affect academic and work performance as well as social relationships.
ADHD is most often diagnosed in school settings, before the child is twelve years of age. It is estimated that 6.4 million children in the U.S., between the ages of four and seventeen years, have ADHD. Boys are three times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with ADHD. On average, the diagnosis is made by the time a child is seven years old. Many schools offer free adhd tests and screenings. These can make both parents and teachers aware of the problems that a child may face in school work, and help them to make special accommodations.

What are some problems caused by ADHD?
ADHD produces behaviors which make it difficult for the individual to focus on school or work. People with this disorder may be disorganized, find it difficult to focus, and miss out details. They may find it difficult to maintain their concentration in conversations or reading.
As adults, persons with ADHD may often miss deadlines, and have trouble with paperwork and filling forms. They can also be forgetful and constantly lose things. Half of all adults with ADHD also suffer from anxiety disorders. Related behaviors caused by hyperactivity can also lead to problems in social relationships with other people. Students diagnosed with this disorder may need special accommodations, such as lsat accommodations giving them more time to complete the tests.

How is ADHD diagnosed and treated?
ADHD can only be diagnosed by a licensed clinician, such as a pediatrician, psychologist, or psychiatrist after a comprehensive evaluation that includes cognitive assessment. ADHD testing finds that one out of five or 20% of U.S. schoolchildren has ADHD or dyslexia. Many schools offer free ADHD testing. It is intended to guide parents and teachers so they can help children with this disorder. However, nearly half or 48% of all parents whose children have been diagnosed with ADHD feel that they will just outgrow the symptoms.
There is no cure for ADHD, but treatments include medication, psychotherapy, education, and training. These can be combined in different forms. For both kids and adults, keeping regular routines and schedules can help overcome aspects of this disorder. Organizing activities, school and work supplies, using written reminders and organizers can help individuals to remain focused. Schools testing agencies can make ACT accommodations for students with ADHD, such as extra time to complete the tests.

Many schools provide free adhd testing to help parents and teachers aware of the need for special accommodations for students. ADHD cannot be cured but a combination of treatments, including training, medication, and psychotherapy can help individuals improve their functioning and skills.