ADHD Assessments
Currently there is no single test that can be used to determine whether an individual suffers from ADHD. Instead, experts employ a variety of tools to solicit information and assess 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 a crucial element of the comprehensive assessment process that is required to screen, evaluate the patient, and monitor treatment.
Assessment Process
The majority of ADHD assessments include a detailed interview with the person who is being evaluated. A clinical professional, such as a psychologist medical professional or clinical social worker will conduct the test. The clinician will ask about the patient's history and present symptoms. Many evaluators employ standardized behavior rating scales. These questionnaires are based upon research comparing the behaviors of people with ADHD and those without. They aren't diagnostic by themselves but they do provide objective data to the evaluation. The Vanderbilt Assessment Scale, the Teacher-Parent Report form of the Behavior Assessment System for Children and the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale are all examples. For adults, a standardized ADHD rating scale, such as the Wender Utah Rating Scale may be employed. The clinician will use an assessment of behavior for adults and children. This will check for other disorders that are often co-occurring with ADHD for example, conduct disorder or oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety or depression.
The evaluator also looks at the person's past and current medication. In addition, the therapist will look over medical records and gather information about the person's family and surroundings. The evaluator may ask if the person's parents, or other relatives have ADHD and what signs they experienced.
These tests can be extremely helpful to the evaluator particularly when the diagnosis is uncertain. These tests are not useful as the primary method to diagnose ADHD due to their lack of sensitivity and specificity. They don't accurately reflect the variety of situations that adults have to face.
A more recent test known as SPECT brain scanning provides useful information on how the brain functions for just a few minutes. However, the results are only useful for diagnosing certain kinds of illnesses and injuries that affect the brain. They don't accurately represent how the brain works in everyday situations like at work, school and in relationships.
To get a more precise diagnosis, it is recommended to consult an expert in mental health who is skilled in the assessment and treatment of ADHD. The best way to locate the right person is to get the recommendation of an therapist, doctor or any other professional.
Symptoms
People suffering from ADHD often have trouble staying focused and controlling their emotions. This can cause issues at school, work or in relationships with friends. It also makes it difficult to handle daily stress in a healthy manner. Because of this that untreated ADHD symptoms can result in break-ups, loss of jobs and other serious repercussions.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms of an individual must persist through the adolescent and childhood years. These symptoms must also hinder their ability to function in daily life, and they must have been present before age 12.
The most common symptoms of ADHD are inattention and impulsivity. 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 trouble following directions and keeping track many tasks at the same 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 getting their turn and interrupting other people.
Children are often afflicted with these types of ADHD symptoms as they enter school. They may have a difficult time in school due to the demands of academics and then become frustrated due to their inability to organize or concentration. 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 problems at work, with romantic partners, or even with family members. Untreated ADHD can make people feel embarrassed or blame themselves. They may believe they are not competent enough to succeed or that something is wrong with them. It is important to realize that ADHD does not mean that you are less intelligent or able.
Your primary care provider or a mental health professional will conduct a thorough examination to determine the presence of ADHD. They will ask you questions about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also interview you, your partner, and other family members and friends. They will utilize 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 to a physical examination or take psychological tests to rule out other conditions.
Diagnosis
Your child or you have been struggling at school. You may be worried about the ever-present snow day or the latest teacher evaluation. You've heard of ADHD but aren't sure what it is. Are your children lazy, or does she have an issue that's easier to treat than fix? A thorough diagnosis is essential. You need to understand whether the issues result from too much screen time, poor parenting, or a medical condition. Your family physician can help determine whether an ADHD assessment is appropriate for you.
Typically, an ADHD assessment involves an interview, review of symptoms and use of checklists and scales for rating. Doctors will ask questions regarding the patient's medical background, their growth since childhood as well as their academic and professional experience, driving records, as well as their marital and family history. The doctor will also look for other disorders like learning disabilities, anxiety and mood disorders.
The person who is being evaluated must be able to discuss the issues in a candid and honest manner. It is crucial that the person being analyzed doesn't hide in shame or fearful of criticism. This will help the examiner determine how ADHD symptoms impact daily life and to recommend treatment options.
To be able to receive 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 main settings such as home or school. The impairment goes beyond being a bit forgetful or having difficulty managing assignments; it's getting fired from a job for inattention, not completing an assignment on time, or causing tension and discord in a marriage.
Many doctors will interview both the patient and loved ones, such as a spouse, sibling, or parent. They may also ask for feedback from those who spend a lot of time with the patients such as an nanny or coach. This kind of personal experience will reveal information that can't be obtained through questionnaires. Psychiatrists also conduct physical examinations and lab tests like blood and urinary testing to rule out any other possible causes.
Treatment
A health care provider may perform an ADHD assessment to determine if there is a root cause, such as a mental condition or another physical condition that is causing similar symptoms. A thorough assessment involves looking over the patient's mental and medical history, evaluating past and current behavior and school performance, and then contacting family members, teachers and other caregivers to get an overall picture of how the individual performs in various settings.
gp adhd assessment suffering from ADHD typically benefit from a variety of treatments, says Dr. Frank. Certain people are prescribed medications to increase focus and concentration and reduce impulsiveness. These include stimulants such as Ritalin or Adderall or non-stimulant medicines that take longer time to effect results, but they can enhance attention skills, such as Intuniv and Clonidine.
Behavioral therapy is also part of the majority of treatment plans, especially for children. gp adhd assessment may teach them strategies for organizing to aid them in keeping the track of their activities or practice mindfulness meditation to improve their control of their impulses and manage their time. Marital or family counseling can also be helpful for those suffering from ADHD, as it teaches them the skills of communication and problem-solving that can help them deal with their difficulties at the workplace and at home.
In addition, many with ADHD can lessen their symptoms by following a balanced diet, getting enough rest and exercising, as well as cutting down on alcohol and junk food. It is also beneficial to seek assistance from family and friends, join a support program or attend an ADHD Coach training course that can teach them techniques and strategies for managing their symptoms. Individuals who are diagnosed with ADHD should see their GP regularly for checkups on their medication to ensure they know the effectiveness of their treatment and to address any side effects. The GP can also refer patients who suffer from ADHD to a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist to further evaluate and diagnose.