ADHD Assessments
There is currently no one test that can be used to determine if one has ADHD. Specialists employ a variety of tools to gather data and observe 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 important element of the comprehensive assessment process, which is needed to evaluate, screen the condition, diagnose and monitor treatment.
Assessment Process
Most ADHD tests involve a thorough interview between the assessor and the person who is being evaluated. The evaluation is performed by a clinician, like a doctor, psychologist, or clinical social worker. The doctor will ask the patient to describe their history and current symptoms. Many evaluators use standardized behavior rating scales. These scales are based on research comparing the behavior of people with and without ADHD. They aren't diagnostic in their own right, but they add important objective data to the evaluation. They include the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale and the Teacher-Parent Report Form of the Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC). Adults can be evaluated using a standard ADHD rating scale like the Wender Utah Rating Scale. For both children and adults the doctor will also utilize a behavioral checklist. This will help to identify other conditions which often occur in conjunction with ADHD. These include conduct disorder, oppositional disorder anxiety, depression, and apathy.
The evaluator will also examine the person's medical history and current medications. In addition, the clinician will review medical records and gather background details about the person's family and environment. For example, the evaluator will ask about whether the person's parents or other relatives have ADHD and what their symptoms were like.
These tests can be very helpful to the evaluator particularly if the diagnosis is not clear. These tests are not useful as the primary tool to determine ADHD because of their insensitivity and specificity. Additionally, they aren't able to accurately reflect the complexity of situations that an adult faces in daily life.
A more recent test SPECT brain imaging gives valuable information about how the brain functions over a the short time. However the results are only useful for diagnosing certain kinds of illnesses and injuries that affect the brain. They do not accurately represent how the brain operates in everyday life like working, school and relationships.
To make a more precise diagnosis, it is recommended to have an expert in mental health who is experienced in the evaluation and treatment of ADHD. The best way to find this type of person is via an appointment with the doctor, therapist or other professional.
Symptoms
People suffering from ADHD often have trouble staying focused and controlling their emotions. This can lead to problems at work, school or in relationships. It can also make it difficult to handle everyday frustrations in a healthy way. If not treated, ADHD symptoms could lead to grave consequences, such as loss of employment, broken friendships and other negative consequences.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD the person must be suffering from symptoms that persist throughout their childhood and adolescence. These symptoms should also be a hindrance in their ability to function normally, and must have been present prior to age 12.
Inattention and impulsivity are the most common symptoms of ADHD. Inattention-related symptoms include difficulty staying focused, ignoring important information, and having trouble remembering things. The person could also display poor organization skills or have difficulty following directions and focusing on several 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 other people.
These signs are typically seen in children as they begin school. They may struggle in school due to the demands of academics and then become frustrated due to their inability to organize or concentration. They may also have issues in interpersonal relationships due to their tendency to emotional outbursts.
These symptoms can persist throughout adulthood, which can lead to difficulties at work and in romantic relationships and with family members. Individuals with untreated ADHD might feel ashamed or blame themselves, assuming they're not smart enough to succeed or there's something wrong with them. It's important to recognize that ADHD does not mean that you aren't smarter or capable.
Your primary care physician or an expert in mental health will conduct a thorough examination to determine the presence of ADHD. They will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also interview you as well as your partner and other family members and friends. To assess your symptoms, they'll utilize scales of behavior ratings and lists of symptoms. They will also review your medical history and your education. They may also refer to you for a physical examination or psychological tests in order to determine if you have any other medical conditions.
Diagnosis
You or your child is struggling at school. It could be because of the dreaded "snow day" or perhaps you're worried about the latest teacher evaluation. You've heard about ADHD but don't really know what it means. Is your child simply lazy or does she have an issue that is easier to treat than solve? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. It is important to determine if the problems are the result of too much screen time, bad parenting, or a medical condition. Fortunately, your family doctor can help you determine if an ADHD assessment is the right one for you.
Generally the process of an ADHD assessment involves an interview, review of symptoms and use of checklists and rating scales. Doctors will ask about the patient's history of health, their development back to childhood academic and work experiences and driving history as well as marriage and family relations. adhd assessment scotland I Am Psychiatry will also look for any other conditions, such as learning disabilities or anxiety and mood disorders.
The person who is being evaluated must be able to talk about the problems openly and honestly. It's important to not be hesitant due to shame or fear of criticism. This will allow the examiner understand how ADHD symptoms affect everyday life and recommend treatments.
To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD the symptoms must be present prior to the age of 12 and be "impairing" in at least two of the major settings such as home or school. Impairment is more than being forgetful or having trouble keeping up with assignments or being fired from a job due to tardiness, failing to finish the task on time or causing tension and discord in a marriage.
Many doctors will speak with the patient and the loved ones (spouse, sibling or parent for children) and may also ask for feedback from people who spend a lot of time with the patientlike an nanny, coach, or religious leader. This kind of personal information often uncovers information that can't be obtained from questionnaires. Psychiatrists also perform 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 assessment to determine if there is a root reason, such as a mood illness or another physical condition causing similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation involves examining the patient's mental and medical background, analyzing past and present behavior and school performance, and contacting teachers, family members and other caregivers to get a more complete picture of how the person operates in various environments.
People suffering from ADHD typically benefit from a combination of treatments, according to 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 medications that take longer to effect but also help improve attention skills like Intuniv and Clonidine.
Behavioral therapy is a part of many treatment plans, particularly for children. For instance, a therapy therapist could teach them organizational strategies to make it easier for them to keep track of their things or even use mindfulness meditation to improve impulse control and help them better manage their time. Counseling for families or marriage is also beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD. It helps them learn problem-solving and communication skills that will help them cope with their issues at home and at work.
Many people with ADHD will also find that they can lessen their symptoms by eating well balanced meals, have enough sleep, exercise and cut down on junk food and alcohol. They may also find it beneficial to seek out support from family and friends or join a support organization or take part in an ADHD coach training program that will provide them with tips and tools for managing their symptoms. People who are diagnosed with ADHD must visit their GP regularly for medication checkups, to help them to understand how their treatment is working and to deal with any side effects. GPs can also refer people who suffer from ADHD to an psychologist or psychiatrist to further evaluate and diagnose.