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ADHD Assessments There is currently no one test that can be used to determine if an individual suffers from ADHD. Specialists use a variety tools to gather information and observe the symptoms of a person. These include standardized clinical interviewing and rating scales, observational ratings and a number of psychometric/neuropsychological tests (including intelligence testing). They are a vital element of the comprehensive evaluation process required to screen, assess, diagnose and monitor treatments. Assessment Process Most ADHD tests include a thorough interview with the person being assessed. A clinician such as a psychologist, doctor or clinical social worker will conduct the test. The doctor will ask the person about their history and present symptoms. Many evaluators employ standardized behavior rating scales. These tests are based on research comparing the behaviors of people with ADHD and those without. They are not diagnostic by themselves however they provide important objective data to the assessment. They include the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale and the Teacher-Parent Report Form from the Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC). Adults can be assessed with a standard ADHD rating scale, such as the Wender Utah Rating Scale. The clinician will use a behavioral check-list for both adults and children. This looks for other conditions that may co-occur with ADHD for example, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder and depression or anxiety. The evaluator will also examine the person's past and current medications. The clinician will also review medical records, and gather information about the person's surroundings and family. The evaluator may ask whether the person's parents, or other relatives, have ADHD and what signs they experienced. Psychometric and neuropsychological tests can provide important information to assist the evaluator to diagnose ADHD, especially when there is some doubt regarding the diagnosis. These tests aren't useful as the primary method to diagnose ADHD because of their insensitivity and specificity. They don't take into account the complexity of daily adult life. A more recent test, SPECT brain imaging, gives valuable information about how the brain works during a short periods of time. The results are only useful for diagnosing certain kinds of brain injuries or illnesses. They do not accurately reflect the way the brain functions in everyday situations like working, school and in relationships. It is best to consult an expert in mental healthcare who is experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. The best way to find the right person is to get an appointment with the doctor, therapist or other professional. Symptoms People with ADHD are unable to focus and retaining self-control. This can cause issues at school, work or in relationships. It also makes it difficult to manage daily frustrations in a healthy manner. As a result, untreated ADHD symptoms can lead to job loss, broken friendships and other severe consequences. To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms of a person must last throughout the adolescent and childhood years. These symptoms should also be a hindrance in their ability to function normally, and must be present prior to the age of 12. The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD are inattention and impulsivity. Inattention symptoms include difficulty staying on task, missing important information, and having trouble remembering things. The person could also display poor organizational skills or have difficulties following directions and focusing on many tasks at a time. Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms include fidgeting, being unable to sit still, having excess energy, and being talkative. The person who suffers from this type of ADHD may also have trouble being patient or interrupting other people. Children often display these kinds of ADHD symptoms as they enter school. They may struggle in school due to academic demands and become frustrated by their inability to organize themselves or focus. They may also struggle with interpersonal relationships due to their tendency to rage. These symptoms can last into adulthood and cause issues at work, with romantic partners, or even with family members. People with untreated ADHD may feel embarrassed or blame themselves, believing they're not smart enough to be successful or they believe something is wrong with them. It is crucial to understand that ADHD is not a sign that you are less intelligent or capable. To determine if you have ADHD, your primary care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment. They will ask you about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also interview you as well as your partner and other family members and friends. They will utilize behavior rating scales and symptom checklists in order to determine your symptoms. They will also review your medical history and education. They may also refer you to physical examinations or psychological tests to rule out any other ailments. Diagnosis You or your child has been struggling in school. You may be worried about the dreaded snow day or the most recent teacher evaluation. You've heard about ADHD, but you aren't sure what it means. Is your child just lazy or is she suffering from a problem that's easier to treat than? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. You must determine if the issue is due to excessive screen time, poor parenting, or a medical condition. Fortunately, your family doctor can help you decide if an ADHD assessment is the right one for you. Typically an ADHD assessment includes an interview, a examination of symptoms, and the use of checklists and rating scales. Doctors will ask questions about the patient's medical history, their progress since the age of a child and their professional and academic experiences, driving records as well as their marital and family history. The examiner will also check for other disorders like learning disabilities or anxiety and mood disorders. The person being evaluated should be able to discuss the problems openly and honestly. It is crucial that the person who is being evaluated is not hiding in shame or out of fear of being judged. This will assist the examiner recognize how ADHD symptoms affect everyday life and help to suggest treatments. For a diagnosis of ADHD to be established, a number of symptoms must have been present prior to age of 12 and must be “impairing” at least in two important settings like school or home. Impairment is more than being forgetful or having trouble managing assignments; it's getting fired from a job due to tardiness, failing to complete a project on time or causing tension and discord in a relationship. Many doctors will interview the patient as well as loved ones, such as a spouse, sibling, or parent. They might also seek feedback from people that spend a lot of time with patients, like a nanny or coach. This type of personal insight will reveal information that can't be gleaned from questionnaires. Psychologists will often conduct an examination of the body and conduct laboratory tests, such as urine and blood tests, to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. Treatment A health care provider may conduct an ADHD evaluation to determine whether there is a root cause such as a mood illness or another physical condition causing similar symptoms. A thorough assessment involves looking over the patient's mental and medical histories, evaluating their past and current behavior as well as their school performance. It also includes calling family members teachers, parents, and other caregivers in order to obtain complete information about the person's behavior in various environments. Dr. Frank says that people who suffer from ADHD benefit from a combination treatment. Some people are prescribed medications to improve focus and concentration, and decrease the impulsiveness. These include stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall or non-stimulant medications that take longer to work, but can improve attention skills such as Intuniv and Clonidine. The majority of treatment plans include behavior therapy, particularly those for children. For instance, a counselor might help them learn ways to organize their lives to make it easier for them to organize their possessions or use mindfulness meditation to improve impulse control and help them manage their time. Family or marital counseling can also be helpful for people suffering from ADHD, as it teaches them the skills of communication and problem-solving that can help them deal with their issues at home and at work. Many people suffering from ADHD will also find that they can reduce their symptoms if they eat an appropriate diet, get enough rest and exercise, as well as reduce their intake of the consumption of alcohol and junk food. They may also find it beneficial to seek out support from friends and family or join a support organization or participate in an ADHD coach training program which can provide them with tips and tools to manage their symptoms. I Am Psychiatry suffering from ADHD should see their GP for regular medication checkups to understand how their treatment works and to be aware of any possible adverse effects. Doctors can refer patients with ADHD for additional evaluation or for a diagnosis to a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist.