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ADHD Assessments Currently there is no single test that can be used to determine whether an individual suffers from ADHD. Instead, specialists use different instruments to collect information and assess 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 part of the comprehensive evaluation process required to evaluate, screen the condition, diagnose and monitor treatment. Assessment Process Most ADHD assessments involve a detailed interview between the assessor and the person being evaluated. A clinical professional, such as a psychologist doctor or clinical social worker will conduct the assessment. The doctor will inquire about the person's past and present symptoms. A lot of evaluators employ standardized behavior ratings scales. These tests are based on research studies that compare the behaviors of those with and without ADHD. They aren't diagnostic in their own right but they do provide objective information to the evaluation. They include the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale and the Teacher-Parent Report Form of Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC). Adults can be evaluated using an established ADHD rating scale, such as the Wender Utah Rating Scale. For both adults and children the clinician may also employ a checklist for behavioral issues. This will check for other disorders that may co-occur with ADHD for example, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder and depression or anxiety. how to get an adhd assessment examines the person's previous and current medication. The clinician will also go through medical records, and gather information about the person's environment and family. For instance the evaluator might inquire about whether the patient's parents or other relatives have had ADHD and what their symptoms were like. These tests can be extremely beneficial to the person who is evaluating, especially if the diagnosis is not clear. These tests aren't suitable as the main tool to diagnose ADHD due to their lack of sensitivity and specificity. They also don't reflect the complexity of daily situations that adults face. A more recent test, SPECT brain imaging, provides useful information about how the brain functions over a short periods of time. However the results are useful in the diagnosis of certain types of diseases and injuries that affect the brain. They do not accurately reflect how the brain works in everyday situations like at work, school, and in relationships. It is best to consult an expert in mental health who is experienced in the assessment and management of ADHD. A referral from a doctor or therapist is the best way to locate such an individual. Signs and symptoms People suffering from ADHD have difficulty staying focused and maintaining self-control. This can cause issues at school, work or in personal relationships. It can also be difficult to deal with daily stressors. If left untreated, ADHD symptoms can lead to serious consequences such as loss of employment, broken friendships and many other negative outcomes. To be diagnosed with ADHD the person must be suffering from symptoms that persist throughout childhood and adolescence. These symptoms should also be a hindrance in their ability to function normally and have been present prior to the age of 12. The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD are impulsivity and inattention. Inattention symptoms could include difficulties keeping track of the task at hand, ignoring important information, or having trouble remembering. One may also be lacking organizational skills, or experience difficulties following directions and keeping track of many tasks at the same time. Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms include fidgeting, being unable to sit still, having excess energy, and being talkative. People with this type of ADHD might also have difficulty being patient or interrupting others. Children often display these types of ADHD symptoms when they begin school. They may have a difficult time in school due to the demands of academics and then become frustrated due to their inability to organize themselves or concentration. They may also struggle with interpersonal relationships due their tendency to emotional outbursts. These symptoms can continue into adulthood, causing problems at work, in romantic relationships, as well as with family members. Individuals with untreated ADHD may feel shame or blame themselves, thinking they're not smart enough to achieve success or there's something wrong with them. However, it is important to realize that having ADHD doesn't mean you're less smart or skilled. To diagnose ADHD, your primary care physician or mental health professional will perform a thorough assessment. They will ask about your symptoms and the impact they have on your daily life. They will also interview you as well as your partner and other family members and friends. They will use behavior rating scales and symptom checklists in order to determine your symptoms. They will also examine your medical history and education. They might also refer you for a physical examination or psychological tests in order to rule out any other conditions. Diagnosis You or your child has struggled in school. It could be the dreaded “snow day” or maybe you're concerned about the most recent teacher evaluation. You've heard of ADHD, but you don't really know what it means — is your kid just lazy or is there an issue that is easier to treat than solve? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. You must determine if the issue is caused by excessive screen time, inadequate parenting or a medical condition. Fortunately, your family doctor can help you decide whether an ADHD evaluation is right for you. Generally, an ADHD assessment involves an interview, review of symptoms and use of checklists and rating scales. Doctors will inquire about the patient's medical history, their development since the age of a child as well as their academic and professional experiences, driving records, and their family and marital history. The examiner will also look for other issues, like learning disabilities or anxiety and mood disorders. The person who is being evaluated must be able to discuss the issues honestly and openly. It is important that the person being analyzed is not hiding from embarrassment or because of fear of being judged. This will allow the examiner to understand how ADHD symptoms impact daily life and recommend solutions. To be able to make a diagnosis of ADHD to be made there must be a variety of signs that must have manifested before age of 12 and have been “impairing” at least in two major environments, such as school or at home. Impairment goes beyond being forgetful or struggling to keep up with assignments. It could also mean being dismissed from a job because of tardiness, or failing to complete a task in time, or creating stress and conflict in the relationship. Many doctors interview both the patient and a loved one, such as spouse or sibling. They might also seek opinions from those who spend a great deal of time with the patient like a coach or nanny. This type of personal insight will reveal information that can't be gleaned through questionnaires. Psychiatrists will also typically perform an examination of the body and conduct tests in the laboratory, such as urine and blood tests to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. Treatment A health care provider may perform an ADHD evaluation to determine if there is a root cause such as a mood condition or another physical condition that causes similar symptoms. A thorough assessment involves looking over the patient's mental and medical history, evaluating past and current behavior and school performance, as well as contacting teachers, family members, and other family members to get a more complete picture of how the individual functions in different settings. Dr. Frank says that people who suffer from ADHD benefit from a combination treatment. Some are prescribed medications to help improve concentration and focus and decrease impulsiveness, such as stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall or non-stimulant drugs which take longer to work but can also enhance attention skills like Intuniv and Clonidine. Most treatment plans include the use of behavioral therapy, particularly for children. The therapist might teach them organization strategies to help them keep the track of their activities or practice mindfulness meditation to help improve their impulse control and better manage their time. Marriage or family counseling is also beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD. It helps them develop how to solve problems and develop communication skills which will assist them in dealing with their issues at home and at work. Many people who suffer from ADHD will also discover that they can manage their symptoms if they eat well balanced meals, have enough sleep, exercise and reduce their intake of junk food and drinks. It may also be helpful to ask for support from your family and friends, join a support program or attend an ADHD Coach training program which can provide them with strategies and tools to manage their symptoms. Anyone diagnosed with ADHD must visit their GP regularly for regular medication checkups to ensure they to understand the effectiveness of their treatment and to address any side negative effects. Doctors can also refer patients who suffer from ADHD to an psychologist or psychiatrist to further evaluate and diagnose.