ADHD Assessment - Getting a Diagnosis
Attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) or ADD is a complicated disorder. It has three sub-types and may present with different symptoms. It can also be confused with physical conditions and other mental disorders.
It is therefore important to get an accurate ADHD diagnosis. Your therapist or physician must complete questionnaires, conduct interviews with you and other people and go over any pertinent documents.
Symptoms
A health professional will examine the patient's behavior or, for adults their school and childhood experiences. They will also look at the person's physical and mental health history, mood and family and lifestyle factors. They may interview people who are familiar with the person such as parents, family members and teachers, to gain information about their relationship with the person as well as how their symptoms impact their lives.
To be eligible for a diagnosis, the person must show symptoms in at least two environments, including at school, home and work, and they must cause disruption in daily life. The symptoms must be present for at minimum six months. The symptoms must have been not appropriate to the individual's developmental level. The symptom must have first appeared in children prior to the age of 12. Lastly, they can't be caused by a disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
The most frequent characteristic of ADHD is inattention, which means the sufferer has difficulty staying focused or keeping their mind focused. They might also frequently lose things, miss appointments, or make careless errors at work or in school. They may spend a lot of time daydreaming or have difficulty finishing tasks.
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 weighing the consequences, and are unable to wait for their turn.
A doctor will also look for signs of other ailments such as sleep disorders, anxiety or depression. The provider will also ask about the family history of the patient and will give them a series of tests to measure their ability focus, think quickly and stay organized.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD or ADD as it was previously known medical professionals will need to complete an assessment. This will likely include a detailed explanation of the person's symptoms, ratings scales that are completed by the person and their caregivers, family medical background, school and work documents, and other pertinent details. The person being assessed may be required to undergo an examination. A medical examination is necessary to rule out any conditions or diseases that could cause symptoms similar ADHD, including brain tumors, problems with vision hearing issues, depression, thyroid disorders and head injuries.
In some cases, in addition to the medical exam, a psychiatric evaluation might be necessary. In these cases the evaluator will interview the patient, along with other important people in the patient's life including spouses, parents, and siblings for children, as well as coaches and teachers for adults on their experiences and observations of the patient. These interviews can provide valuable information about what's happening to the individual and whether or not tests are needed to determine if they have ADHD.
The process of seeking an assessment can be overwhelming, especially for those who are concerned that they may not have ADHD and will be labeled with a disorder that could damage their professional or personal relationships. Asking family members, friends and coworkers to recommend a specialist who has expertise in ADHD assessments could be beneficial. You should also inquire with your insurance company to determine which specialists are covered and how much the assessment will cost.
Treatment
The treatment you receive for ADHD can help you get control of the symptoms that could be causing significant problems at school or at work as well as in your relationships and in your home life. The first step is to obtain a diagnosis. The most important step in this process is to find the right health professional who is qualified to assess your symptoms. You can ask your doctor or therapy provider for recommendations, or contact the local chapter of an organization that is national in its mental health for a list of professionals in your area. Certain insurance plans also offer a list of approved health care providers based on their specialization. If you are a member of a support group for those with ADHD you might find that many of the members have worked with certain experts and can offer recommendations.
In addition to examining your medical history and family history, a health care professional who evaluates ADHD symptoms will likely ask you to complete a number of standardized rating scales and questionnaires about the behavior you've been experiencing. These ratings are basing on research that compares your behavior with those of people who don't have ADHD.
If you meet the requirements for ADD If you meet the criteria for ADD, your health care professional may refer you for additional tests to determine other psychiatric or physical issues. Some people with ADHD also have sleep disorders, depression or other mood disorders. They could also be suffering from learning disabilities that cause them to have difficulties writing and reading. These conditions may have similar symptoms as ADHD and must be identified to be treated appropriately.
When your symptoms are identified, your doctor may prescribe either psychotherapy or medication. Behavioral therapy will teach you to observe your own behaviors, and change them when necessary. Cognitive behavioral therapy can enhance your thinking and manage your emotions. Psychotherapy 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. The stimulants such as amphetamine or methylphenidate help balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are often the first drugs used to treat ADHD. These medications are available as immediate-release pills or modified release tablets, which deliver an exact dose throughout the day. These medications are not all the same. It could take some time to locate the medication and dosage that works for your child or you.
Initial treatment plans will include a regular medical evaluation of side-effects and symptoms. The doctor will adjust medication as necessary. Behavioral therapy is often recommended for ADHD which includes cognitive-behavioral therapies and dialectical behavior therapy for adults. Other therapies can aid people with ADHD. These include mindfulness meditation and yoga.
All medications can have side effects. It is crucial to discuss any concerns with your doctor. It is also important to inform your doctor about all the other medications your child or you take, both prescription and over-the-counter. Certain drugs can interact with stimulant medication and cause dangerous side effects.
For many people suffering from ADHD finding the right dosage and medication will require time and patience. Discuss all options with your doctor and follow the instructions for how to take the medication. It is also important to inform your physician of any changes to your diet, as some foods can affect the way that the medication is absorbed by your body. In addition, some young people who are taking stimulant medication can have a slight delay in growth and an increase in blood pressure or heart rate.
Therapy
If you or your child adult is diagnosed with ADHD, the healthcare provider will develop a treatment plan for them that will include medication and therapy. They'll help you determine the right dosage and monitor the reaction of your child or yourself to the medication to ensure that it's working for you.
There are a variety of medications available for treating ADHD. The most commonly used are psychostimulants that alter neurotransmitters in the brain and can boost energy, increase focus and alertness. They include amphetamines, such as Adderall and methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta. They also include antidepressants like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Non-stimulant medicines that don't impact neurotransmitters, are prescribed to people with inattentive ADHD. They include Strattera, Qelbree, and Intuniv.
Therapy will help you learn how to manage your symptoms, and alter your behavior. Your therapist will help you develop strategies for managing your time and learn how to organize yourself. They'll teach you coping mechanisms to manage your emotions and assist you to create positive relationships. assessment adhd may also recommend counseling for families and marriages or classes that improve communication.
Disorganization is another common symptom of ADHD and can make it difficult to finish tasks or stay organized at home or at work. You may find it difficult to remember appointments or deadlines. You could also lose important documents and have trouble keeping your work area neat and clean. Behavioral therapy may include skills training to relax your mind, improve your sleep quality and practice coping anxiety.
Many people suffering from ADD/ADHD have trouble sleeping. it hard to get to sleep at night and are often awakened by frantic thoughts or restless sleep. They struggle to follow a schedule and tend to delay their work. This can lead to unfinished projects or tasks. Behavioral therapy helps you develop more self-control, increase your ability of prioritizing and reduce the amount of caffeine and nicotine in your daily diet.