ADHD Assessment - Getting a Diagnosis
Attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) or ADD is a complicated disorder. It can be classified into three types, and the symptoms can vary. It is also possible to confuse with physical conditions as well as other mental disorders.
It is therefore important to get an accurate ADHD diagnosis. Your doctor or therapist will need to fill out questionnaires, speak with you and others and look at any relevant documents.
Symptoms
To determine ADHD To diagnose ADHD, a health care provider will examine the person's current behavior or, in adults, their childhood behavior and school experiences. They will also take into account the person's mental health as well as physical background, mood, family and lifestyle issues. They may ask people who are close to the person, including parents, teachers and family members, about their relationship and how symptoms affect them.
To be diagnosed, a person must exhibit symptoms in at least two environments, including at home, work or school, and cause problems in their daily life. The symptoms must be present for at least six months. The symptoms must have been incompatible with the person's developmental level. The symptoms must have been noticed in children prior to the age of 12. In how much does an adhd assessment cost , they shouldn't be caused by a different disorder, like anxiety or depression.
The most common sign of ADHD is inattention, which indicates that the sufferer has difficulty staying focused or keeping their mind on track. They might also lose things frequently or forget appointments, and they can also make mistakes in school or at work. They might spend long periods of time daydreaming, have trouble finishing tasks and frequently 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 may disrupt others, make quick decisions without considering consequences and have trouble waiting for their turn.
A doctor may also look for other ailments such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders. The provider will also ask about the family history of the patient and give them a series tests to determine their ability to pay attention and think quickly. They will also test their ability to stay organized.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, or ADD as it was previously known the health professional must conduct an assessment. This will comprise a thorough description of the scale and a rating by both the person and their caregivers. It could also include family medical history, records of school and work, and other relevant information. The person being assessed may be required to undergo an examination. A medical exam is essential to rule out any conditions or diseases which may cause symptoms similar ADHD like brain tumors, vision problems hearing problems and thyroid disorders, depression and head injuries.
In some instances in addition to the medical examination, a psychiatric evaluation might be necessary. In these situations the evaluator is required to talk with the patient as well as other significant people in their life -- such as parents, spouses, siblings for children as well as teachers and coaches for adults -- about their experiences and observations about the patient's behavior. These interviews can give valuable insight into what is happening to the person, and whether or not tests are required to determine if they have ADHD.
It can be a daunting task to go through the process of seeking an assessment, especially in the event that you are concerned that you might not have ADHD. You might also be worried that your relationships or career could be affected if you are diagnosed with a condition. It is beneficial to ask family members, friends and colleagues for recommendations on an experienced specialist with previous experience performing ADHD assessments. You should also check with your insurance provider to find out which specialists are covered and what the assessment will cost.
Treatment
The treatment you receive for ADHD can help you get control of the symptoms that could cause significant issues at school or work as well as in your relationships and in your personal life. The first step is to get an assessment. The most crucial part of this process is to find a qualified health care professional 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 to find a list of specialists in your region. Some insurance plans also offer an approved list of health care providers based on their specialization. You might find that a lot of members of a support group for ADHD sufferers have worked with certain professionals and are able to offer recommendations.
A medical professional who is evaluating ADHD will likely ask you to fill out a number standardized rating scales or questionnaires about the behavior you're experiencing. These ratings are based on research that compares the behavior of people suffering from ADHD with those who do not suffer from it.
If you meet the requirements for ADD If you are diagnosed with ADD, your healthcare specialist may recommend further tests to look for other psychiatric or physical issues. Certain people with ADHD also suffer from sleep disorders, depression, or other mood disorders. They may also have learning disabilities, which cause them to have difficulties writing and reading. These conditions may have similar symptoms to ADHD and need to be recognized to be treated effectively.
Once your symptoms are identified, your doctor will prescribe an action plan that will include medication or psychotherapy. Behavioral therapy will teach you to observe your own behaviors, and change them when needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy can improve the way you think and manage your emotions. Psychotherapy can aid you in improving your interpersonal relationships as well as resolve problems in your marriage, or with your family.
Medication
There are a myriad of drugs that can be used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. Stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamine work by helping boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. These are usually the first medications prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications are available as immediate-release pills or modified-release tablets, which provide an even dose throughout the day. The effectiveness of these medications varies among individuals so it could take some time to find the right dose and dosage that is right for you or your child.
Initial treatment plans will include regular clinical evaluation of symptoms and side-effects. The doctor will alter the medications as needed. Behavioral therapy is frequently recommended for ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy for adults. Other treatments can assist people with ADHD. These include mindfulness meditation and yoga.
Every medication has the potential for side effects, so it is essential to speak to your physician regarding any concerns you might have. Inform your doctor about all other medications you or your child take, including those prescribed as well as over-the-counter. Certain medications interact with stimulant drugs and can cause dangerous side effects.
Finding the right dose of medication and dosage for ADHD can take time and patience. Be sure to discuss all of your options with your physician and follow the instructions to take the medication. It is also essential to inform your physician of any changes in your diet because certain foods may affect the way that the medication is absorption by your body. Some young people taking stimulant medications may also suffer a slight delay in growth, an increase in blood-pressure or heart rate.
Therapy
If a person, whether a child or an adult, is diagnosed with ADHD the healthcare professional will work with them to create an individual treatment plan that includes medication and therapy. They'll help you find the right dosage and track your or your child's reaction to the medication to make sure it is working well for you.
There are many types of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. The most common are psychostimulants, which alter neurotransmitters in the brain and can help increase energy, improve concentration and alertness. Amphetamines like Adderall and methylphenidates such as Ritalin and Concerta are a few examples. These include antidepressants like Wellbutrin, Effexor and Viloxazine. Non-stimulant medications, which don't affect 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 understand how to manage your symptoms and modify your behaviors. Your therapist will teach you to use time management techniques and devise organizational strategies. They'll help you develop coping strategies to manage your emotions and help you build positive relationships. They might also suggest counseling for your family or marriage, or classes to improve communication.
Disorganization is a common ADHD symptom. It can make it hard to stay organized or complete tasks at home or work. It can be difficult to keep track of your appointments or deadlines, misplace important paperwork, or have difficulty keeping your work area clean and tidy. Behavioral therapy could include a program of training to assist you in calming your mind, get better quality sleep, and learn to manage anxiety.
Many adults with ADD/ADHD have trouble falling asleep at night. They are often woken by racing thoughts or restless sleep. They aren't able to follow the same routine and tend to procrastinate, resulting in unfinished tasks or putting off projects. Behavioral therapy helps you build more self-control, increase your ability to prioritize and reduce the amount of caffeine and nicotine in your daily diet.