ADHD Testing - The First Step to Diagnosing ADHD
A thorough ADHD evaluation includes a thorough interview with the person who is being assessed and one or more questionnaires that are designed to assess symptoms. Teachers and parents are often interviewed, too.
To be diagnosed with ADHD children or adults should exhibit a symptomatic behavior in two or more settings and the symptoms don't stem from another medical issue, such as a thyroid disorder or seizure disorders.
History
Talking to your primary healthcare provider is the first step to getting an ADHD diagnosis. You could be referred to an expert in mental health who will perform an assessment, which includes a complete history and physical examination. Standardized behavior rating scales for ADHD, ADD symptom checklists and psychological tests are typically included in this test.
ADHD is diagnosed more often in children than in adults. The disorder can affect anyone of any age. Adults with ADHD who are not treated can have issues at work, in their relationships, and could be more prone to substance abuse and depression. It is essential to obtain a correct diagnosis so that treatment can begin.
Although there were reports of children who had behavioral issues similar to those of ADHD in the 18th century, the modern ADHD history began with Sir Frederick Still's observations in 1902. Still was a well-known pediatrician who noted that many of his patients were easily distracted and had trouble staying focused on tasks. He believed that these symptoms were due to the way their brains functioned and not the result of bad parenting or lazy attitudes.
The American Psychological Association published its first edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1952. At the time, it was known as attention deficit disorder (ADD) without hyperactivity. The APA did not recognize hyperactivity as an essential condition until 1980, when it published DSM-III. The ADD subtype changed to ADHD at that time.
KMN The Psych's ADHD testing process thoroughly evaluates the behavioral and cognitive patterns of a person that can either confirm or rule out the ADHD diagnosis. This information can be used to design customized interventions as well as educational accommodations and treatment plans that boost productivity, daily functioning and long-term success.
During the initial visit the clinician will take a detailed description of the individual's problematic behavior, as well as their impact on their personal life, school performance and work. The doctor will also collect information regarding the family history of the person and will conduct a family interview. They will use standardized behavioral rating scales for ADHD and ADD/HD symptom lists and psychological tests that examine working memory, executive function skills (abilities such as making decisions and planning) spatial and visual abilities (related to space), and reasoning (thinking).
Physical Exam
The ADHD screening process involves a physical examination that measures the height, body weight and pulse. A medical history is taken, including any prescription, over-the-counter or illicit drugs that are regularly taken. The examiner will evaluate vision and hearing. The examiner will also look for any other disorders of the brain or body are present that resemble the symptoms of ADHD. It is essential to check for co-existing conditions such as depression, anxiety or learning disabilities. When you are focusing on ADHD symptoms on their own the conditions could be missed.
The person who is being assessed will be interviewed by the psychologist or psychiatric nursing practitioner conducting the assessment. They will inquire about the individual's behavior at school, home, and at work. They will also discuss family and social history of the person, as appropriate. The psychologist will ask the individual to fill out one or more of the standardized ADHD ratings scales. These are questionnaires which use research to compare behaviour of people who have ADHD and those without. The person being tested should answer the questionnaires in a clear and honest manner. They should not repress any information to avoid embarrassment or shame.
During the interview the clinician will go through the notes and records from previous assessments. They will look for an identifiable pattern of symptoms that is constant over time and don't change in severity or frequency. They will assess the severity of the symptoms and their impact on a person's daily routine.
In some cases an exam doctor may recommend a medical exam or lab tests to determine if there are physical causes for the symptoms. This could be thyroid issues and seizure disorders. These medical tests are not part of a diagnosis, but can be vital in identifying other health issues that could be contributing to or mimicking ADHD symptoms.
An accurate and timely diagnosis is critical to ensure that an individual receives the help they require in school, at work and in their community. A diagnosis of ADHD could open up many treatment options and accommodations that could improve the quality of life and productivity. Additionally, a correct diagnosis can help individuals comprehend their specific challenges and determine the strategies and coping strategies that are most effective for them.
Psychological Tests
If you suspect that you or your children may be suffering from ADHD then you should seek out a health professional who is certified to diagnose and treat this disorder. The professional you see will ask you various questions to determine if the symptoms you or your child is experiencing match the criteria for ADHD. The doctor will also conduct a thorough psycho assessment, which could include tests for cognitive function and behavioral assessments. The evaluation is crucial as it helps distinguish ADHD from other disorders that have similar symptoms, like anxiety or depression.
During the diagnostic interview your doctor will conduct a series of routine questions regarding your behavior and how it affects your daily life. He or she may also interview your parents or teachers to get an understanding of the symptoms you are experiencing. This will help determine if they are caused by ADHD or whether other factors like stress or medical conditions might be the cause.
Your evaluator might also inquire about your family background and any mental health issues you have had. Write down your concerns and specific behaviors to make sure you don't miss any details. adhd testing adults might be asked to complete questionnaires on your mood and performance. These include the Adult ADHD Rating Scale and the Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Attention and Symptoms(CAARS).
Behavioural observations in a variety of situations, including at school, home or at work, as well in play, is an important component of the ADHD clinical evaluation. During these observations the evaluator will record the frequency and severity of your symptoms as well as their impact on your life. They can utilize a standard observation form to record the results.
Your evaluator could suggest an organized behavioral plan, cognitive-behavioral treatment, or training for parents as behavioral strategies. These methods can help you or your child deal with the symptoms associated with ADHD. They can also help you establish order and consistency in your home, at school, and at work, to minimize the disturbances caused by impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Counseling
Getting the right diagnosis is crucial to get the most effective treatment. This process is very individual and requires a lot of clinical judgment. Typically, it involves analysing data from a variety of sources. This involves evaluating ratings of educational and behavior scales completed by teachers, parents and children, interviewing the individual, and then observing them in various settings (e.g. home, school, and work). The doctor will also look at the symptoms and how they impact the ability to manage daily tasks, relationships, and other aspects of life.
A thorough evaluation typically lasts between one and two hours. Some clinicians will request parents and teachers to fill out online questionnaires, and then forward them directly to the clinic. Others will conduct a parent-teacher evaluation at the beginning of the appointment. The evaluation will also include a review of previous evaluations and treatment records.
In certain situations, a clinician may request information from others who are aware of the patient's symptoms, such as family members or friends, religious or scout leaders, coaches and teachers. The clinician will want to know how the symptoms have been present and their severity. They will also determine if the patient has any other mental health issues that could be contributing to their ADHD symptoms, such as depression or anxiety.
When the results are available the doctor will discuss the results with the patient. They will also discuss the best ways to help manage the symptoms. The physician may suggest special counseling, like dialectical behavior therapy or cognitive therapy. These therapies are specifically designed to tackle many of the challenges that individuals with ADHD confront, such as the impulsivity of children and difficulties with organizing, planning, and following through. They can also teach skills such as emotional regulation and self care and practical strategies for managing the demands of daily life and relationships. In some instances it is possible to prescribe medication to help manage the symptoms.