ADHD Assessment - Getting a Diagnosis
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD) is a multifaceted condition. It has three types and can manifest with various symptoms. It can also be confused with physical ailments and other mental disorders.
For that reason, getting an accurate ADHD assessment is important. Your therapist or physician must complete questionnaires, conduct interviews with both you and others and look over any relevant documents.
Signs and symptoms
To determine ADHD, a health care provider will examine the person's current behavior or in adulthood, their childhood behavior and school experiences. They will also look at the person's physical and mental health history, mood and lifestyle factors affecting family and friends. They may ask people who are close to the person, such as teachers, parents and family members about their relationship with them and how the symptoms affect them.
To qualify for a diagnosis, a person must be exhibiting symptoms in two or more situations, such as at home, school or work, and cause problems in everyday life. Symptoms must have been present for at minimum six months. They must also be not appropriate for the individual's developmental level. For children, the symptom must have begun before the age of 12. They shouldn't be triggered by other disorders, like anxiety or depression.
The most frequently reported characteristic of ADHD is inattention, which means the person has trouble staying focused or keeping their attention on the task at hand. They might also frequently lose things or forget appointments, and they can also make a few mistakes at work or at school. They may spend a lot of time daydreaming or have difficulty completing tasks 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 might interrupt others and make quick decisions without considering consequences, and are unable to wait for their turn.
A doctor can also check for other conditions like depression, anxiety or sleep disorders. In addition to a physical examination, the provider will inquire about family history and personal history and will then provide the patient with several tests designed to measure their ability to pay attention, think quickly, stay focused and control their emotions.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, or ADD as it was previously referred to, a health professional must conduct an assessment. This could include a detailed explanation of the person's symptoms, rating scales that are completed by the person and their family members, medical history, work and school records, as well as other pertinent information. A physical exam may be required for the person being examined. A medical examination is essential to rule out other conditions or diseases that may cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD like hearing disorders, brain tumors and vision issues as well as thyroid disorders, depression and head injuries.
In some cases, in addition to the medical examination an assessment of psychiatric disorders could be necessary. In these instances, the evaluator interviews the patient as well as other important people in the life of the patient including spouses parents, siblings, and spouse for children as well as teachers and coaches for adult on their observations and experiences with the patient. These interviews can give valuable information about what's happening to the person, and whether or not tests are needed to determine if they suffer from ADHD.
The process of requesting an assessment may be overwhelming, especially for those who are worried that they might not have ADHD and will be labeled as having a condition that could damage their professional or personal relationships. It is helpful to ask your family, friends and coworkers for recommendations for a qualified specialist who has previous experience performing ADHD assessments. It is also advisable to check with your insurance company to find out which specialists are covered and what the test will cost.
Treatment
Finding treatment for ADHD can help you take control over the symptoms that could cause significant issues at school or work, in your relationships or in your personal life. The first step is to obtain a diagnosis. The most important step in that process is finding an expert in health care who is qualified to evaluate 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. Certain insurance plans also offer an approved list of 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 specialists and are able to provide recommendations.
A medical professional who is evaluating ADHD will likely request you to complete a number standardized rating scales or questionnaires on the behavior you're experiencing. These ratings are from research that compares your behaviour to those of others who do not suffer from ADHD.
If you meet the criteria 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 depression, sleep disorders, or other mood disorders. They may also have learning disabilities, which cause them to have difficulty reading and writing. These conditions can trigger similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD and it is important to recognize them to treat them appropriately.
When your symptoms are recognized, your doctor can prescribe medication or psychotherapy. Behavioral therapy helps you learn to observe your behavior and alter it if needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy can enhance the way you think and manage your emotions. Psychotherapy can also help improve your interpersonal relationships and deal with problems in your marriage or family.
Medication
There are many drugs that can be used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine help to increase and balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. They are typically the first drugs prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications are available as immediate-release pills or modified-release tablets that provide a consistent dosage throughout the day. The effectiveness of these medicines is different for each individual so it could take a while to find the right dose and dosage that is right for you or your child.
The initial treatment plan will consist of regular clinical monitoring of side effects and symptoms. The doctor will adjust medication if needed. ADHD is often treated with behavioral therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behaviour therapy for adults. Other treatments can assist those suffering from ADHD. They include yoga and mindfulness meditation.
Every medication can cause adverse effects. It is essential to discuss any concerns with your physician. It is also essential to inform your doctor of any other medications your child or you takes, both prescription and over-the-counter. Certain drugs interact with stimulant medications and may cause dangerous side effects.
For many people with ADHD, finding the right dosage and medication will take time and patience. Be sure to discuss all of the options with your doctor and adhere to the directions for taking the medication. It is also important to inform your physician of any changes in your diet since certain foods can affect the way that the medication is taken up by your body. Additionally, young people who are taking stimulant medication may suffer from a minor delay in growth as well as an increase in heart rate or blood pressure.
Therapy
If you or your child adult, is diagnosed with ADHD and a healthcare professional is consulted, they will create a treatment plan for them, which includes 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 medications that can be used to treat ADHD. Psychostimulants that affect brain neurotransmitters, can help increase energy and alertness as well as focus. They include amphetamines, such as Adderall and methylphenidates such as Ritalin and Concerta. They also include antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Non-stimulant drugs, which don't impact neurotransmitters are prescribed to people suffering from the inattentive presentation of ADHD and include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine).
Therapy will help you learn how to manage your symptoms and alter your behavior. Your therapist will assist you to develop time management strategies and help you organize yourself. They will help you learn to cope with your emotions, and assist you develop positive relationships. They might also suggest family and marriage counseling or classes to improve communication.
Disorganization is a common ADHD symptom. It can make it difficult to stay on track or complete tasks at home or work. You may find it difficult to remember appointments or deadlines. how to get assessed for adhd might also lose important paperwork and have difficulty keeping your work area neat and clean. Behavioral therapy could include a program of training to assist you in calming your mind, get better quality sleep and work on managing anxiety.
Many people suffering from ADD/ADHD have difficulties falling asleep at night. They are often awakened by a flurry of thoughts or a lack of sleep. They struggle to follow an agenda and tend to procrastinate. This can lead to unfinished projects or tasks that are not completed. Behavioral therapy helps you develop more self-control, increase your ability to prioritize and reduce the amount of caffeine and nicotine you consume in your daily diet.