ADHD Assessment - Getting a Diagnosis
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD) is a complicated condition. It can have three types, and the symptoms can vary. It can also be confused with other mental health disorders as well as physical conditions.
To that end, getting an accurate ADHD assessment is essential. Your therapist or doctor will need to complete questionnaires, conduct interviews with both you and others and go over any pertinent documents.
Symptoms
A health care provider will evaluate the patient's behavior or, for adults their school and childhood experiences. They will also take into account the person's mental health, physical history, mood, as well as family and lifestyle issues. They may also inquire with people who are close to the person, including teachers, parents and friends about their relationship and how the symptoms affect them.
To qualify for a diagnosis, the person must show symptoms in at least two environments, including at home, school and work, and they must cause dysfunction in daily life. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum for six months. They must also have been not appropriate for the individual's developmental level. For kids, the symptom must have started before age 12. Lastly, they can't be caused by a disorder, like anxiety or depression.
Inattention is the most common sign that a person is unable to stay focused or on task. They may also lose things frequently, miss appointments, or make a few mistakes at work or in school. They might spend long periods of time snoozing or have difficulty completing tasks and frequently 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. book adhd assessment might interrupt others, make quick decisions without thinking about the consequences, and have difficulty getting their turn.
A doctor can also check for other conditions like depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders. The doctor will also inquire about the history of the patient's family and give them a series tests to determine their ability to pay attention and think quickly. They will also test their ability to stay organized.
Diagnosis
A healthcare professional must conduct an assessment before a person can be diagnosed with ADHD or ADD or ADD, as it was previously called. This could include a detailed explanation of the symptoms of the individual, rating scales completed by the individual and their caregivers, medical history, school and job documents, and other pertinent details. The person being evaluated could be required to undergo a physical exam. A medical exam is required to rule out any conditions or diseases which may cause symptoms similar to ADHD such as brain tumors, vision issues hearing problems and thyroid disorders, depression and head injuries.
In some cases, in addition to the medical examination an assessment of psychiatric disorders may be required. In these cases the evaluator is required to talk with the patient as well as other significant people in his or her life -- such as spouses, parents and siblings for children as well as teachers and coaches for adults -- about their experiences and observations about the person's behavior. Personal insight gleaned from these interviews may help clarify what's happening to the individual and what, if any, tests might be needed to determine if the patient has ADHD.
The process of seeking an assessment may be overwhelming, particularly for those who are concerned that they may not actually have ADHD and may be labeled with a condition which could harm their professional or personal relationships. Asking family members, friends and colleagues to recommend a professional with expertise in ADHD assessments can be helpful. You should also check with your insurance company to see which professionals are covered and how much the test will cost.
Treatment
The treatment you receive for ADHD can help you gain control over the symptoms that could be causing significant problems at school or work, in your relationships or in your personal life. The first step is getting a diagnosis, and the most important step in that process is finding a health care professional who is qualified to assess your symptoms. You can consult your physician or therapist for a referral or call the local chapter of an organization that is national in its mental health to find a list of professionals near you. Certain insurance plans also offer a list of approved health care providers by specialty. You may find that many members of a support group for ADHD sufferers have worked with specific professionals and are able to make recommendations.
A health care professional who is evaluating ADHD will likely require you to fill out various scales of rating that are standardized or questionnaires regarding the behavior you are experiencing. These ratings are based on research that compares your behaviors to those of others who don't have ADHD.
If you fit the criteria of ADD Your doctor may refer you to a specialist for further testing in order to rule out any other possible physical or psychiatric issues. For instance, some people who suffer from ADHD have depression, sleep disorders, or other mood disorders, or problems that make it difficult for them to learn writing and reading. These conditions can exhibit similar symptoms as ADHD and need to be recognized to be treated appropriately.
When your symptoms are spotted, your doctor will prescribe a course of action that will include either medication or psychotherapy. Behavioral therapy teaches you how to observe your own behavior and modify it if needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help improve the ability to manage your emotions and think. Psychotherapy can aid you in improving your interpersonal relationships and resolve problems in your marriage or with your family.
Medication
There are many drugs that can be used to treat ADHD in adults and children. The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine are used to boost and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are typically the first medications prescribed to treat ADHD. They are available in immediate-release pills (short-acting) or modified-release tablets that provide a consistent dose throughout the day. The effectiveness of these medications varies among individuals, so it may take some time to find the right medication and dose that is suitable for you or your child.
The initial treatment plan will comprise regular monitoring of side effects and symptoms. The doctor will adjust the medication as needed. ADHD is usually treated using behavioral therapy, for example cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy for adults. There are a variety of other therapies that can aid people suffering from ADHD like mindfulness meditation and yoga.
All medication comes with potential adverse effects, so it is crucial to talk to your doctor regarding any concerns you might have. It is also crucial to inform your doctor of the other medications you or your child is taking including 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 medication and dose will take time and patience. Discuss all your options with your physician and follow the instructions for how to take the medication. It is also crucial to inform your physician about any changes in your diet because certain foods may alter the way the medication is absorbed by your body. In addition, some young people who are taking stimulant medication may experience minor growth delay and an increase in heart rate or blood pressure.
Therapy
If you have a child or adult, is diagnosed with ADHD or other disorders, the healthcare professional will devise a treatment program for them that will include medication and therapy. They will assist you in determining the correct dosage and monitor the reaction of your child or yourself to the medication.
There are many types of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. Psychostimulants, which act on brain neurotransmitters can increase energy and alertness and also improve focus. Amphetamines like Adderall, and methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta are a few examples. These include antidepressants such Wellbutrin, Effexor and Viloxazine. Non-stimulant drugs, that do not impact neurotransmitters, are prescribed to people suffering from the inattention-deficit manifestation of ADHD and include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine).
Therapy will assist you in learning to manage your symptoms and change your behaviors. Your therapist will guide you to use time management techniques and develop strategies for organizing. They will help you learn to cope with your emotions, and help you build positive relationships. They may also recommend couples and family counseling classes to enhance communication.
Disorganization is a common symptom of ADHD and can make it difficult to complete tasks or stay organized at home or at work. You might find it difficult to remember appointments or deadlines. You might also lose important paperwork and find it difficult to keep your workspace clean and clean. Behavioral therapy may include skills training to calm your mind, improve your sleep quality and develop coping skills.
Many people suffering from ADD/ADHD have trouble sleeping. it hard to get to sleep at night, and are often awakened by racing thoughts or a restless sleep. They have trouble following the schedule and often delay their work. This leads to incomplete projects or tasks that are not completed. Behavioral therapy can help you develop more self-control, increase your ability of prioritizing and reduce the amount caffeine and nicotine in your daily diet.