ADHD Assessment - Getting a Diagnosis
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD) is a complicated condition. It can be classified into three subtypes, and the symptoms may vary. It can also be confused with physical ailments and other mental disorders.
It is therefore crucial to receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. Your therapist or physician will need to fill out questionnaires, interview you and other people and go over any pertinent documents.
Signs and symptoms
A health care provider will evaluate the patient's behavior or, for adults their school and childhood experiences. They will also consider the person's mental health as well as physical history, mood, as well as family and lifestyle issues. They may interview people who are familiar with the person, like parents, friends and teachers, to gather information on their relationships with the person and how the symptoms affect their lives.
To be diagnosed, a person must exhibit symptoms in at least two environments, including at work, home and school, and cause a dysfunction in their daily lives. The symptoms must have been present at minimum for six months. The symptoms must have been inappropriate to the person's development level. The symptom must have appeared in children prior to the age of 12. They shouldn't be triggered by other disorders, such as anxiety or depression.
Inattention is the most commonly reported sign that a person is unable to stay focused or on task. They can also lose things frequently, forget appointments and make a few mistakes at work or at school. They may also spend hours daydreaming or having difficulty completing tasks.
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 may disrupt others, make rapid decisions without considering the consequences, and have trouble waiting their turn.
A medical professional will also look for indications of other ailments, such as anxiety, sleep disorders or depression. The doctor will also inquire about the history of the patient's family and will give them a series of tests to determine their ability to concentrate and think quickly. They also need to be organized.
Diagnosis
In order for a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, or ADD as it was previously referred to medical professionals will have to conduct an assessment. This will include a comprehensive description of the scale and a rating by both the person and caregivers. It may also contain medical records from the family, details of school and work and other pertinent information. A physical examination could be required for the person who is being assessed. A medical exam is important to rule out other ailments or diseases that could cause symptoms similar to those associated with ADHD like brain tumors, hearing problems, vision issues and thyroid disorders, depression and head injuries.
In some cases, a psychiatric evaluation will be required in addition to a medical exam. In these instances the evaluator speaks with the patient, along with other important people in the patient's life including spouses or parents, as well as siblings for children and teachers and coaches for adult, about their experiences and observations of the patient. These interviews can give an important insight into what's happening with the person and whether tests are needed to determine if they have ADHD.
It can be a daunting task to go through the process of seeking an assessment, especially when you're worried that you don't have ADHD. It is also possible to worry that your relationships or career could be affected if you are diagnosed with a condition. It is a good idea to ask your family, friends and coworkers for recommendations for a qualified specialist who has previous experience performing ADHD assessments. You should also check with your insurance company to see which professionals are covered and what the test will cost.
Treatment
Treatment for ADHD can help manage symptoms that cause problems at work or school, in your relationships, or in your personal. The first step is getting a diagnosis. The most important step in this process is to find a health care professional who is competent to assess 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 to find a list of specialists in your region. Some insurance plans have an alphabetical list of health professionals. If you are a member of a support group for people with ADHD, you may find many of the participants have worked with certain experts and can offer recommendations.
In addition to reviewing your medical history and family history, a health specialist who assesses ADHD symptoms is likely to ask you to complete a number of standardized questionnaires and rating scales regarding the behavior you've been experiencing. These ratings are basing on research that compares your behavior to those of others who don't have ADHD.
If you meet the criteria for ADD, your health care professional may refer you for further testing to check for other psychiatric or physical conditions. For instance, some people with ADHD have sleep disorders, depression or other mood disorders, or disabilities that cause difficulty with reading and writing. These conditions may have similar symptoms as ADHD and need to be recognized for treatment.
If your symptoms are discovered the doctor will prescribe an action plan that will include psychotherapy or medications. Behavioral therapy teaches you how to track your own behavior and modify it if needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy can enhance your thinking and manage your emotions. Psychotherapy can also assist you to improve your interpersonal relationships and resolve issues in your relationship or family.
Medication
There are many drugs that can be used to treat ADHD in children and adults. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine help to regulate brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are typically the first drugs prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications are available as immediate-release pills (short-acting) or modified-release tablets that deliver a consistent dose throughout the day. The effectiveness of these medications varies among individuals, so it may take some time to find the right dose and dosage that works for you or your child.
Initial treatment plans will include a regular examination of symptoms and side-effects. The doctor will adjust medication as necessary. Behavioral therapy is also often recommended for ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy for adults. Other therapies can help those suffering from ADHD. They include mindfulness meditation and yoga.
Every medication can cause side effects. It is important to discuss any concerns with your physician. It is also crucial to inform your doctor of any other medications you or your child take including prescription and over-the-counter. Certain medications may interact with stimulant medications and trigger dangerous side effects.
Finding the right medication dose and dosage for ADHD can take time and patience. Discuss all your options with your doctor and adhere to the instructions for how to take the medication. Inform your doctor about any modifications to your diet, as certain foods may interfere with the way that the medication is absorption. Additionally, www.iampsychiatry.uk taking stimulant medication can experience minor growth delay and an increase in heart rate or blood pressure.
Therapy
If you or your child adult is diagnosed with ADHD and a healthcare professional is consulted, they will develop a treatment plan for them that includes medication and therapy. They will assist you in determining the appropriate dosage and track the reaction of your child or yourself to the medication.
There are many types of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. The most popular are psychostimulants that alter neurotransmitters in the brain and can help increase energy levels, improve alertness and increase focus. These include amphetamines such as Adderall and methylphenidates such as Ritalin and Concerta. These include antidepressants like Wellbutrin, Effexor and Viloxazine. Non-stimulant drugs, which do not impact neurotransmitters, are prescribed to people suffering from the inattentive presentation of ADHD and include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine).
Therapy will help you learn how to manage your symptoms, and alter your behavior. Your therapist will help you create strategies for managing time and learn how to organize yourself. They will teach you how to manage your emotions, and help you develop positive relationships. They may also recommend marriage and family counseling or classes that help improve communication.
Disorganization is another common symptom of ADHD and can make it difficult to complete tasks or remain organized at home or at work. It can be difficult to remember deadlines or appointments. You might also lose important documents and have difficulty keeping your workspace neat and clean. Behavioral therapy may include skills training to calm your mind, improve sleep quality and develop coping skills.
Many people suffering from ADD/ADHD have trouble falling asleep at night. They are often awakened by racing thoughts or unrestful sleep. They are unable to stick to a routine and tend to delay tasks, leading to being unable to finish tasks or delaying projects. Behavioral therapy can help you to be more disciplined, improve your ability to prioritize and reduce the amount of caffeine and nicotine in your diet.