How to Be Assessed For ADHD
If you suspect that your child or you are suffering from ADHD it is crucial to be tested for the condition by a certified mental health care professional. The test will consist of the use of a questionnaire, standardized behavior ratings scales and information from family members and other individuals who know the person.
Some practitioners also conduct tests of academic ability and cognitive capacity. It is important to find a professional who has experience evaluating children and adults for ADHD.
Interviews
The initial step of the assessment process is a clinic interview, during which an expert from the health field will discuss with you your symptoms and how they impact your life. You may be required to fill out questionnaires or take part in neuropsychological tests which includes tests that test different cognitive functions including attention and memory. Your healthcare doctor will analyze all of this data and make a diagnosis.
For children and teenagers this could mean being given an official ADHD diagnosis. For adults, the diagnosis might come later. Many people who are seeking an ADHD assessment are struggling with school or working. They might have been disciplined for their behavior or had issues with their relationships with family or friends.
For adults, the diagnosis can be life-changing. It allows them to comprehend why they struggle to keep the track of their activities or making mistakes at work, or forgetting important dates and events. A medical explanation can reduce feelings of shame and guilt, and improve self-esteem.
It can be hard to determine if an adult suffers from ADHD, as the DSM-V symptom guide is designed toward diagnosing children and there aren't many tests that are objective and can prove the disorder in adults. However, a thorough interview with a health specialist who is specialized in ADHD and spends time with them can lead to a positive diagnosis.
It's important to pay attention to the person with whom you're interviewing. Make sure you sit straight, maintain eye contact and limit the use of electronics (silent your phone and follow good smartphone etiquette, for instance).
You should also conduct research about the company prior to the interview. This will aid in anticipating questions and increase your confidence. Remember to thank the interviewer right away and follow up with a note. This is a great way to show that you're interested in the position and that you want to be successful.
Tests
Different tests can be utilized to determine if there is ADHD. These include interviews with a psychologist, information gathered from other people (for example, questionnaires for parents and teachers) and standardized rating scales for behavior, and psychometric tests. The type of test an expert uses depends on the age of the individual and also the nature of the symptoms being examined.
For children, a professional may also ask to see school performance reports and discuss with the child's teachers, religious or Scout leaders, coaches and other caregivers who are familiar with them. For adults, an expert might also want to talk with friends, spouses, and coworkers.
The experts also use direct observation of the individual's behaviours in natural environments to evaluate their frequency and intensity and to examine the ways they affect the person's ability to function. The experts will also likely want to evaluate whether the symptoms of a person are a result of other factors, like anxiety, depression or a learning disorder.
Some of the tests used to diagnose ADHD have been proven by research, whereas others aren't. For a test to be valid, it must prove that it is able to differentiate between those who have the disorder and those who do not have the disorder. It must also be free of bias.
It is crucial that the test is evaluated by an experienced mental health professional. This person must be knowledgeable of the diagnostic criteria, which are contained in a large book referred to as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders or DSM. Therapists who are not trained in the field of diagnosing ADHD might not be able interpret the results of an assessment accurately and recommend the best treatment. A psychologist or psychiatrist with specialized training in ADHD could be able to assist. A psychiatrist or psychologist who is specialized in ADHD is often identified by a referral from your family doctor, or using an online service that connects you with an therapist. For example, BetterHelp is a great starting point. The service can connect you with a therapist who's licensed and accredited in just 48 hours.
Assessments
The people who are evaluated for ADHD may undergo a range of tests and evaluations. Most often the doctor will talk to you or your child and will use questionnaires and checklists. Often, doctors ask other people in your life -- parents or siblings for adults, teachers or coaches for children -- to write a few sentences about their observations of your child's behavior and functioning. These personal observations often reveal details that cannot be gleaned from a questionnaire or rating scale.
The healthcare professional will examine a pattern of symptoms that last for a long period of time. The symptoms should be an immediate distraction at work, school, or home. The symptoms must be present for at least six months before they are classified as ADHD. The healthcare professional will also look into whether your child's behavior could be better explained by another mental illness, such as anxiety or depression.
Many people who are evaluated for ADHD have a teacher first notice their symptoms. It's important that the person who is evaluating your child or your own has a good relationship with their teachers and is familiarized with their school and the requirements for education. Participating with the teacher during the assessment process can help ensure that both you and the doctor know the complete picture of your child's performance at school and in other activities.
Bring any paperwork, such as old school report cards, copies of psychological tests, or performance evaluations. The health care professional may examine your medical and family history, if they have any, of ADHD.
Some tools to assess ADHD include scoring scales or questionnaires that evaluate the severity of symptoms over time. These instruments help determine if a person is suffering from a disorder and what the symptoms are. Some of these instruments are based on DSM-5 criteria to diagnose ADHD. In general, these assessment tools are rated for specificity and sensitivity. Sensitivity is the capacity of a tool to accurately determine if someone has an illness. Specificity refers to how well it can distinguish between those without that condition.
Treatment
The drugs for ADHD don't solve the problem however they can help improve symptoms and make people perform better. Medications may be used alone or in conjunction with other treatment methods, including psychotherapy, parent training and lifestyle modifications. Psychotherapy can help people understand their ADHD and learn coping skills to manage their symptoms. Lifestyle adjustments include a regular sleep schedule, exercise and healthy eating, as well as getting enough sleep. Being surrounded by family and friends who are supportive is important.
assessed for adhd will use clinical interviews with behavior rating scales, behavior ratings and symptom checklists to determine if you or your child has the characteristics for ADHD. They will also rule other mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, or medical issues like thyroid issues that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated with psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, but they may also benefit from medications to improve their focus and organization, as well as their impulse control. Therapy can help people develop how to manage their ADHD and help them develop better time management and budgeting strategies, learning to recognize their triggers and managing anger and stress. Some therapy programs focus on conflicts in relationships which could be a problem for adults with ADHD, as they may be unable to meet financial obligations, committing to commitments and following through.
Children suffering from ADHD are often treated first by combining medication and behavioral therapy. Medications work to regulate the neurotransmission of monoamines in the brain. They are available either as stimulants or as non-stimulants. The most frequently prescribed medications are methylphenidate and the atomoxetine. The evidence of the effectiveness of other stimulant medications as well as their combinations is still expanding.
Cognitive therapy for ADHD is aimed at improving concentration and completing tasks. It also aims to discover and correct "thought distortions", which can cause negative emotions and the feeling that options are limited. This kind of therapy can address self-esteem and emotional regulation.
It is important to seek treatment when you or your child is suffering from ADHD. If not treated, ADHD can negatively impact every aspect of a person's daily life. It can affect the performance of a person at work and school, cause relationship conflicts, and even lead to addiction. It can also cause problems at home. People with ADHD who have difficulty at work could also be eligible for reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.