ADHD Assessment - Getting a Diagnosis
Attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) or ADD is a complex disorder. It can be classified into three subtypes and the symptoms may vary. Also, it can be confused with other mental health disorders as well as physical conditions.
To that end, getting an accurate ADHD assessment is crucial. Your doctor or therapist will need to complete questionnaires, conduct interviews with you and other people and look over any relevant documents.
Symptoms
To determine ADHD A health professional will look at the person's present or for adults their childhood behavior as well as school experiences. They will also consider the person's mental and physical health history, mood, lifestyle factors affecting family and friends. They may also inquire with people who are close to the person, like teachers, parents and family members about their relationship with them and how their symptoms affect them.
To be diagnosed, one must be exhibiting 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 for at least for six months. They also must have been not appropriate for the person's development level. For children, the symptom must have started before age 12. They shouldn't be triggered by other conditions, like anxiety or depression.
The most frequently reported characteristic of ADHD is inattention, which means the sufferer has difficulty staying focused or keeping their attention on the task at hand. They can also frequently lose things or forget appointments and make careless mistakes at work or at school. They may also spend a lot of time daydreaming or having trouble 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 might disrupt others, make quick decisions without thinking about the consequences, and have difficulty waiting their turn.
A doctor will also look for indications of other ailments, such as anxiety, sleep disorders, or depression. The provider will also ask about the patient's family history and will give them a series of tests to determine their ability to focus and think quickly. great post to read need to be organized.
Diagnosis
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, or ADD as it was previously known medical professionals must conduct an assessment. This will comprise a thorough description and rating scales completed both by the person and caregivers. It may also include medical records from the family, details of work and school, and other relevant details. A physical examination could be required for the person being examined. A medical exam is essential to rule out any conditions or diseases that may cause symptoms similar ADHD like brain tumors, vision issues hearing issues, depression, thyroid disorders, and head injuries.
In certain instances an evaluation of psychiatric issues may be required in addition to a medical exam. In these situations the evaluator will interview the patient along with other important individuals in the patient's life including spouses, parents, and siblings for children, as well as coaches and teachers for adults to discuss their experiences and observations of the person. Personal insight gleaned from these interviews can often help to clarify what is happening to the person and which tests may be required to determine if the patient is suffering from ADHD.
It can be difficult to go through the process of seeking an assessment, particularly in the event that you are concerned that you might not have ADHD. You may also be concerned that your career or relationships could be affected if you are diagnosed with a disorder. It is beneficial to ask family members, friends and coworkers for recommendations for an experienced specialist with previous experience performing ADHD assessments. It is also a good idea to check with the individual's insurance company to find out which specialists are covered by their insurance and to find out how much the evaluation will cost.
Treatment
The treatment you receive for ADHD can help you gain control of the symptoms that could cause significant issues at work or school as well as in your relationships and in your home life. The first step is getting a diagnosis. The most important part of the process is locating a health care professional who is qualified to assess your symptoms. You can ask your doctor or your therapist for a recommendation or contact the local chapter of a national mental health association for a list of professionals in your region. Certain insurance plans also offer a list of approved health care providers based on their specialization. If you're a part of a support group for people with ADHD you may discover that some of the members have worked with specific professionals and can provide suggestions.
A medical professional who evaluates ADHD will likely ask you to fill out various scales of rating that are standardized or questionnaires regarding the behavior you're experiencing. These ratings are based on research that compares your behavior to those of people who don't have ADHD.
If you meet the criteria of ADD If you meet the criteria of ADD, your doctor might refer you to an expert for further testing to rule out other physical or psychiatric issues. Many people who suffer from ADHD also have sleep disorders, depression or other mood disorders. They could also be suffering from learning disabilities that cause them to have difficulty writing and reading. These conditions can exhibit similar symptoms to ADHD and must be identified to be treated effectively.
If your symptoms are discovered, your doctor will prescribe a course of action that includes either medication or psychotherapy. Behavioral therapy helps you learn to track your own behavior and modify it when necessary. Cognitive behavioral therapy can improve your thinking abilities and manage your emotions. Psychotherapy can also help you improve your interpersonal relationships and resolve issues in your marriage or family.
Medication
There are many medications that can help treat ADHD in both adults and children. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine work by helping boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. They are typically the first drugs prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications are available as immediate-release pills or modified release tablets, which deliver an exact dose throughout the day. The effectiveness of these drugs differs for each person so it could take some time to locate the right dose and dosage that is right for you or your child.
The initial treatment plan will consist of regular monitoring of symptoms and side effects. The doctor will modify the medication as required. ADHD is often treated with behavioral therapy, for example cognitive-behavioral and dialectical therapy for adults. There are a myriad of other therapies that can aid people suffering from ADHD, such as yoga and mindfulness meditation.
Every medication can cause adverse effects, so it is essential to speak to your physician about any concerns you have. Inform your doctor about all other medications you or your child take including prescriptions as well as over-the-counter. Certain drugs interact with stimulant drugs and can result in dangerous side effects.
For many people suffering from ADHD, finding the right dosage and medication will require time and patience. Discuss all your options with your doctor and adhere to the instructions for how to take the medication. It is also essential to inform your physician about any changes to your diet, as some foods can affect the way that the medication is absorption by your body. In addition, some young people taking stimulant medication may have a slight delay in growth and an increase in heart rate or blood pressure.
Therapy
If you have a child or adult, is diagnosed with ADHD, the healthcare provider will develop a treatment plan for them that includes therapy and medication. They will help you determine the right dosage and will monitor the reaction of your child or yourself to the medication.
There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. The most commonly used are psychostimulants that alter neurotransmitters in the brain and may help boost energy levels, improve concentration and alertness. Amphetamines like Adderall and methylphenidates such as Ritalin and Concerta are examples. They also include antidepressants such as Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Non-stimulant drugs, that do not impact neurotransmitters, are prescribed for those with the inattention-deficit presentation of ADHD and include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine).
Therapy will help you learn to manage your symptoms and modify your behaviors. Your therapist will help you how to utilize time management techniques and devise organizational strategies. They'll teach you coping mechanisms to manage your emotions and assist you to build positive relationships. They may also recommend counseling for your family or marriage, or classes that improve communication.
Disorganization is a common ADHD symptoms. It can make it difficult to stay organized and finish tasks at home or work. You might find it difficult to remember deadlines or appointments. You may also lose important paperwork and have difficulty keeping your workspace neat and clean. Behavioral therapy can include a program of training to help you calm your mind, get better quality sleep and work on managing anxiety.
Many adults with ADD/ADHD have difficulties sleeping through the night. They are often awakened by racing thoughts or unrestful sleep. They are unable to stick to a schedule and tend to delay their work. This can lead to unfinished projects or tasks that are not completed. Behavioral therapy can help you to improve your self-control and improve your ability to prioritize tasks and reduce the amount of nicotine and caffeine in your diet.