ADHD Assessment - Getting a Diagnosis
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD) is a multifaceted condition. It may have three types, and the symptoms can vary. Also, it can be confused with other mental health disorders and physical conditions.
For that reason, getting an accurate ADHD assessment is crucial. Your doctor or therapist must complete questionnaires, conduct interviews with both you and others and go over any pertinent documents.
Symptoms
A health professional will look at the person's behavior or, in the case of adults their school and childhood experiences. They will also take into account the person's mental health and physical history, mood, as well as family and lifestyle issues. They may also interview people who know the person well such as parents, friends and teachers, to gather details about their relationships with the person and how the symptoms affect their daily lives.
To be eligible for a diagnosis, the patient must exhibit symptoms in at least two situations, such as at school, home and work, and cause disruption in daily life. cost of adhd assessment must have been present for at least six months. The symptoms must have been not appropriate to the individual's developmental level. The symptom must have first appeared in children before the age of 12. Additionally, they cannot be caused by a disorder, like anxiety or depression.
Inattention is the most frequent symptom, meaning that the person is having trouble staying focused or on task. They might also frequently lose things or forget appointments, and they can also make careless mistakes at school or at work. They could spend a lot of time in a state of mind, have trouble finishing 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 or make quick decisions without thinking about consequences, and struggle to wait for their turn.
A doctor will also be looking for signs of other ailments, such as sleep disorders, anxiety or depression. In addition to a physical examination the doctor will inquire about family history and personal histories and will also provide the patient with a series of tests designed to test their ability to focus and think quickly, stay organized and manage their emotions.
Diagnosis
A healthcare professional must conduct an assessment before a patient can be diagnosed with ADHD or ADD, as it was formerly known. This may include a detailed explanation of the symptoms of the individual, rating scales that are completed by the person and their caregivers, family medical history, school and job documents, and other pertinent details. The person being assessed may also be asked to take a physical exam. A medical exam is essential to rule out any conditions or diseases which may cause symptoms similar ADHD like brain tumors, vision problems, hearing issues as well as thyroid disorders, depression, and head injuries.
In certain situations, in addition to the medical exam an assessment of psychiatric disorders could be necessary. In these instances the evaluator will talk to the patient as well as other important individuals in his or her life -- for example, parents, spouses, siblings for children as well as teachers and coaches for adults -regarding their experiences and observations about the person's behavior. These interviews can provide valuable insight into what is happening to the individual and whether tests are required to determine if they suffer from ADHD.
The process of requesting an assessment can feel overwhelming, especially for those who are worried that they may not have ADHD and will be labeled with a condition that could affect their professional or personal relationships. It is helpful to ask friends, relatives and coworkers for recommendations for an expert who is certified and has expertise in conducting ADHD assessments. You should also check with your insurance provider to determine which specialists are covered and what the assessment will cost.
Treatment
Treatment for ADHD can help you manage symptoms that are causing problems at school or work as well as in your relationships or in your personal life. The first step is to get an assessment. The most important aspect of this process is finding an experienced health professional to assess your symptoms. You may ask your doctor or your therapist for a recommendation or contact the local chapter of a national mental health association to find a list of specialists in your area. Certain insurance plans also offer a list of approved health care providers by specialty. If you are a member of a support group for those with ADHD, you may find many of the participants have worked with certain experts and can offer suggestions.
In addition, to reviewing your medical history and family background, a medical professional who is evaluating ADHD symptoms will likely ask you to complete several standardized rating scales and questionnaires about the behavior you've been experiencing. These ratings are based on research that compares the behaviors of people with ADHD with those who do not have it.
If you meet the requirements of ADD, your doctor may recommend you to a specialist for further testing in order to rule out other possible physical or psychiatric issues. For instance, some people who suffer from ADHD suffer from depression, sleep disorders or other mood disorders, or problems that make it difficult for them to learn writing and reading. These conditions can have similar symptoms to ADHD and should be identified to be treated effectively.
When your symptoms are identified, your doctor may prescribe either psychotherapy or medication. Behavioral therapy will teach you how to track your own behavior and modify it if needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy can improve the way you think and manage your emotions. Psychotherapy can assist you in improving your interpersonal relationships and solve problems in your marriage, or with your family.
Medication
There are many drugs that can be used to treat ADHD in children and adults. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine help balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are often the first medications prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications can be taken as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets, which deliver a consistent dosage throughout the day. These medications aren't identical. It may take some time to identify the right dosage and medication that is appropriate for your child or for you.
Initial treatment plans will include regular examination of symptoms and side-effects. The doctor will modify the medication as needed. ADHD is often treated through behavior therapy, like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy for adults. There are a myriad of other therapies that can aid people with ADHD including yoga and mindfulness meditation.
All medications can have negative side effects. It is important to discuss any concerns with your doctor. Tell your provider all other medications you or your child take including prescriptions and over-the counter. Certain drugs interact with stimulant drugs and can result in dangerous side effects.
Finding the appropriate dosage of medication and medication for ADHD can take time and patience. Be sure to discuss all of the options with your doctor, and always follow the instructions for taking the medication. Inform your doctor of any modifications to your diet, as certain foods may interfere with the way in which the medication is absorbed. Young people who are who are taking stimulant medication may experience a minor growth delay or an increase in blood pressure or heart rate.
Therapy
If a person of any age receives a diagnosis of ADHD the healthcare professional will work with them to design an individualized treatment plan that incorporates therapy and medication. They'll help you determine the appropriate dosage and will monitor your child's or your own reaction to the medication to ensure it is working well for you.
There are many types of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. Psychostimulants, which affect brain neurotransmitters, can help increase alertness and energy and improve focus. These include amphetamines such as Adderall and methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta. 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 teach you how to manage your symptoms and alter your behavior. Your therapist will guide you to use time management skills and develop organizational strategies. They will help you learn to manage your emotions, and assist you develop positive relationships. They might also suggest counseling for families and marriages or classes that help improve communication.
Disorganization is another manifestation of ADHD and can make it difficult to finish tasks or stay organized at home or at work. It can be difficult to remember appointments or deadlines. You could also lose important paperwork and have trouble keeping your work area neat and tidy. Behavioral therapy may include a course in skills that will help you relax your mind, get better sleep, and learn to manage anxiety.
Many adults with ADD/ADHD have difficulties sleeping through the night. They are often woken by racing thoughts or restless sleep. They have trouble following a schedule and tend to delay their work. This leads to incomplete projects or tasks that are not completed. Behavioral therapy can help you learn to develop better self-discipline and increase your ability to prioritize tasks and reduce the amount of caffeine and nicotine in your diet.