ADHD Assessments
There isn't a single test that can be used to determine whether one has ADHD. Instead, specialists use various instruments to collect information about and evaluate the symptoms of a person.
These include standardized clinical interviewing and rating scales, observational ratings and a number of psychometric/neuropsychological tests (including intelligence testing). They are a crucial component of the overall assessment process that is required to evaluate, screen the condition, diagnose and monitor treatment.
Assessment Process
Most ADHD assessments require a thorough interview between the assessor and the person being evaluated. The evaluation is performed by a professional like a doctor, psychologist, or clinical social worker. The clinician will inquire about the patient's history and present symptoms. Many evaluators use standardized behavior rating scales. These scales are based on research that compares the behaviors of those with and without ADHD. They aren't diagnostic in themselves however they provide 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). For adults, a standardized ADHD rating scale, such as the Wender Utah Rating Scale may be employed. The doctor will employ the same checklist for behavioral checks for adults and children. This looks for other conditions that are often co-occurring with ADHD for example, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder and anxiety or depression.
The evaluator also will look into the person's history and current medications. The clinician will also go through medical records, and gather background information on the person's environment and family. For example the evaluator might inquire about whether the person's parents or other relatives have had ADHD and what their symptoms were.
These tests can be very helpful to the evaluator particularly if the diagnosis is not clear. However these tests are not of much use as the sole 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 have to face.
A more recent test SPECT brain imaging can provide valuable information on how the brain functions over a the short time. The results are useful only to identify certain kinds of brain injuries or illnesses. They do not accurately reflect how the brain functions in everyday situations, such as working, school, and in relationships.
It is best to consult an expert in mental healthcare who has expertise in the evaluation and management of ADHD. The best method to locate such a person is through a referral from the doctor, therapist or other professional.
Signs and symptoms
People with ADHD are unable to focus and maintaining self-control. This can cause problems at work, school or in relationships. It is also difficult to cope with everyday frustrations. If not treated, ADHD symptoms can lead to severe consequences like loss of employment, broken friendships and many other negative outcomes.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms of a person must last throughout childhood and adolescence. These symptoms must also hinder in their ability to function normally, and must be present prior the age of 12.
The most common symptoms of ADHD are impulsivity and inattention. Inattentive symptoms can include difficulty keeping track of the task at hand, ignoring important information, or having trouble remembering. A person may also show poor organization skills or have difficulties following instructions and keeping track of many tasks at a 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 might also have difficulty being patient or interrupting other people.
Children are often afflicted with these kinds of ADHD symptoms when they start school. They may struggle in school due to academic demands and then become frustrated due to their inability to organize or concentration. They can also experience difficulty with interpersonal relationships because they are more susceptible to emotional outbursts.
These symptoms can last into adulthood and cause problems at work as well as with romantic partners or even with family members. Untreated ADHD can cause people to feel embarrassed or blame themselves. They might believe that they are not capable of achieving success or that there is something wrong with them. However, it is important to recognize that having ADHD does not mean you're less smart or skilled.
To make a diagnosis of ADHD, your primary care provider or mental health professional will perform an extensive examination. They will ask about your symptoms and the impact they affect your life. They will also interview you as well as your partner and other family members and friends. They will utilize behavior rating scales and symptom checklists to evaluate your symptoms. They will also go over your medical history and your education. They might also refer you for an examination of your body or take psychological tests to rule out other conditions.
Diagnosis
Your child or you have been struggling in school. It could be the dreaded "snow day" or perhaps you're worried about the most recent teacher evaluation. You've heard of ADHD but don't know what it means. Is your child just lazy or does she have an issue that is easier to treat than solve? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. You must determine if the problem is the result of excessive screen time, bad parenting, or a medical condition. Your family physician can help determine if an ADHD assessment is the right one for you.
Typically the process of an ADHD evaluation includes an interview, a review of symptoms and the use of checklists and scales for rating. Doctors will ask about the person's past health, development going back to childhood as well as work and academic experience as well as driving history, marital and family relationships. The doctor will also look for other issues, such as mood and anxiety disorders.
The person who is being evaluated must be able to talk about the issues in a candid and honest manner. It is crucial that the person being evaluated doesn't hide from embarrassment or fearful of criticism. This will assist the examiner to understand how ADHD affects daily life and recommend treatments.
To be able to make a diagnosis of ADHD to be confirmed there must be a variety of signs that must have been present prior to age of 12 and be "impairing" at least in two important situations like home or school. The impairment goes beyond being a bit forgetful or having difficulty staying on task; it's getting fired from a job for tardiness, failing to finish an assignment on time, or causing conflict and stress in a marriage.
Many doctors interview both the patient and loved ones, such as a spouse or sibling. They may also request opinions from those who spend a lot of time with patients such as an nanny or coach. This kind of personal information often provides information that cannot be gleaned from questionnaires. Psychologists also conduct physical examinations and lab tests such as urine and blood tests 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 mood disorder or another physical issue that causes similar symptoms. A thorough assessment involves looking over the patient's mental and medical history, as well as evaluating their past and current behavior and school performance. gp adhd assessment involves calling family members teachers, parents, and other caregivers in order to get an accurate picture of the person's performance in different situations.
Dr. Frank says that people with ADHD benefit from a combination treatment. Some are prescribed medications to help improve concentration and focus, and decrease impulsiveness, such as stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall or non-stimulant drugs that take longer to work but may also help improve attention abilities like Intuniv or Clonidine.
Behavioral therapy is also a part of many treatment plans, particularly for children. For instance, a therapy therapist could teach them methods of organization to help them to organize their things or even practice mindfulness meditation to improve their impulse control and help them manage their time. Marriage or family counseling is also beneficial for adults with ADHD. It helps them learn the skills of problem-solving and communication that can help them deal with their issues at home and at work.
In addition, many people with ADHD can lessen their symptoms by eating a balanced diet, getting enough rest and exercising, and cutting down on alcohol consumption and junk food. It can also be beneficial to seek support from family and friends, join an organization for support or an ADHD Coach training program which can provide them with tools and tips for managing their symptoms. People who are diagnosed with ADHD should visit their GP regularly for regular medication checkups, to help them know how their treatment is working and to deal with any side negative effects. GPs may refer people with ADHD for additional evaluation or for a diagnosis to a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist.