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ADHD Assessments Currently there is no single test that can be used to determine if someone has ADHD. Instead, experts employ a variety of tools to solicit 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 an important component of the overall assessment process, which is needed to screen, evaluate the condition, diagnose and monitor treatment. Assessment Process Most ADHD assessments include a detailed interview with the person being assessed. adhd assessments , such as a psychologist doctor, or clinical social worker will conduct the assessment. The doctor will inquire about the patient's history and present symptoms. Many evaluators use standardized behavior rating scales. assess adhd are based on research comparing the behaviors of people suffering from ADHD and those without. They are not diagnostic in themselves, but add important objective data to the assessment. The Vanderbilt Assessment Scale, the Teacher-Parent report form of the Behavior Assessment System for Children and the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale are all examples. Adults can be evaluated using the standard ADHD rating scale like the Wender Utah Rating Scale. The clinician will use a behavioral check-list for both adults and children. This will help to identify other conditions that can occur alongside ADHD. These include conduct disorder, oppositional disorder, anxiety, and depression. The evaluator will also examine the person's history and current medications. The doctor will also look over medical records, and gather background information on the person's environment and family. The examiner may inquire whether the person's parents, or any other relatives are suffering from ADHD and the symptoms they experienced. Psychometric and neuropsychological tests can provide valuable information to aid the evaluator in determining ADHD particularly when there is some uncertainty about the diagnosis. However these tests are not of much use as the sole instrument for determining an ADHD diagnosis due to issues with their sensitivity and accuracy. They also don't reflect the variety of situations that adults have to face. A more recent test, SPECT brain imaging, can provide valuable information on how the brain works during a a brief period of time. However the results are only useful in diagnosing certain types of injuries and illnesses that affect the brain. They do not accurately represent how the brain operates in everyday life, such as school, work and relationships. It is recommended to speak with an expert in mental health who is experienced in the evaluation and management of ADHD. The best way to find such a person is through a referral from a doctor, therapist or other professional. Signs and symptoms People with ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused and controlling their emotions. This can lead to problems at work, school, or in relationships. It can also make it difficult to deal with daily stress in a healthy way. If left untreated, ADHD symptoms can lead to serious consequences such as job loss, friendships broken and other negative consequences. To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms of an individual must persist through the adolescent and childhood years. These symptoms must also hinder their ability to function in normal life, and they must be present prior to the age of 12. Inattention and impulsivity are among the most frequent symptoms of ADHD. Inattention symptoms could include difficulties staying focused, forgetting important information, or having trouble remembering. One may also be lacking organization skills, or have difficulties following directions and keeping track of multiple tasks at once. Hyperactive/impulsive symptoms include fidgeting, being unable to sit still, having excess energy, and being talkative. This type of ADHD can also cause someone to struggle with waiting for their turn or interrupting other people. These signs are typically seen in children when they first start school. They may have difficulty in school due to the demands of academics and then become frustrated due to their lack of organization or focus. They may also struggle with interpersonal relationships due their tendency to rage. These symptoms can persist into adulthood, causing problems at work, in romantic relationships, and even with family members. People with untreated ADHD may feel embarrassed or blame themselves, assuming they're not smart enough to succeed or that something is wrong with them. However, it is important to understand that having ADHD does not mean that you're less smart or skilled. Your primary care physician or a mental health professional will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if you suffer from ADHD. They will inquire about your symptoms and the effects they affect your life. They will also interview your spouse as well as other family members and your friends. They will utilize behavior rating scales and symptom checklists to evaluate your symptoms. They will also review your medical history and education. They may also refer you for an examination of your body or take psychological tests to rule out any other ailments. Diagnosis You or your child has been struggling at school. You may be worried about the dreaded snow day or even the most recent teacher evaluation. You've heard about ADHD but aren't sure what it is. Is your child lazy, or does she have a problem that's more easily to treat than fix? A thorough diagnosis is crucial. You need to determine if the problem is caused by excessive screen time, poor parenting or a medical issue. Your family doctor can assist you to determine whether an ADHD assessment is right for you. In general, an ADHD assessment consists of an interview, a review of symptoms, and the use of rating scales or checklists. Doctors will ask about the person's history of health, development going back to childhood as well as work and academic experience and driving history as well as marriage and family relations. The doctor will also look for other disorders, such as learning disabilities, mood and anxiety disorders. The person who is being evaluated must be able discuss the issues openly and honestly. It is important that the person who is being evaluated is not hiding behind embarrassment, or fearful of being judged. This will help the examiner understand how the ADHD symptoms interfere with everyday life and help to suggest treatments. To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD, several symptoms must be present prior to age 12, and must be “impairing” in at least two of the major situations, such as at home or school. Impairment goes beyond being forgetful or struggling to keep up with assignments. adhd assessment can also include getting fired from a work because of tardiness, or failing to complete a task on time, or causing tension and conflict in a relationship. A lot of doctors conduct interviews with the patient as well as a loved one, such as spouse, sibling, or parent. They may also ask feedback from people that spend a lot of time with the patient such as a coach or nanny. This kind of personal experience can reveal information that cannot be gleaned through questionnaires. Psychologists will often conduct 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 professional can conduct an ADHD evaluation to determine if there is an underlying cause, such as a mental disorder or another physical issue that is causing similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation involves examining the person’s medical and mental history, as well as evaluating their past and present behavior and school performance. It also includes calling family members teachers, parents, and other caregivers to get a complete picture of the person’s functioning in different environments. People with ADHD typically benefit from a combination of treatments, says Dr. Frank. Some are prescribed medications to improve concentration and focus, and reduce impulsiveness, such as stimulants like Ritalin or Adderall, or non-stimulant medicines that take longer to effect but may also help enhance attention skills, such as Intuniv or Clonidine. Behavioral therapy is also a part of many treatment plans, particularly for children. For instance, a counselor might help them learn organizational strategies to make it easier for them to keep track of their possessions or even use mindfulness meditation to improve their impulse control and help them better manage their time. Marital or family counseling can be beneficial for people suffering from ADHD, as it teaches them how to communicate and problem-solve that can help them deal with their issues at the workplace and at home. In addition, many with ADHD can manage their symptoms by eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and exercising, and cutting down on alcohol consumption and junk food. It may also be beneficial to seek help from family and friends or join a support organization or participate in an ADHD coach training program that will provide them with tools and tips to manage their symptoms. Anyone diagnosed with ADHD must visit their GP regularly for checkups on their medication, to help them know the effectiveness of their treatment and to address any side negative effects. The GP can also refer patients who suffer from ADHD to an psychologist or psychiatrist for further evaluation and diagnosis.