ADHD Assessments
There is currently no single test that can determine if a person is suffering from ADHD. Instead, specialists use various tools to gather information about and observe 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 an essential element of the comprehensive assessment process that is required to evaluate, screen the patient, and monitor treatment.
Assessment Process
Most ADHD assessments include a detailed interview with the person who is being evaluated. A clinician like a psychologist, medical professional or clinical social worker will conduct the test. The clinician will inquire with the patient about their past and current symptoms. Many evaluators employ standardized behavior rating scales. These tests are based on research that compares the behavior of people suffering from ADHD and those without. They are not diagnostic in themselves, but add crucial, objective data to the assessment. They include the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale and the Teacher-Parent Report Form of the Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC). Adults can be evaluated using a standard ADHD rating scale, such as the Wender Utah Rating Scale. The clinician will use an assessment of behavior for adults and children. This looks for other conditions that are often co-occurring with ADHD for example, conduct disorder or oppositional defiant disorder, depression or anxiety.
The evaluator will also look at the person's medical history and current medications. In addition, the therapist will look over medical records and gather background details about the person's family and surroundings. For example the evaluator might inquire whether the person's parents or other relatives have ADHD and what the symptoms they experienced were like.
Psychometric and neuropsychological tests may provide valuable information to aid the evaluator to diagnose ADHD particularly when there is some doubt about the diagnosis. However these tests are not of much utility as the primary instrument for determining an ADHD diagnosis because of problems in their sensitivity and specificity. They also don't reflect the complexity of daily adult life.
A more recent test known as SPECT brain scanning provides useful information about how the brain functions for a short period of time. However the results are only useful in the diagnosis of certain types of injuries and illnesses that affect the brain. They don't accurately reflect how the brain works in everyday situations, such as school, at work, and in relationships.
More Material is best to consult an expert in mental health who is experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. The best method to locate such a person is through an appointment with a doctor, therapist or other professional.
Symptoms
People suffering from ADHD often have trouble staying focused and managing their emotions. This can lead to problems at work, school, or in relationships. It also makes it difficult to handle everyday frustrations in a healthy manner. If left untreated, ADHD symptoms can lead to severe consequences like loss of employment, broken friendships and other negative consequences.
To be diagnosed with ADHD a person's symptoms must last throughout the adolescent and childhood years. These symptoms should also affect their ability to function in daily life, and have been present before age 12.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD are impulsivity and inattention. Inattention symptoms include difficulty staying on task, missing important information, and having trouble remembering things. Someone may also have poor organizational skills, or experience difficulty staying on track and following directions. many tasks at the same time.
Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms include fidgeting, being unable to sit still, having excess energy, and being talkative. This type of ADHD can also cause a person to be unable to wait their turn or interrupting other people.
Children often display these kinds of ADHD symptoms when they start school. They can struggle in class because of academic demands, and they can become frustrated by their inability to concentration or organizational skills. They may also struggle with interpersonal relationships due their tendency to emotional outbursts.
These symptoms can persist into adulthood and cause problems at work or with romantic partners or even with family members. Individuals with untreated ADHD may feel embarrassed or blame themselves, believing they're not smart enough to be successful or there's something wrong with them. However, it is important to realize that having ADHD does not mean you're less capable or intelligent.
To make a diagnosis of ADHD the primary care physician or mental health professional will perform a thorough examination. They will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they have on 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 assess your symptoms. They will also review your medical history and educational background. They might also refer you to an examination of your body or take psychological tests to rule out other conditions.
Diagnosis
Your child or you are struggling at school. It could be due to the often-dreaded "snow day" or maybe you're concerned about the latest teacher evaluation. You've heard about ADHD but don't really know what it means -- is your child just lazy or is there a problem that's simpler to treat than? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. You must determine if the problems result from excessive screen time, inadequate parenting or a medical condition. Your family physician can help determine if an ADHD assessment is right for you.
In general the general case, an ADHD assessment involves an interview, a review of symptoms and the use of scales for rating or checklists. Doctors will ask questions about the patient's medical history, their progress since childhood as well as their academic and professional experience, driving records, and their family and marital history. The doctor will also test for other disorders such as learning disabilities, mood and anxiety disorders.
The person who is being evaluated must be able to discuss the problems openly and honestly. It is essential that the person being analyzed doesn't hide in shame or because of fear of criticism. This will help the examiner determine how ADHD symptoms impact daily life and provide treatment options.
For a diagnosis of ADHD to be made, a number of symptoms must have been present prior to age 12 and must have been "impairing" at least in two major situations like home or school. Impairment goes beyond being forgetful or having difficulty keeping up with assignments. It can also include getting fired from a work for tardiness or inability to complete tasks on time, or creating tension and conflict in a relationship.
Many doctors will interview the patient as well as a loved one (spouse, sibling or parent for children) and may solicit feedback from those who spend an extended period of time with the patient- such as a nanny, coach or a religious leader. This type of personal insight will reveal information that can't be gleaned through questionnaires. Psychiatrists also usually conduct a physical examination and run tests in the laboratory, like urine and blood tests, to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms.
Treatment
A health professional can do an ADHD evaluation to determine if there's a root cause, like a mood disorder or a physical condition that triggers similar symptoms. A thorough assessment involves looking over the person's medical and mental history, evaluating past and present behavior and school performance, and then contacting teachers, family members, and other caregivers to get a more complete picture of how the individual functions in different settings.
People with ADHD typically benefit from a mix of treatments, says Dr. Frank. Some people are prescribed medications to improve focus and concentration, and decrease the impulsiveness. These include stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall or non-stimulant medications that take longer time to effect results, but they can enhance attention skills, such as Intuniv and Clonidine.
Behavioral therapy is a part of most treatment plans, particularly for children. The therapist might teach them ways to organize their lives to aid them in keeping the track of their activities or practice mindfulness meditation to help improve their impulse control and better manage their time. Family or marital counseling can be beneficial for adults with ADHD because it helps them develop the skills of communication and problem-solving that can help them deal with their issues at home and at work.
Additionally, many people who suffer from ADHD can manage their symptoms by following a balanced diet, sleeping enough and exercise, and cutting down on alcohol consumption and junk food. It may also be helpful to seek support from friends and family or join a support group or attend an ADHD coach training program that can provide them with tips and tools for managing their symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should visit their GP for regular medication checkups to understand how their treatment works and to identify any potential adverse side effects. The GP can refer patients suffering from ADHD for additional evaluation or for a diagnosis to psychiatrists or a clinical psychologist.