ADHD Assessments
There is no one test that can determine if a person has ADHD. Specialists use a variety of tools to collect information and study 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, diagnose and monitor treatments.
Assessment Process
The majority of ADHD assessments involve a detailed interview between the evaluator and the person who is being assessed. The evaluation is performed by a specialist such as a doctor psychologist or clinical social worker. The clinician will ask the patient to describe their history and current symptoms. Many evaluators use standardized behavior rating scales. These tests are based on research comparing behaviors of people with and without ADHD. They are not diagnostic in their own right however they provide important, objective information to the assessment. 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 like the Wender Utah Rating Scale may be used. The clinician will use a behavioral check-list for both adults and children. This will help to identify other conditions that can occur alongside ADHD. These include conduct disorder, oppositional disorder anxiety, depression, and apathy.
The evaluator will also examine the person's history and current medications. The clinician will also go through medical records and gather background information on the person's surroundings and family. The evaluator may ask whether the person's parents, or other relatives, have ADHD and what signs they experienced.
Neuropsychological and psychometric tests can provide valuable information to aid the evaluator in determining ADHD, especially when there is some uncertainty regarding the diagnosis. However these tests are not of much utility as the primary instrument for determining an ADHD diagnosis due to issues with their sensitivity and accuracy. They don't accurately reflect the variety of situations that adults face.
A more recent test known as SPECT brain scanning provides useful information about how the brain functions for just a few minutes. However the results are useful in diagnosing certain types of injuries and illnesses that affect the brain. They do not accurately reflect how the brain functions in everyday situations, such as working, school, and in relationships.
For a more accurate diagnosis, it is best to consult an expert in mental health who is experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. The best method to locate such a person is through the recommendation of the doctor, therapist or any other professional.
Signs and symptoms
People suffering from ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused and controlling their emotions. This can cause problems at school, work or in personal relationships. It also makes it difficult to handle daily frustrations in a healthy way. If not treated, ADHD symptoms may cause severe consequences like job loss, friendships broken and many other negative outcomes.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, a person must be suffering from symptoms that persist throughout childhood and adolescence. These symptoms should also affect their ability to function in everyday life, and they must have been present prior to age 12 years old.
The most common symptoms of ADHD are inattention and impulsivity. Inattentive symptoms can include difficulty staying on task, forgetting important information, or having trouble remembering. The person could also display inadequate organizational skills or experience difficulties following directions and keeping track of multiple tasks at once.
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 be unable to wait their turn or interrupting other people.
These signs are typically seen in children at the time they start school. They may struggle in school because of academic demands and can get frustrated by their inability to focus or organization skills. They may also struggle in interpersonal relationships due to their tendency to rage.
These symptoms can last throughout adulthood, causing problems at work or with romantic partners or even with family members. People with untreated ADHD may feel shame or blame themselves, assuming they're not smart enough to succeed or that something is wrong with them. It is important to realize that ADHD doesn't mean you aren't smarter or able.
Your primary care physician or a mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the presence of ADHD. They will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they have on your daily life. They will also interview you along with your partner, as well as other family members and friends. They will use scales for assessing behavior and symptom checklists in order to determine your symptoms. They will also examine your medical history and educational background. They may also refer to you for a physical exam or psychological tests in order to determine if you have any other medical conditions.
Diagnosis
Your child or you have been struggling in school. It could be due to the often-dreaded "snow day" or perhaps you're anxious about the latest teacher evaluation. You've heard about ADHD but you don't really know what it means. Is your child simply lazy or is she suffering from an issue that is easier to treat than? A thorough diagnosis is essential. It is important to determine whether the issues result from too much screen time, poor parenting or a medical condition. Fortunately, your family physician can help you determine if an ADHD evaluation is right for you.
In general the general case, an ADHD assessment involves an interview, a review of symptoms and the use of scales for rating or checklists. Doctors will inquire about the patient's medical history, their progress since the age of a child and their professional and academic experience, driving records, as well as their marital and family history. The doctor will also test for any other conditions, such as learning disabilities or anxiety and mood disorders.
My Web Page being evaluated should be able to discuss the subject matter openly and honestly. It is important that the person being evaluated does not hide in shame or fearful of criticism. This will help the examiner to comprehend how ADHD symptoms impact daily life and recommend solutions.
To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD the symptoms must be present prior to the age of 12 and must be "impairing" in at least two of the major environments, like home or school. The impairment goes beyond being forgetful or having trouble keeping up with assignments and homework; it's being dismissed from a job for tardiness, failing to complete an assignment on time, or causing conflict and distress in a marriage.
Many doctors will speak with the patient and a loved one (spouse, sibling or parent for children) and may also 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 can reveal information that cannot be obtained through questionnaires. Psychologists will often conduct a physical examination and run tests in the laboratory, like blood and urine testing, to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms.
Treatment
A health professional can conduct an ADHD evaluation to determine if there's a root reason, such as a mood disorder or a physical illness that causes similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation entails examining the patient's mental and medical history, as well as evaluating their past and current behavior as well as their school performance. It also involves contact with family, teachers, and other family members to get complete information about the person's performance in different settings.
Dr. Frank says that people who suffer from ADHD benefit from a combination treatment. Certain medications are prescribed to help improve concentration and focus and reduce impulsiveness. These include as stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall or non-stimulant drugs that take longer to effect but can also improve attention abilities, such as Intuniv or Clonidine.
The majority of treatment plans incorporate the use of behavioral therapy, particularly for children. Therapists can teach them ways to organize their lives to help them keep track of things or mindfulness meditation to improve their impulse control and better manage their time. Counseling for families or marriage is also beneficial for adults with ADHD. It helps them learn the skills of problem-solving and communication which will assist them in dealing with their difficulties at home and at work.
Many people who suffer from ADHD will also discover that they can lessen their symptoms if they consume well balanced meals, have enough sleep, exercise and reduce their intake of the consumption of alcohol and junk food. It may also be helpful to seek support from your family and friends, join a support program or attend an ADHD Coach training program which will teach them tools and tips for managing their symptoms. Anyone diagnosed with ADHD should visit their GP regularly for checkups on their medication to help them understand the effectiveness of their treatment and to deal with any side consequences. The GP can also refer patients with ADHD to a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist for further evaluation and diagnosis.