ADHD Assessment - Getting a Diagnosis
Attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) or ADD is a complex disorder. It is a complex condition that has three sub-types and can present with varying symptoms. Also, it can be confused with other mental health disorders and physical conditions.
To that end, 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
A health professional will evaluate the patient's behavior or, in the case of 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 might also ask those who are close to the person, such as parents, teachers and family members, about their relationship and how their symptoms affect them.
To be able to receive an assessment, a person must be exhibiting symptoms in at least two situations, such as at home, school and work, and they must cause dysfunction in daily life. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months. They must also be inappropriate for the person's developmental level. The symptoms must have been noticed in children before the age of 12. They aren't caused by other disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
The most frequently reported symptom of ADHD is inattention, meaning that the person is having trouble staying focused or keeping their mind on track. They might also lose things frequently or forget appointments and make mistakes in school or at work. They might spend long periods 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, make snap decisions without considering the consequences, and have difficulty waiting for their turn.
A medical professional will also look for indications of other illnesses like sleep disorders, anxiety or depression. In addition to a physical exam the doctor will inquire about family and personal history, and they will give the person an array of tests to assess their ability to pay attention and think quickly, stay focused and control their emotions.
Diagnosis
A health professional must perform an assessment before a person can be diagnosed with ADHD or ADD, as it was previously called. This will include a detailed description and rating scales that are completed both by the person and caregivers. It may also include medical history of the family, records of school and work, and other relevant information. A physical exam may be required of the individual being examined. A medical exam is essential to rule out any conditions or diseases that could cause symptoms similar ADHD such as brain tumors, vision issues hearing problems, depression, thyroid disorders and head injuries.
In some instances, in addition to the medical examination an assessment of psychiatric disorders could be necessary. In these situations the evaluator is required to talk with the patient and other significant people in their life -- like spouses, parents and siblings for children, teachers and coaches for adults -regarding their experiences and observations about the person's behavior. The personal insights gained from these interviews may aid in determining what is happening to the person and what tests may be required to determine if the patient is suffering from ADHD.
The process of requesting an assessment can be overwhelming, especially for someone who is concerned that they may not have ADHD and may be labeled with a disorder that could affect their career or personal relationships. Asking family members, friends and coworkers to recommend a professional with expertise in ADHD assessments can be beneficial. It is recommended to inquire with the person's insurance provider to determine which specialists are covered under their plans and to know how much the evaluation will cost.
Treatment
Treatment for ADHD can help manage symptoms that can cause issues at work or at school, in your relationships, or in your personal. The first step is to get an assessment, and the most important step in that process is finding an expert in health care who is qualified to evaluate your symptoms. You may ask your doctor or your therapist for a recommendation or contact the local chapter of an organization that is national in its mental health for a list with a list of professionals in your area. Certain insurance plans offer an alphabetical list of health care professionals. If cost of adhd assessment 're a part of an organization that supports people with ADHD you might find that many of the members have worked with specific experts and can offer recommendations.
In addition to examining your family and medical background, a medical specialist who assesses ADHD symptoms is likely to ask you to complete several standardized questionnaires and rating scales regarding the behavior you have been experiencing. These ratings are basing on research that compares your behavior to those of people who do not have ADHD.
If you meet the criteria for ADD, your health care specialist may refer you to further testing to check for other possible physical or psychiatric disorders. Some people with ADHD also have depression, sleep disorders or other mood disorders. They may also have learning disabilities that cause them to have difficulties writing and reading. These conditions can cause similar symptoms to those afflicted by ADHD, and it is essential to recognize them in order to treat them appropriately.
When your symptoms are identified, your doctor may prescribe either medication or psychotherapy. Behavioral therapy can teach you to be aware of your behaviors, and change them when necessary. Cognitive behavioral therapy can improve the ability to manage your emotions and think. Psychotherapy can help you improve your interpersonal relationships and resolve problems in your marriage, or with your family.
Medication
There are a variety of medications that can help treat ADHD in both adults and children. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine help balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are typically the first drugs prescribed to treat ADHD. They are available as immediate-release pills (short-acting) or modified-release tablets that provide a consistent dose throughout the day. The effectiveness of these medicines differs for each person and it can take a while to find the right dose and dosage that works for you or your child.
The initial treatment plan will include regular clinical monitoring of side effects and symptoms. The doctor will modify the medication if needed. ADHD is often treated with behavioral therapy, for example cognitive-behavioral and dialectical therapy for adults. There are many other treatments that can benefit those suffering from ADHD, such as mindfulness meditation and yoga.
Every medication has the potential for side effects, so it is essential to speak with your doctor about any concerns you may have. It is also crucial to tell your provider about any other medications you or your child is taking including prescription and over-the-counter. Certain medications interact with stimulant medications and can cause dangerous side effects.
For many people with ADHD, finding the right dosage and medication will require time and patience. Be sure to discuss all your options with your physician and follow the directions for taking the medication. It is also crucial to inform your physician of any changes to your diet, because certain foods may affect the way that the medication is absorption by your body. Young people who are who are taking stimulant medication may have a slight slowing of growth and an increase in blood pressure or heart rate.
Therapy
If a child, or an adult, is diagnosed with ADHD and a healthcare professional is consulted, they will create a treatment plan for them that will include therapy and medication. They'll assist you in finding the right dosage and track the reaction of your child or yourself to the medication to make sure that it's working for you.
There are many types of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. Psychostimulants, which act on neurotransmitters within the brain can boost energy and alertness as well as focus. These include amphetamines like Adderall and methylphenidates such as Ritalin and Concerta. These include antidepressants like Wellbutrin, Effexor and Viloxazine. Non-stimulant drugs, that don't impact neurotransmitters are prescribed for those with the inattentive presentation of ADHD and include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine).
Therapy will help you understand how to manage your symptoms and change your behavior. Your therapist will help you how to utilize time management techniques and develop strategies for organizing. They'll show you ways to deal with your emotions and help build relationships that are positive. They may also recommend couples and family counseling classes to improve communication.
Disorganization is a common sign of ADHD and can make it difficult to complete tasks or stay organized at home or at work. You may find it difficult to remember deadlines or appointments. You might also lose important documents and find it difficult to keep your work area neat and tidy. Behavioral therapy can include a course in skills that will assist you in calming your mind, have better quality sleep, and learn to manage anxiety.
Many people with ADD/ADHD find it difficult to go to sleep at night and are often woken up by a racing mind or restless sleep. They are unable to stick to an agenda and tend to delay their work. This results in unfinished projects or tasks. Behavioral therapy can help you to improve your self-control and increase your ability to prioritize tasks and reduce the amount of caffeine and nicotine in your diet.