ADHD Assessment - Getting a Diagnosis
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD) is a multifaceted condition. It has three types and can present with varying symptoms. It can also be confused with other mental health disorders and physical ailments.
To that end, getting an accurate ADHD assessment is crucial. Your therapist or doctor will need to fill out questionnaires, talk with you and other people, and review any pertinent documents.
Symptoms
A health care provider will evaluate the patient's behavior or, for adults the school and childhood experiences. They will also take into consideration the person's physical and mental health history, mood and lifestyle and family factors. They may interview people who know the person such as parents, family members and teachers, to get information on their relationship with the person and how the symptoms affect their daily lives.
To be able to receive an assessment, a person must be exhibiting symptoms in at least two environments, including at home, school and work, and cause dysfunction in daily life. The symptoms must have been present for at minimum for six months. adhd assessment cost must be inappropriate to the person's development level. For children, the symptoms must have been present prior to age 12. They aren't caused by other disorders, like depression or anxiety.
Inattention is the most frequent indication that a person is unable to stay focused or on task. They can also lose things frequently or forget appointments and make a few mistakes at school or at work. They may also spend a lot of time 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 might disrupt others, make snap decisions without considering the consequences, and have trouble getting their turn.
A health care provider may also look for other ailments like depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders. The provider will also ask about the patient's family history and give them a series tests to assess their ability to concentrate and think quickly. They will also test their ability to stay organized.
Diagnosis
A health professional must perform an assessment before a patient can be diagnosed with ADHD or ADD or ADD as it was previously known. This will include a comprehensive description and rating scales completed both by the person as well as caregivers. It may also include medical history of the family, records of work and school and other pertinent information. A physical examination may be required of the person being examined. A medical exam is required to rule out any conditions or diseases that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD like brain tumors, problems with vision hearing issues and thyroid disorders, depression, and head injuries.
In certain instances the psychiatric examination may be required in addition to a medical exam. In these instances, the evaluator interviews the patient along with other important people in the life of the patient, such a spouse parents, siblings, and spouse for children, as well as teachers and coaches for adult on their observations and experiences with the patient. Personal insight gleaned from these interviews can often help clarify what's happening to the patient and which tests might be needed to determine if the individual is suffering from ADHD.
It can be a daunting task to go through the process of seeking an assessment, particularly if you are worried that you might not have ADHD. You may also be concerned that your relationships or career will suffer if they are diagnosed with a disorder. Asking friends, family members and colleagues to recommend a specialist with experience in ADHD assessments could be beneficial. It is also a good idea to inquire with the individual's insurance company to find out which specialists are covered by their insurance and to know what the assessment will cost.
Treatment
Treatment for ADHD can help control symptoms that can cause issues at work or school as well as in your relationships or in your personal life. The first step is to get a diagnosis, and 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 a national mental health association to find a list of specialists in your area. Some insurance plans also offer an approved list of health care providers by specialty. You may find that many members of a support group for ADHD sufferers have worked with certain professionals and are able to make recommendations.
A health care specialist who assesses ADHD will likely ask you to fill out several scales of ratings that are standardized or questionnaires on the behavior you are experiencing. These ratings are based on research that compares your behavior to those of others who do not suffer from ADHD.
If you fit the criteria of ADD, your doctor may recommend you to an expert for further tests in order to rule out other possible mental or physical disorders. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from sleep disorders, depression or other mood disorders. They might also suffer from learning disabilities that cause them to have difficulty reading and writing. These conditions can cause similar symptoms to those afflicted by ADHD and it is important to recognize them to treat them effectively.
If your symptoms are discovered the doctor will prescribe the best course of action, which will include either psychotherapy or medications. Behavioral therapy helps you learn to track your behavior and alter it when needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy can enhance your thinking abilities and manage your emotions. Psychotherapy can assist you in improving your interpersonal relationships as well as resolve problems in your marriage or with your family.
Medication
There are many drugs that can be used to treat ADHD in adults and children. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine help to regulate brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are often the first medications prescribed to treat ADHD. They are available as immediate-release pills (short-acting) or modified-release tablets which provide a consistent dose throughout the day. The effectiveness of these medications varies among individuals so it could take some time to find the right dosage and medication that is right 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 as required. ADHD is usually treated using behavioral therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy for adults. There are many other therapies that can aid people suffering from ADHD like yoga and mindfulness meditation.
Every medication has the potential for negative side effects, therefore it is essential to speak to your doctor about any concerns you have. It is also essential to inform your doctor about all the other medications you or your child take, both prescription and over-the-counter. Certain medications may interact with stimulant medications and can cause 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 follow the directions on how to take the medication. Inform your doctor about any modifications to your diet, as certain foods may interfere with how the medication is absorbed. Young people who are who are taking stimulant medication may suffer a slight delay in growth and an increase in blood pressure or heart rate.
Therapy
If a child, or an adult is diagnosed with ADHD, the healthcare provider will create a treatment plan for them, which includes therapy and medication. They will assist you in determining the correct dosage and monitor the reaction of your child or yourself to the medication.
There are many types of medications available to treat ADHD. Psychostimulants, which act on neurotransmitters within the brain, can help increase energy and alertness and improve focus. These include amphetamines such as Adderall and methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta. They also include antidepressants like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Non-stimulant drugs, which don't affect neurotransmitters, are prescribed for people with the inattention-deficit manifestation of ADHD and include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine).
Therapy will help you learn to manage your symptoms and alter your behavior. Your therapist will guide you create strategies for managing time and learn how to organize yourself. They'll show you ways to deal with your emotions and help build relationships that are positive. They might also suggest marriage and family counseling or classes that help improve communication.
Disorganization is a common ADHD sign. It can make it hard to stay on track or complete tasks at home or work. You might find it difficult to remember deadlines or appointments. You could also lose important paperwork and have difficulty keeping your workspace clean and clean. Behavioral therapy may include skills training to help you relax your mind, improve your sleep quality and practice coping anxiety.
Many people suffering from ADD/ADHD have difficulty falling asleep at night. They are often awakened by a flurry of thoughts or a lack of sleep. They are unable to stick to the schedule and often delay the completion of tasks. This results in unfinished projects or tasks. Behavioral therapy can help you learn to develop better self-discipline, improve your ability to prioritize tasks and reduce the amount of nicotine and caffeine in your diet.