ADHD Assessments
There is currently no one test that can be used to determine whether an individual suffers from ADHD. Instead, specialists use various tools to gather information about and evaluate the symptoms of a person.
These include standardized clinical interviewing and rating scales, observational ratings and a number of psychometric/neuropsychological tests (including intelligence testing). They are an important part of the comprehensive assessment process, which is needed to screen, assess the patient, and monitor treatment.
Assessment Process
Most ADHD assessments involve a detailed interview between the evaluator and the person who is being assessed. This is done by a professional such as a doctor, psychologist or clinical social worker. The clinician will inquire with the person about their history and current symptoms. Many evaluators use standardized behavior ratings scales. These tests are based on research comparing the behavior of people suffering from ADHD and those without. They aren't diagnostic by themselves but they do provide information that can be used to evaluate. 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 employed. The doctor will employ a behavioral check-list for both adults and children. This is to check for other conditions that may co-occur along with ADHD. These include conduct disorder, oppositional disorder, anxiety, and depression.
The evaluator will also look at the person's history and current medications. The doctor will also look over medical records and gather background information on the person's family and environment. The examiner may inquire if the person's parents, or any other relatives, have ADHD and what signs they experienced.
Neuropsychological and psychometric tests can provide important information to assist the evaluator in diagnosing ADHD particularly when there is a degree of uncertainty about the diagnosis. However, these tests have limited use as the sole instrument for determining an ADHD diagnosis due to problems with their sensitivity and specificity. They don't take into account the variety of adult life.
A more recent test called SPECT brain scans provide useful information on how the brain functions for just a few minutes. However, the results are only useful in diagnosing certain types of injuries and illnesses that affect the brain. They do not accurately reflect how the brain functions in everyday situations like school, at work and in relationships.
It is recommended to speak with an expert in mental health who is experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. A referral from a doctor or therapist is the best way to locate such an individual.
Symptoms
People with ADHD have difficulty staying focused and maintaining self-control. This can cause issues at school, at work, or in relationships. It also makes it difficult to manage everyday frustrations in a healthy way. Untreated ADHD symptoms could result in grave consequences, such as job loss, friendships broken and many other negative outcomes.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD the person must have symptoms that persist throughout childhood and adolescence. These symptoms must also interfere in their ability to function normally and be present prior the age of 12.
Inattention and impulsivity are among the most frequent symptoms of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms include difficulty staying on task, missing important information, and having trouble remembering things. One may also be lacking organizational skills, or have difficulty staying on track and following directions. several tasks at a time.
Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms include fidgeting, being unable to sit still, having excess energy, and being talkative. A person with this type of ADHD might also have difficulty being patient or interrupting others.
These signs are typically seen in children at the time they begin school. They can struggle in class because of academic demands and may become frustrated with their lack of focus or organization abilities. They also may have difficulty in interpersonal relationships due to the fact that they are more likely to emotional outbursts.
These symptoms can last into adulthood and cause issues at work or with romantic partners or even with family members. Individuals with untreated ADHD may feel shame or blame themselves, believing they're not smart enough to achieve success or that something is wrong with them. However, it is important to realize that having ADHD does not mean you're less intelligent or capable.
Your primary care physician or a mental health professional will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if you suffer from ADHD. They will ask you about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also interview your spouse, other family members, and even your family members. They will use behavior rating scales and symptom checklists in order to determine your symptoms. They will also examine your medical history and education. They might also refer you for a physical examination or psychological tests in order to eliminate any other health issues.
Diagnosis
You or your child has struggled in school. It could be the often-dreaded "snow day" or maybe you're concerned about the most recent teacher evaluation. You've heard of ADHD but aren't sure what it means. Is your child lazy, or does she have a problem that is easier to be to treat than solve? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. You need to determine if the problem is due to excessive screen time, inadequate parenting or a medical condition. Fortunately, how to get an assessment for adhd can help you decide if an ADHD assessment is right for you.
In general, an ADHD assessment consists of an interview, a review of symptoms, and the use of rating scales or checklists. Doctors will ask about the person's history of health, development going back to childhood, academic and work experience and driving history as well as marriage and family relations. The examiner will also look for any other conditions, such as learning disabilities or mood and anxiety disorders.
The person being evaluated should be able to discuss the issues in a candid and honest manner. It is essential that the person being evaluated does not hide behind embarrassment, or out of fear of being judged. This will assist the examiner understand how ADHD affects daily life and offer treatments.
To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD there must be a number of symptoms that be present prior to age 12 and must be "impairing" in at least two of the major settings such as school or at home. It's more than just being a bit forgetful or having difficulty staying on task; it's getting fired from a job for tardiness, failing to finish the task on time or causing conflict and distress in a relationship.
Many doctors will interview the patient and a loved one (spouse, sibling or parent for children) and may seek feedback from those who spend long periods of time with the patient -like a coach, nanny or a religious leader. This kind of personal insight often uncovers information that can't be gleaned from questionnaires. Psychiatrists also conduct a physical exam and laboratory tests such as blood and urinary testing to rule out other possible causes.
Treatment
A doctor can do an ADHD assessment to determine if there's a root reason, such as an anxiety disorder or another physical condition that causes similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation entails examining the patient's mental and medical histories, evaluating their past and current behavior, and their school performance. It also involves calling family members as well as teachers and other family members to get an accurate picture of the person's behavior in various environments.
Dr. Frank says that people who suffer from ADHD benefit from a combination treatment. Certain medications are prescribed to improve focus and concentration and reduce impulsiveness. These include as stimulants such as Ritalin or Adderall or non-stimulant drugs which take longer to work but can also improve attention skills like Intuniv or Clonidine.
Behavioral therapy is a part of many treatment plans, particularly for children. The therapist may teach them organization strategies to assist them in keeping the track of their activities or practice mindfulness meditation to improve their control of their impulses and manage their time. Counseling for families or marriage is an excellent option for adults with ADHD. It helps them learn problem-solving and communication skills that will help them cope with their difficulties at home and work.
Many people who suffer from ADHD will also find they can reduce their symptoms if they consume an appropriate diet, get enough sleep and exercise, as well as reduce their intake of the consumption of alcohol and junk food. It may also be helpful to seek out support from family and friends, enroll in an organization for support or an ADHD Coach training program which can teach them strategies and tools to manage their symptoms. Individuals who are diagnosed with ADHD must visit their GP regularly for regular medication checkups, to help them to understand the effectiveness of their treatment and to deal with any side effects. Doctors can also refer patients who suffer from ADHD to an psychologist or psychiatrist to further evaluate and diagnose.