ADHD Testing - The First Step to Diagnosing ADHD
A thorough ADHD evaluation involves a clinical interview with the person who is being evaluated and one or more standardized questionnaires designed to evaluate symptoms. Teachers and parents are typically also interviewed.
To be diagnosed with ADHD adults or children must exhibit symptoms in at least two or more situations and the symptoms aren't caused by another medical problem like seizures or thyroid disorders.
History
The first step in getting an diagnosis of ADHD is to talk to your primary care physician. They could refer you to an expert in mental health care, who will do an assessment that includes a thorough history and physical exam. The test includes standardized scales for assessing behavior for ADHD and ADD symptom lists and psychological tests.
In general, ADHD is more often recognized in children than in adults. However online adhd testing can affect anyone at any age. Adults with ADHD who are not treated can have problems at work, in their relationships, and are more prone to substance abuse and depression. It is vital to get an accurate diagnosis so that treatment can begin.
Although there are references to children with behavioral issues similar to ADHD dating back as far as the 18th Century, the modern history of ADHD begins with the observations of Sir Frederick Still in 1902. Sir Frederick Still was a famous child psychiatrist who noticed that many of his patients were easily distracted and could not stay focused on tasks. He believed these symptoms were due to the way their brains worked 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, the condition was classified as an hyperactivity-related attention deficit disorder, or ADD. The APA did not recognize hyperactivity as an essential condition until 1980, when they released DSM-III. The ADD subtype was dropped and the resulting designation became ADHD.
KMN Psych's ADHD testing process is thorough and thoroughly assesses the patterns of behavior and cognitive thinking that can either confirm or rule out the ADHD diagnosis. This information aids in the creation of specific interventions such as educational accommodations, treatment and plans that boost productivity, daily functioning and long-term performance.
During the initial visit the clinician takes a detailed account of the patient's problematic behaviors and the impact they have on his or her home life, school performance, and professional career. The clinician will also gather details about the family history of the person and will conduct a family interview. They will use standardized behavioral rating scales for ADHD and the ADD/HD symptoms lists, as well as psychological tests that examine working memory, executive function abilities (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. The medical history is gathered and includes prescription, over-the prescription and illicit drugs. The examiner will also test vision and hearing. The examiner will also look for any other health or behavioral disorders that may be similar to the symptoms of ADHD. It is important to screen for co-existing disorders such as anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities. When focusing on ADHD symptoms on their own they can be missed.
The person being assessed will be interviewed by the psychologist or psychiatric nursing practitioner conducting the assessment. They will ask about the person's behavior in school as well as at home and at work. They will also discuss family and social history, if appropriate. The psychologist may ask the person to complete one or more standardized ADHD rating scales, which are questionnaires that utilize research to measure the behavior of people who have and those people who do not have ADHD. The person being tested must answer the questionnaires honestly and openly. They should not repress any information out of shame or embarrassment.
During the interview, the clinician will review the notes and records from previous assessments. They will search for a clear pattern of symptoms that are consistent over time and that don't change in severity or frequency. They will take into account the severity of the symptoms and how they impact the person's daily life.
In certain instances, an examiner may recommend a medical exam or laboratory tests in order to determine the physical cause for the symptoms. These include thyroid problems and seizure disorder. These medical tests are not part of a diagnosis but they are essential in identifying other health issues which could be causing or mimicking ADHD symptoms.
A timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial to ensure a person gets the help they require at school, at work and in their community. A ADHD diagnosis can provide a wide range of accommodations and treatment options that can improve daily functioning, productivity and long-term success. In addition, a proper diagnosis can help people understand their individual challenges and pinpoint the strategies and coping strategies that are most effective for their needs.
Psychological Tests
If you are concerned that you or your children might be suffering from ADHD and you suspect that they may be suffering from it, you should speak with a health professional who is certified to diagnose and treat this condition. The doctor you visit will ask you various questions to determine if the signs you or your child is experiencing are consistent with the requirements for ADHD. The doctor will also carry out a psychological evaluation that may include cognitive and behavioral assessments. The evaluation is crucial because it helps differentiate ADHD from other conditions that exhibit similar symptoms, such as anxiety or depression.
During the diagnostic interview your health care provider will ask you a set of questions that are standard for your behavior and its impact on your life. The doctor will likely interview your teachers and parents to get a complete understanding of the symptoms you are experiencing. This will aid in determining if they are caused by ADHD or if other factors such as stress or medical issues may be the cause.
Your evaluator will also want to know about your family history and any other mental health issues you have experienced. It may be helpful to write down your concerns and the specific behaviors that concern you, to ensure that you do not forget any information. You may be asked to complete questionnaires about your mood and performance. These include the Adult ADHD Rating Scale and the Computerized Assessment of Attention and Symptoms(CAARS).
Behavioural observations in a variety of environments, like at home, school or at work, as well when you play is a crucial component of the ADHD clinical evaluation. During these observations your evaluation specialist will note the frequency and intensity as well as impact of your symptoms on your daily life. They can also utilize a standard observation form to record results.
Some behavioral interventions that your evaluator may recommend include an organized behavior plan, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and parent training. These methods can help your child or you how to deal with the symptoms of ADHD. They can also help you establish a structure and cohesion in your home at school, as well as at work, to minimize the stress caused by impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Counseling
A proper diagnosis is essential for a successful treatment. This process is very individual and requires lots of clinical judgment. It typically involves analyzing data taken from a variety of sources. This involves analyzing the scales of behavior and education completed parents, teachers, and children, observing the person, and watching them in different situations (e.g. at home or school, and at 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 usually takes between one and two hours. Some clinicians will ask parents and teachers to fill out online questionnaires and send them directly to the clinic. Others will conduct a parent-teacher examination during the first appointment. The assessment will also include a review of past evaluations and treatment records.
In some cases, a physician may ask information from people who have direct knowledge of the patient's symptoms, such as family members or friends, religious and scout leaders, coaches, and teachers. The doctor will want to know how long the symptoms have been present and the severity. They will also determine if the person suffers from other mental health issues that may be contributing to their ADHD symptoms, for example depression or anxiety.
Once the results are in The doctor will go over them with the individual. They will also discuss the best ways to help manage the symptoms. The clinician will often recommend specialized counseling such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These therapies are specifically designed to address many of the challenges that individuals with ADHD confront, such as impulsivity and trouble with planning, organizing and executing. They can also provide practical strategies to manage daily tasks and relationships, and teaching strategies for self-care and emotional regulation. In certain instances medications may be suggested to help manage the symptoms.