ADHD Assessments
There isn't a single test to determine if someone has ADHD. Instead, specialists use different tools to gather information about and evaluate 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 component of the complete evaluation process required to assess, screen the condition, diagnose and monitor treatment.
Assessment Process
Most ADHD tests include a thorough interview with the person who is being evaluated. The evaluation is performed by a clinician, such as a doctor, psychologist or clinical social worker. The clinician will inquire with the person about their history and present symptoms. A lot of evaluators employ standardized behavior ratings scales. These questionnaires are based on research that compares the behavior of people with and without ADHD. They are not diagnostic by themselves, but add important, objective information to the assessment. These include the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale and the Teacher-Parent Report Form of the Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC). For adults, a standard ADHD rating scale like the Wender Utah Rating Scale may be used. For both adults and children the doctor will also utilize a behavioral checklist. This is used to look for other conditions that can occur in conjunction with ADHD. These include oppositional disorder, conduct disorder, anxiety, and depression.
The evaluator also examines the person's current and past medication. The clinician will also review medical records, and gather background information on the person's surroundings and family. For instance the evaluator would inquire about whether the patient's parents or other relatives have ADHD and what their symptoms were.
Psychometric and neuropsychological tests can provide important 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 also aren't able to accurately reflect the complexity of situations that adults face in everyday life.
A more recent test, SPECT brain imaging, can provide valuable information on how the brain functions during short periods of time. However the results are only useful for diagnosing certain kinds of illnesses and injuries that affect the brain. They don't accurately reflect how the brain operates in everyday life, such as school, work and relationships.
To get a more precise diagnosis, it is best to consult an expert in mental health who has experience in the assessment and treatment of ADHD. A referral from a doctor or therapist is the best way to locate the right person.
Signs and symptoms
People suffering from ADHD are unable to focus and retaining self-control. This can lead to problems at work, school, or in personal relationships. It is also difficult to deal with daily stressors. If left untreated, ADHD symptoms may result in serious consequences such as the loss of a job, friendships broken, and other negative outcomes.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person must have symptoms that persist throughout their 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 common symptoms of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms may include difficulties staying on task, forgetting important information, or having trouble remembering. Someone may also have poor organization skills, or have difficulties following directions and keeping track of several tasks at a time.
Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms include fidgeting, being unable to sit still, having excess energy, and being talkative. The person who suffers from this type of ADHD may also have trouble being patient or interrupting other people.
These symptoms are often present in children as they start school. They may have difficulty in class due to the demands of school, and they can become frustrated by their lack of concentration or organizational skills. They may also have difficulty with interpersonal relationships due their tendency to rage.
These symptoms can last throughout adulthood, which can lead to problems at work as well as in romantic relationships and even with family members. Untreated ADHD can cause people to feel embarrassed or blame themselves. They might believe that they're not smart enough to be successful or that something is wrong with them. It's important to recognize that ADHD does not mean that you aren't smarter or able.
To make a diagnosis of ADHD the primary care physician or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment. They will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they affect your life. They will also interview you as well as your partner and other family members and friends. They will use scales for assessing behavior and symptom checklists to evaluate your symptoms. They will also examine your medical history and education. They may also refer to you for a physical examination or psychological tests in order to eliminate any other health issues.
Diagnosis
Your child or you are struggling at school. You may be worried about the dreaded snow day or the most recent teacher evaluation. You've heard of ADHD but aren't sure what it means. Is your kid just lazy or does she have an issue that is easier to treat than? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. You need to understand if the problems result from too much screen time, inadequate parenting or a medical issue. Fortunately, your family doctor can assist you in determining whether 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, their development back to childhood, academic and work experience, driving history and marital and family relationships. The examiner will check for other disorders, such as mood and anxiety disorders.
The person who is being evaluated must be able to discuss the subject matter openly and honestly. It is important that the person who is being evaluated is not hiding in shame or out of fear of being judged. This will assist the examiner recognize how ADHD symptoms interfere with everyday life and help to suggest treatments.
To be eligible for a diagnosis of ADHD there must be a number of symptoms that have been present before age 12 and be "impairing" in at least two major settings such as school or at home. The impairment goes beyond being unable to remember or struggling to keep up with assignments. It could also be a result of being dismissed from a job for tardiness or inability to complete a task on time, or creating tension and conflict in the relationship.
Many doctors will interview the patient along with the loved ones (spouse, sibling or parent for children) and may solicit feedback from those who spend long periods of time with the patientlike a nanny, coach or religious leader. getting an assessment for adhd of personal information 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 health professional can conduct an ADHD evaluation to determine if there is an underlying cause, such as a mood disorder or another physical illness that causes similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation involves examining the person's medical and mental history, evaluating past and present behavior and school performance, and then contacting family members, teachers and other caregivers to get an overall picture of how the individual operates in various environments.
People suffering from ADHD often benefit from a variety of treatments, according to Dr. Frank. Some people are prescribed medications to improve focus and concentration, and decrease impulsiveness. These include stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall or non-stimulant drugs that take longer to effect results, but they can help improve attention skills like Intuniv and Clonidine.
The majority of treatment plans incorporate the use of behavioral therapy, particularly for children. The therapist might teach them strategies for organizing to assist them in keeping track of things or mindfulness meditation to help improve their impulse control and better manage their time. Family or marital counseling can also be helpful for those suffering from ADHD, as it teaches them how to communicate and problem-solve that will help them deal with their issues at home and at work.
Many people suffering from ADHD will also find they can lessen their symptoms by eating an appropriate diet, get enough rest, exercise and reduce their intake of junk food and drinks. It may also be helpful to seek support from family and friends, join a support program or attend an ADHD Coach training program which can teach them tools and tips for managing their symptoms. getting an assessment for adhd diagnosed with ADHD must visit their GP regularly for checkups on their medication, to help them know how their treatment is working and to address any adverse effects. The GP can refer patients suffering from ADHD for additional evaluation or for a diagnosis to a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist.