ADHD Assessment - Getting a Diagnosis
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD) is a complex condition. It can be classified into three subtypes and the symptoms may vary. It can also be confused with physical conditions as well as other mental disorders.
For that reason, getting an accurate ADHD assessment is essential. Your doctor or therapist will need to fill out questionnaires, speak with you and your family members, and look at any relevant documents.
Symptoms
A health care provider will examine the patient's behavior or, in the case of adults their school and childhood experiences. They will also take into account the person's mental health, physical history, mood, and family and lifestyle issues. They might also speak with people who know the person well such as parents, family members and teachers, to gather information on their relationship with the person as well as how their symptoms impact their lives.
To qualify for a diagnosis, the patient must exhibit symptoms in at least two situations, such as at home, school and work, and they must cause problems in everyday life. The symptoms must have been present at minimum for six months. They must also be not appropriate for the person's development level. For kids, the symptom must have begun before the age of 12. In addition, they shouldn't be caused by another disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
The most common sign of ADHD is inattention, which indicates that the person is having trouble staying on task or keeping their mind focused. They can also lose things frequently, miss appointments, or make careless errors at school or work. They could spend a lot of time snoozing and have difficulty finishing their work and often forget homework or assignments.
Hyperactivity-impulsivity, the other main symptom of ADHD, causes the person to move about excessively, even when it's not appropriate, or to fidget, tap or talk. They may disrupt others, make quick decisions without considering consequences, and are unable to wait for their turn.
A medical professional will also look for signs of other ailments such as anxiety, sleep disorders, or depression. The provider will also ask about the patient's family history and give them a series tests to measure their ability focus, think quickly and stay organized.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, or ADD as it was previously known, a health professional must conduct an assessment. This will comprise a thorough description and rating scales completed both by the person and their caregivers. It may also contain medical history of the family, records of work and school, and other relevant information. A physical examination could be required of the individual who is being assessed. A medical exam is necessary to rule out other ailments or diseases that could cause symptoms similar to those associated with ADHD, such as hearing issues, brain tumors, vision issues and thyroid disorders, depression and head injuries.
In certain situations the psychiatric examination may be required in addition to a medical exam. In these cases the evaluator will talk to the patient as well as other significant people in their life -- for example, spouses, parents, siblings for children teachers, coaches and teachers for adults -about their experiences and observations about the person's behavior. These interviews can provide valuable information about what's happening to the person and whether tests are required to determine if they have ADHD.
The process of seeking an assessment can feel overwhelming, particularly for those who are concerned that they might not have ADHD and may be labeled as having a condition which could harm their career or personal relationships. Asking friends, family members and coworkers to recommend a professional with experience in ADHD assessments can be helpful. You should also check with your insurance company to find out which specialists are covered and how much the assessment will cost.
Treatment
Treatment for ADHD can help you manage symptoms that cause problems at school or work or in your relationships or in your personal. The first step is to obtain a diagnosis. The most important step in this process is to find a health care professional who is qualified to assess your symptoms. You can ask your doctor or therapist for a recommendation, or contact the local chapter of a national mental health organization to find a list of specialists in your area. Some insurance plans also provide a list of approved health care providers by specialty. If you attend a support group for those with ADHD you may discover that many of the participants have worked with particular professionals and can provide suggestions.
In addition to examining your family and medical history, a health specialist who assesses ADHD symptoms will likely require you to fill out several standardized ratings scales and questionnaires regarding the behavior you've been experiencing. These ratings are based on research that compares the behaviors of people with ADHD with those who do not suffer from it.
If you meet the criteria of ADD, your doctor may recommend you to a specialist for further testing to rule out other physical or psychiatric disorders. For example, some individuals with ADHD suffer from depression, sleep disorders, or other mood disorders, or problems that make it difficult for them to learn reading and writing. These conditions can cause similar symptoms to those afflicted by ADHD, and it is important to identify them in order to treat them effectively.
When your symptoms are recognized, your doctor can prescribe medication or psychotherapy. Behavioral therapy can teach you to observe your own behaviors, and change them when necessary. Cognitive behavioral therapy can improve the ability to manage your emotions and think. adhd diagnosis assessment can aid you in improving your interpersonal relationships and resolve problems in your marriage or with your family.
Medication
There are a variety of drugs that can be used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine work by helping boost and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are usually the first drugs prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications are available as immediate-release pills or modified release tablets, which deliver an exact dose throughout the day. The effectiveness of these drugs varies among individuals and it can take some time to locate the right dosage and medication that works for you or your child.
Initial treatment plans will include a regular examination of side-effects and symptoms. The doctor will adjust medications as needed. Behavioral therapy is often recommended for ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy for adults. Other therapies can aid those suffering from ADHD. These include mindfulness meditation and yoga.
All medications can have adverse effects. It is important to discuss any concerns with your physician. It is also crucial to inform your doctor about any other medications you or your child is taking including prescription and over-the-counter. Certain medications interact with stimulant drugs and can result in dangerous side effects.
For many people with ADHD finding the right dosage and medication will take time and patience. Discuss all options with your physician and follow the instructions for how to take the medication. Inform your doctor of any modifications to your diet, as certain foods can affect the way that the medication is absorbed. In addition, some young people who are taking stimulant medication may experience minor growth delay and an increase in blood pressure or heart rate.
Therapy
If a child or adult receives a diagnosis of ADHD or ADD, their healthcare provider will work with them to create an individualized treatment plan that incorporates medication and therapy. They will help you determine the right dosage and will monitor the reaction of your child or yourself to the medication.
There are a variety of medication available to treat ADHD. The most commonly used are psychostimulants, which affect brain neurotransmitters and may help boost energy, improve focus and alertness. Amphetamines, like Adderall, and methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta are examples. These include antidepressants like Wellbutrin, Effexor and Viloxazine. Non-stimulant medications, which don't affect neurotransmitters, are prescribed to people with inattentive ADHD. They include Strattera, Qelbree, and Intuniv.
Therapy will help you learn to manage your symptoms and alter your behaviors. Your therapist will help you develop time management strategies and teach you how to organize yourself. They will help you learn to manage your emotions, and help you build positive relationships. They may also recommend counseling for your family or marriage, or classes to improve communication.
Disorganization is a common ADHD sign. It can make it difficult to stay organized or finish tasks at home or work. You may find it difficult to remember deadlines or appointments. You may also lose important documents and find it difficult to keep your workspace neat and clean. Behavioral therapy may include skills training to calm your mind, improve your sleep quality and develop coping skills.
Many adults with ADD/ADHD find it difficult to go to sleep at night and are often woken up by frantic thoughts or restless sleep. They have trouble following an agenda and tend to procrastinate. This results in unfinished projects or tasks that are not completed. Behavioral therapy can help you to be more disciplined, improve your ability to prioritize tasks and reduce the amount of nicotine and caffeine in your diet.