ICD 11 is the classification manual used world wide to diagnose ADHD. It specifies the specific criteria that must be fulfilled to receive a complete diagnosis. It requires a continuous pattern of at least six months of not paying attention and having problems such as being too hyperactive or impulsive.
When we say “not paying attention,” it may also refer to difficulties in regulating attention. Hyperactivity signifies as truggle to remain still or atendency to keep moving.Individuals may become quite restless when asked to stay still for any duration. These difficulties must be significant in academic, occupational, and social functioning. According to the ICD-11,the symptoms must have begun before the age of 12, although it acknowledges that some clinical symptoms may manifest much later.
Given normal intellectual functioning, the aforementioned symptoms must be inconsistent with issues related to typical functioning at that age. Inattention, according to the ICD-11, refers to difficulty in maintaining attention during activities that do not offer immediate rewards or those that provide high stimulation. This may result in incomplete tasks and getting easily distracted by external stimuli, such as sounds or internal thoughts.
Impulsivity is a tendency to act swiftly and without thought for potential risks or consequences. The criteria for diagnosing ADHD necessitate that these symptoms are evident in various situations or settings. Other mental and neuro developmental disorders must be ruled out first, including misuse of substances. There are certain subtypes given in the ICD 11. The following categories are recognised under the ICD 11.
6A05.0 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, predominantly inattentive presentation
6A05.1 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation
6A05.2 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, combined presentation
6A05.Y Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, other specified presentation
6A05.Z Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, presentation unspecified
ICD 11 outlines certain features that are considered to be essential for the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The main feature is the duration of symptoms, which requires at least 6 months. The symptoms must be persistent and uniform across all situations. Symptoms may vary according to the age and severity of the condition.
The ICD 11 describes symptoms of inattention as follows: losing things frequently and not being able to remember the upcoming events planned for the day. Symptoms of easy distraction include external factors such as sounds, noises, or lights outside or internal factors such as thoughts. Daydreaming and zoning out may be commonly reported. Inattention can also take the form of being careless and not paying attention to details. This may result in careless mistakes and difficulties in form filling.
Conversely, attention may be noticeable when immediate focus is evident. Hyperfocus and challenges in shifting attention could also occur. The symptoms of inattention must be prevalent most of the time and across various situations,necessitating that they impact social, occupational, or academic activities. Symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity are outlined in the ICD-11 as causing individualsto struggle with self-control,particularly when behavioural self-regulation is essential. This includes excessive physical activity, such as leaving one’s seat when expected to remain seated or experiencing unease and restlessness when required to sit still.
These tendencies must generally be persistent enough to directly and adversely impact academic, occupational, and social functioning. Talking excessively, having difficulty waiting for their turn, blurting out answers, interrupting others, or acting impulsively without regard for consequences are also indicative of these symptoms. This might include risky behaviours like driving dangerously and making rash decisions. The requirement is for these symptoms to have started before the age of 12. The symptoms must not be accounted for by anxiety, neurocognitive or disorders of substance misuse.
Understanding the history of ADHD is crucial for recognizing its symptoms and seeking appropriate Adult ADHD Treatment Options. If you believe you meet the diagnostic criteria for Adult ADHD, our specialists at ChennaiMinds can provide comprehensive Adult ADHD Therapy.
