View Single Post
 
Old Jul 26, 2008, 05:17 AM
Simcha's Avatar
Simcha Simcha is offline
Poohbah
 
Member Since: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,156
</font><blockquote><div id="quote"><font class="small">Quote:</font>
imacademic said:
"It is possible you have ADHD (ADHD is the accepted term now, not ADD). You won't know until you go to a psychologist."

I would appreciate it if you can let me know the origin of this information. The necessary criteria for
diagnosis of each disorder is quite distinct and the qualified person to determine diagnosis would be
a psychiatrist, as often medication is necessary.

It's not my style to disagree or prove to be right. ADD/ADHD is something I take very seriously and my
only intent is to create a greater understanding amongst those struggling with the disorder. With sheer determination many of us have an advantage over mere mortals.

GLADD TO BE ME

</div></font></blockquote><font class="post">
Hi.
The DSM IV is the source. My psychologist uses both terms interchangeably though, as he is used to using the older term ADD. They wanted to get people away from thinking that ADD and ADHD are two different disorders (they aren't).
Psychiatrists are not usually trained in the extensive neuropsychological testing to accurately diagnose ADHD in my opinion.
Medication is a choice. Not everyone with ADHD needs medication to improve their symptoms, but a psychologist can refer to a MD with whom they will share information with (patient's signed consent) if they think it is warranted. Good psychologists recognize their limitations.
__________________
--SIMCHA