ADHD Assessments
There is currently no one test that can be used to determine if one has ADHD. Instead, experts employ various tools to solicit information about and evaluate a person's symptoms.
These include standardized clinical interviewing and rating scales, observational ratings and a number of psychometric/neuropsychological tests (including intelligence testing). They are an essential element of the comprehensive assessment process that is required to screen, evaluate the condition, diagnose and monitor treatment.
Assessment Process
Most ADHD assessments require a thorough interview between the assessor and the person being assessed. The evaluation is performed by a specialist such as a doctor, psychologist, or clinical social worker. The clinician will ask the patient about their past and current symptoms. Many evaluators use standardized behavior rating scales. These tests are based on research comparing the behavior of those with ADHD and those without. They aren't diagnostic by themselves, but they add important objective data to the evaluation. These include the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale and the Teacher-Parent Report Form from the Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC). Adults can be evaluated using an established ADHD rating scale, such as the Wender Utah Rating Scale. The doctor will employ an assessment of behavior for adults and children. This will help to identify other conditions that can occur alongside ADHD. These include oppositional disorder, conduct disorder anxiety, depression, and apathy.
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 surroundings and family. The examiner may inquire whether the person's parents, or other relatives have ADHD and what symptoms they had.
These tests can be very beneficial to the person who is evaluating, especially if the diagnosis is uncertain. However they aren't able to provide the use as the sole method for making an ADHD diagnosis because of problems with their sensitivity and specificity. They don't take into account the complexities of everyday 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. The results are useful only to identify certain kinds of brain injuries or illnesses. They do not accurately represent how the brain functions in everyday situations like school, work and relationships.
To get a more precise diagnosis, it is best to consult a specialist in mental health who is skilled in the assessment and treatment of ADHD. A referral from a therapist or doctor is the best method to locate an expert.
Symptoms
People with ADHD are unable to focus and retaining self-control. This can cause problems at work, school or in relationships. It is also difficult to cope with everyday frustrations. Untreated ADHD symptoms can cause grave consequences, such as loss of employment, broken friendships and many other negative outcomes.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD an individual must exhibit symptoms that last throughout their childhood and adolescence. These symptoms must also interfere in their ability to function normally, and must be present prior to the age of 12.
more.. and impulsivity are among the most common symptoms of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms may include difficulties staying focused, forgetting important information, or having difficulty remembering. One may also be lacking organizational skills, or have trouble following directions and keeping track several tasks at a time.
Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms include fidgeting, being unable to sit still, having excess energy, and being talkative. This kind of ADHD can also cause someone to struggle with waiting for their turn or interrupting others.
These symptoms are often present in children when they first start school. They may have difficulty in school due to academic demands and become frustrated by their inability to organize or focus. They also may have difficulty in interpersonal relationships due to the fact that they are more likely to emotional outbursts.
These symptoms can last throughout adulthood, causing problems at work or with romantic partners or even with family members. People with untreated ADHD might feel ashamed or blame themselves, assuming they're not smart enough to achieve success or that something is wrong with them. It is important to realize that ADHD does not mean that you are less intelligent or able.
To determine if you have ADHD the primary care doctor or mental health professional will conduct an exhaustive assessment. They will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they affect your life. They will also interview your partner, other family members, and your friends. To determine your symptoms, they will use behavior ratings scales and symptom lists. They will also review your medical history and educational background. They might also recommend you undergo an examination of your body or take psychological tests to rule out any other health issues.
Diagnosis
Your child or you have 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 about ADHD but you don't know what it means. Is your kid just lazy or is there a problem that's easier to treat than? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. You must determine if the issue is due to excessive screen time, inadequate parenting or a medical issue. Your family physician can help determine if an ADHD assessment is appropriate for you.
Typically an ADHD evaluation includes an interview, a examination of symptoms, and the use of checklists and rating scales. Doctors will ask questions regarding the patient's medical history, their development since the age of a child and their professional and academic experiences, driving records, as well as their marital and family history. The doctor will also test for other issues, such as learning disabilities, mood and anxiety disorders.
The person who is being evaluated must be able to discuss the issues in a candid and honest manner. It's important to not be hesitant due to embarrassment or fear of criticism. This will assist the examiner determine how ADHD symptoms affect everyday life and help to suggest treatment options.
For a diagnosis of ADHD to be made there must be a variety of signs that must have appeared before the age of 12 and must have been "impairing" at least in two main environments, such as school or at home. It's more than just being forgetful or having trouble keeping up with assignments; it's getting fired from a job due to tardiness, failing to complete an assignment on time, or causing conflict and distress in a relationship.
Many doctors will speak with the patient as well as the loved ones (spouse, sibling or parent for children) and may seek feedback from those who spend an extended period of time with the patient -- such as a nanny, coach or a religious leader. This kind of personal insight often provides information that cannot be obtained from questionnaires. Psychiatrists also perform a physical exam and laboratory tests such as urine and blood tests to rule out other possible causes.
Treatment
A health professional can conduct an ADHD evaluation to determine if there's a root reason, such as a mood disorder or another physical condition that triggers similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation involves examining the patient's mental and medical histories, analyzing their past and current behavior and school performance. It also involves contacting family as well as teachers and other caregivers in order to gather an accurate picture of the person’s functioning in different situations.
People suffering from ADHD typically benefit from a combination of treatments, according to Dr. Frank. Certain people are prescribed medications to improve focus and concentration, and decrease the impulsiveness. These include stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall or non-stimulant drugs which take longer time to effect results, but they can improve attention skills such as Intuniv and Clonidine.
Behavioral therapy is also part of the majority of treatment plans, particularly for children. Therapists can teach them ways to organize their lives to help them keep track of things or mindfulness meditation to help improve their control of their impulses and manage their time. Marriage or family counseling is an excellent option for adults with ADHD. It helps them learn problem-solving and communication skills that can help them deal with their difficulties at home and work.
Many people who suffer from ADHD will also find they can reduce their symptoms if they consume well balanced meals, have enough sleep, exercise and cut down on the consumption of alcohol and junk food. It is also beneficial to ask for support from your family and friends, enroll in an organization for support or an ADHD Coach training course that can provide them with strategies and tools to manage their symptoms. People who are diagnosed with ADHD should see their GP regularly for medication checkups, to help them understand the effectiveness of their treatment and to address any adverse negative effects. Doctors can also refer patients with ADHD to an psychologist or psychiatrist for further evaluation and diagnosis.