ADHD Assessments
There is currently no single test that can determine if a person is suffering from ADHD. Instead, specialists use different tools to solicit information about and evaluate the signs of an individual.
These include standardized clinical interviewing and rating scales, observational ratings and a number of psychometric/neuropsychological tests (including intelligence testing). They are an important component of the overall assessment process that is necessary to evaluate, screen the patient, and monitor treatment.
Assessment Process
The majority of ADHD assessments involve a detailed interview between the evaluator and the person who is being evaluated. A professional such as a psychologist medical professional or clinical social worker will conduct the test. The clinician will ask the patient to describe their history and present symptoms. A lot of evaluators utilize standardized behavior rating scales. These scales are based on research that compares the behavior of those with ADHD and those who do not. They aren't diagnostic in themselves however they provide important information that can be used to evaluate. They include the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale and the Teacher-Parent Report Form from the Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC). Adults can be assessed with an established ADHD rating scale like the Wender Utah Rating Scale. For both adults and children the doctor will also utilize a behavioral checklist. It will look for other conditions that often co-occur with ADHD like conduct disorder or oppositional defiant disorder, depression or anxiety.
The evaluator also will look into the person's medical history and current medications. In addition, the clinician will go through medical records and gather details about the person's family and surroundings. The examiner may inquire if the person's parents, or other relatives have ADHD and what signs they experienced.
Neuropsychological and psychometric tests can provide crucial information to assist the evaluator in determining ADHD particularly when there is some uncertainty regarding the diagnosis. However these tests are not of much utility as the primary tool for making an ADHD diagnosis due to issues with their sensitivity and accuracy. They also do not adequately reflect the variety of situations that an adult faces every day.
A more recent test SPECT brain imaging provides useful information about how the brain works during a short periods 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 operates in everyday life like school, work and relationships.
It is best to consult an expert in mental healthcare who is experienced in the evaluation and management of ADHD. A referral from a therapist or doctor is the best method to locate an expert.
diva adhd assessment and symptoms
People suffering from ADHD struggle to stay focused and retaining self-control. This can cause problems at school, at work or in relationships. It is also difficult to manage everyday frustrations. If not treated, ADHD symptoms may result in serious consequences such as loss of employment, broken friendships, and other negative outcomes.
To be diagnosed with ADHD a person's symptoms must last throughout the adolescent years and into childhood. These symptoms must also interfere in their ability to function normally and be present prior the age of 12.
The most frequent symptoms of ADHD are impulsivity and inattention. Inattentive symptoms can include difficulty keeping track of the task at hand, ignoring important information, or having difficulty remembering. One may also be lacking organization skills, or have difficulties following directions and keeping track of many tasks at the same time.
Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms include fidgeting, being unable to sit still, having excess energy, and being talkative. A person with this kind of ADHD might also have difficulty getting their turn and interrupting others.
These signs are typically seen in children at the time they begin school. They may struggle in school due to the demands of academics and may become frustrated with their inability to organize themselves or focus. They also may have difficulty with interpersonal relationships since they are more likely to emotional outbursts.
These symptoms can last into adulthood and cause problems at work as well as with romantic partners or even with family members. Individuals with untreated ADHD might feel ashamed or blame themselves, thinking they're not smart enough to succeed or that something is wrong with them. But it's important to recognize that having ADHD doesn't mean you're less intelligent or capable.
To diagnose ADHD, your primary care physician or mental health professional will conduct an extensive evaluation. They will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they affect your life. They will also interview you, your partner, and other family members and friends. To evaluate the severity of your symptoms, they employ scales for behavior and lists of symptoms. They will also review your medical history and education. They may also recommend you undergo a physical examination or take psychological tests to rule out other ailments.
Diagnosis
You or your child has struggled in school. You might be concerned about the fearful snow day or the most recent teacher evaluation. You've heard about ADHD but aren't sure what it is. Is your child just lazy, or does he have a problem that's more easily to treat than fix? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. It is important to determine whether your problems are caused by too much screen time, inadequate parenting or a medical issue. Your family doctor can assist you to determine if an ADHD assessment is appropriate for you.
In general the general case, an ADHD assessment involves an interview and a review of symptoms and the use of rating scales or checklists. Doctors will ask about the person's past health, their development back to childhood, academic and work experience, driving history and family and marital relationships. The doctor will also test for other disorders such as learning disabilities or anxiety and mood disorders.
The person being evaluated must be able discuss the subject matter openly and honestly. It is important that the person who is being evaluated is not hiding behind embarrassment, or fearful of being judged. This will allow the examiner to comprehend how ADHD symptoms impact daily life and recommend treatment options.
For a diagnosis of ADHD to be confirmed, a number of symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12 and must have been "impairing" at least in two major environments, such as school or at home. The impairment goes beyond being unable to remember or struggling to complete assignments. It could also be a result of being fired from work for tardiness or inability to complete tasks on time, or creating stress and conflict in relationships.
Many doctors will interview the patient as well as loved ones, like a spouse or sibling. They may also ask feedback from people that spend a great deal of time with the patient, like a nanny or coach. This kind of personal insight will reveal information that can't be gleaned from questionnaires. Psychiatrists also conduct a physical exam and laboratory tests like urine and blood tests to rule out other possible causes.
Treatment
A health care provider may perform an ADHD evaluation to determine if there is a root cause, such as a mental condition or another physical condition that causes similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation involves examining the person's medical and mental history, as well as evaluating their past and current behavior and school performance. It also includes contacting family teachers, parents, and other caregivers to get an accurate picture of the person's performance in different settings.
People with ADHD often benefit from a variety of treatments, says Dr. Frank. Certain patients are prescribed medications to improve focus and concentration and reduce the tendency to be impulsive. These include stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall or non-stimulant drugs that take longer time to work, but can improve attention skills such as Intuniv and Clonidine.
The majority of treatment plans include the use of behavioral therapy, particularly for children. For instance, a counselor might help them learn ways to organize their lives to help them to keep track of their belongings, or they might engage in mindfulness meditation to increase their impulse control and help them better manage their time. Family or marital counseling can also be helpful for those suffering from ADHD because it helps them develop how to communicate and problem-solve that can help them deal with their issues at the workplace and at home.
In addition, many people with ADHD can manage their symptoms by following a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and exercising, and cutting down on alcohol consumption and junk food. It is also beneficial to ask for assistance from family and friends, enroll in an organization for support or an ADHD Coach training program which will teach them techniques and strategies for managing their symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should visit their GP regularly for periodic medication checks to learn the way their treatment works and to identify any potential adverse side effects. The GP can also refer patients who suffer from ADHD to a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist for further evaluation and diagnosis.