ADHD Assessments
There isn't a single test that can be used to determine if one has ADHD. Instead, specialists use a variety of tools to solicit information about and evaluate a person's symptoms.
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 that is required to screen, assess, diagnose and monitor treatment.
Assessment Process
Most ADHD assessments involve a thorough interview with the person being evaluated. A professional such as a psychologist, doctor or clinical social worker will conduct the assessment. The clinician will ask about the patient's history and present symptoms. Many evaluators use standardized behavior rating scales. These questionnaires are based upon research comparing the behaviors of people with ADHD and those who don't. They are not considered diagnostic in themselves but they do provide information that can be used to evaluate. The Vanderbilt Assessment Scale, the Teacher-Parent report form of Behavior Assessment System for Children and the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale are all examples. For adults, a standard ADHD rating scale such as the Wender Utah Rating Scale may be employed. The clinician will use the same checklist for behavioral checks for adults and children. This looks for other conditions that may co-occur with ADHD like conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder and anxiety or depression.
The evaluator also examines the person's previous and current medications. The clinician will also review medical records, and gather information about the person's surroundings and family. For example the evaluator would inquire whether the person's parents or other relatives have ADHD and what the symptoms they experienced were like.
These tests can be very beneficial to the person who is evaluating, especially if the diagnosis isn't clear. However they aren't able to provide the effectiveness as the main tool for making an ADHD diagnosis due to issues with their sensitivity and specificity. They don't accurately reflect the complexities of everyday adult life.
A more recent test known as SPECT brain scanning can provide valuable data on how the brain functions for a short period of time. The results are useful only for diagnosing certain kinds of brain injuries and illnesses. They do not accurately reflect how the brain performs in everyday situations, such as school, work and relationships.
It is best to consult an expert in mental health who is experienced in the evaluation and management of ADHD. The best method to locate this type of person is via the recommendation of an therapist, doctor or any other professional.
Signs and symptoms
People suffering from ADHD often have trouble staying focused and managing their emotions. This can cause problems at school, at work or in relationships. It can also make it difficult to deal with everyday frustrations in a healthy way. Because of this that untreated ADHD symptoms could lead to job loss, broken friendships, and other serious consequences.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms of a person must persist through childhood and adolescence. These symptoms should also affect their ability to function in everyday life, and have been present prior to age 12 years old.
Inattention and impulsivity are the most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD. Inattention symptoms include difficulty keeping track of the task at hand, missing important information, and having difficulty remembering things. One may also be lacking organizational skills, or have trouble following directions and keeping track of 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 might also have difficulty being patient or interrupting others.
These signs are typically seen in children as they start school. They may struggle in school due to academic demands and become frustrated by their lack of organization or concentration. They may also have issues with interpersonal relationships since they are more susceptible to emotional outbursts.
These symptoms can persist into adulthood, causing difficulties at work as well as in romantic relationships and even with family members. Untreated ADHD can cause people to feel ashamed or blame themselves. assess adhd may think they're not smart enough to be successful or that there's something wrong with them. However, it is important to recognize that having ADHD does not mean you're less intelligent or capable.
Your primary care physician or an expert in mental health will conduct a thorough assessment to determine if you suffer from ADHD. They will ask you questions about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also interview you along with your partner, as well as other family members and friends. To evaluate your symptoms, they'll utilize scales of behavior ratings and symptom lists. They will also review the medical history and your education. They might also refer you for an examination of your body or take psychological tests to rule out any other ailments.
Diagnosis
You or your child is struggling at school. You might be concerned about the ever-present snow day or even the most recent teacher evaluation. You've heard of ADHD but you don't know what it means. Is your child just lazy or is there a problem that's simpler to treat than to solve? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. You need to determine if the issue is due to excessive screen time, poor parenting or a medical issue. Your family doctor can assist you to determine if an ADHD assessment is appropriate for you.
In general the majority of cases, an ADHD assessment involves an interview, a review of symptoms and the use of rating scales or checklists. Doctors will ask about the patient's history of health, development going back to childhood academic and work experiences, driving history and family and marital relationships. The examiner will check for other issues, such as learning disabilities and anxiety and mood disorders.
The person being evaluated should be able to discuss the issues openly and honestly. It is important that the person being analyzed does not hide behind embarrassment, or because of fear of criticism. This will help the examiner understand how the ADHD symptoms impact daily life and provide treatment options.
To be able to receive a diagnosis of ADHD there must be a number of symptoms that be present prior to the age of 12 and must be "impairing" in at least two major settings such as school or at home. It's not just about being forgetful or struggling to complete assignments. It could also be a result of getting fired from a work for tardiness or inability to complete a task on time, or causing tension and conflict in the relationship.
Many doctors will speak with the patient along with the loved ones (spouse sibling, parent or spouse for children) and may solicit feedback from those who spend long periods of time with the patientfor example, an nanny, coach, or a religious leader. This kind of personal insight often uncovers information that can't be obtained from questionnaires. Psychiatrists also perform a physical exam and laboratory tests such as urine and blood tests to rule out other possible causes.
Treatment
A doctor may conduct an ADHD assessment to determine if there is an underlying cause, such as a mental condition or another physical condition that causes similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation entails examining the person's medical and mental histories, evaluating their behavior in the past and present and school performance. It also includes calling family members teachers, parents, and other family members to obtain an accurate picture of the person's behavior in various situations.
Dr. Frank says that people with ADHD benefit from a combination treatment. Certain medications are prescribed 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 can also improve attention skills like Intuniv and Clonidine.
The majority of treatment plans include behavior therapy, particularly those for children. The therapist may teach them strategies for organizing to help them keep on top of things or to practice mindfulness meditation to help improve their ability to control their impulses and manage their time. Marriage or family counseling is also beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD. It helps them develop problem-solving and communication skills which will assist them in dealing with their difficulties at home and work.
In addition, many with ADHD can manage their symptoms by eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and exercise, and cutting down on alcohol consumption and junk food. They may also find it beneficial to seek help from friends and family or join a support group or participate in an ADHD coach training program that will teach them tips and tools to manage their symptoms. People who are diagnosed with ADHD should visit their GP regularly for checkups on their medication to help them know how their treatment is working and to deal with any side consequences. The GP can refer patients suffering from ADHD for further evaluation or diagnosis to a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist.