ADHD Assessments
There isn't a single test that can be used to determine whether an individual suffers from ADHD. Specialists use a variety tools to collect information and study the signs of an individual.
These include standardized clinical interviewing and rating scales, observational ratings and a number of psychometric/neuropsychological tests (including intelligence testing). They are an integral element of the comprehensive evaluation process required to assess, screen the condition, diagnose and monitor treatment.
Assessment Process
The majority of ADHD assessments involve a thorough interview with the person being evaluated. This is conducted by a professional like a doctor, psychologist or clinical social worker. The doctor will inquire about the person's history and present symptoms. A lot of evaluators utilize standardized behavior rating scales. These scales are based on research that compares the behavior of people suffering from ADHD and those without. They are not diagnostic in their own right however they provide important objective data to the evaluation. They include the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale and the Teacher-Parent Report Form of Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC). For adults, a standardized ADHD rating scale, such as the Wender Utah Rating Scale may be used. For both adults and children the doctor will also use a behavioral checklist. This is used to look for other conditions which often occur in conjunction with ADHD. These include conduct disorder, oppositional disorder anxiety, depression, and apathy.
The evaluator also will look into the person's medical history and current medications. In addition, the therapist will look over medical records and gather background information about the person's family and surroundings. The examiner may inquire if the person's parents, or other relatives, have ADHD and what symptoms they had.
Neuropsychological and psychometric tests can provide crucial information to assist the evaluator in diagnosing ADHD, especially when there is some uncertainty about the diagnosis. These tests aren't suitable as the main tool to diagnose ADHD because of their insensitivity and specificity. They don't take into account the complexity of daily situations that adults have to face.
A more recent test SPECT brain imaging can provide valuable information on how the brain works during a a brief period of time. However, the results are only useful in the diagnosis of certain types of illnesses and injuries that affect the brain. They don't accurately reflect the way the brain functions during everyday situations such as at work, school, and in relationships.
It is best to consult an expert in mental health who has experience in the evaluation and management of ADHD. The best way to find such a person is through a referral from the doctor, therapist or any other professional.
Symptoms
People with ADHD often have trouble staying focused and controlling their emotions. This can cause problems at school, work, or in personal relationships. It is also difficult to cope with daily stressors. If not treated, ADHD symptoms could cause serious consequences such as job loss, friendships broken and many other negative outcomes.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms of an individual must last throughout childhood and adolescence. These symptoms must also interfere in their ability to function normally and must have been present prior to the age of 12.
Inattention and impulsivity are two of the most frequent symptoms of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms include trouble staying on task, missing important information, and having difficulty remembering things. The person could also display poor organizational skills or have difficulties following instructions and keeping track of multiple tasks at once.
Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms include fidgeting, being unable to sit still, having excess energy, and being talkative. A person with this kind of ADHD might also have difficulty being patient or interrupting others.
Children are often afflicted with these kinds of ADHD symptoms as they enter school. They may have a difficult time in school due to academic demands and become frustrated by their inability to organize or focus. They may also have issues with interpersonal relationships due their tendency to have emotional outbursts.
These symptoms can continue throughout adulthood, which can lead to problems at work and in romantic relationships and with family members. Untreated ADHD can cause people to feel embarrassed or blame themselves. how do you get assessed for adhd might believe that they're not competent enough to succeed or that there is something wrong with them. But it's important to understand that having ADHD doesn't mean you're less smart or skilled.
Your primary care physician or a mental health professional will conduct a thorough examination to determine if you suffer from ADHD. They will ask about your symptoms and the effects they have on your life. They will also interview your spouse as well as other family members and even your family members. To determine your symptoms, they'll employ scales for behavior and lists of symptoms. They will also review your medical history and educational background. They might also refer you for a physical exam or psychological tests to rule out any other conditions.
Diagnosis
You or your child is struggling in school. You might be concerned about the dreaded snow day or the most recent teacher evaluation. You've heard about ADHD but don't know what it means -- is your child just lazy or is she suffering from a problem that's easier to treat than to solve? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. It is important to determine whether the issues are caused by too much screen time, bad parenting, or a medical condition. Your family doctor can assist you to determine whether an ADHD assessment is the right one for you.
In general the majority of cases, an ADHD assessment consists of an interview and a review of symptoms, and the use of rating scales or checklists. Doctors will inquire about the patient's history of health, development going back to childhood academic and work experiences, driving history and family and marital relationships. The examiner will check for any other conditions, such as learning disabilities and mood and anxiety disorders.
The person who is being evaluated must be able to discuss the issues in a candid and honest manner. It is important that the person being analyzed does not hide in shame or because of fear of criticism. This will assist the examiner understand how the ADHD symptoms affect everyday life and to recommend treatment options.
To be eligible for a diagnosis of ADHD, several symptoms must have been present before age 12, and must be "impairing" in at least two major situations, such as at home or school. It's not just about being forgetful or having difficulty keeping up with assignments. It could also mean being fired from work for tardiness or failing to complete tasks on time, or creating tension and conflict in a relationship.
Many doctors will interview the patient as well as the loved ones such as spouse or sibling. They may also ask for feedback from those who spend a great deal of time with the patient such as a nanny or coach. This kind of personal information often uncovers information that can't be obtained from questionnaires. Psychologists will often conduct physical examinations and tests in the laboratory, like blood and urine testing, to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms.
Treatment
A health professional can perform an ADHD assessment to determine if there is an underlying cause, such as a mental condition or another physical condition that causes similar symptoms. A thorough assessment involves looking over the patient's mental and medical history, evaluating past and present behavior, as well as school performance, and then contacting teachers, family members, and other caregivers to get a more complete picture of how the individual operates in various environments.
People suffering from ADHD often benefit from a mix of treatments, says Dr. Frank. Some are prescribed medications to help improve focus and concentration and reduce impulsiveness. These include as stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall, or non-stimulant medicines which take longer to work but may also help improve attention abilities, such as Intuniv or Clonidine.
Behavioral therapy is also part of the majority of treatment plans, especially for children. For example, the therapist might teach them organizational strategies to make it easier for them to organize their belongings, or they might use mindfulness meditation to increase their impulse control and help them manage their time. Family or marital counseling can be beneficial for those suffering from ADHD because it helps them develop how to communicate and problem-solve which can help them cope with their issues at home and at work.
Additionally, many people who suffer from ADHD can lessen their symptoms by following a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and exercise, and cutting down on alcohol and junk food. It is also beneficial to ask for assistance from family and friends, enroll in an organization for support or an ADHD Coach training program which can teach them techniques and strategies for managing their symptoms. Individuals who are diagnosed with ADHD should see their GP regularly for medication checkups to help them understand how their treatment is working and to deal with any side consequences. Doctors can refer patients with ADHD for further evaluation or a diagnosis to a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist.