ADHD Testing - The First Step to Diagnosing ADHD
A thorough ADHD evaluation includes a thorough interview with the person being evaluated, and one or more standardized questionnaires designed to assess the symptoms. Parents and teachers are often also interviewed.
Children and adults who are diagnosed with ADHD must exhibit symptoms in at least two settings and the symptoms can't be caused by other medical conditions such as seizure disorders or thyroid disorders.
History
The first step in getting a diagnosis of ADHD is to talk to your primary care physician. You may be referred psychiatrists who will perform an assessment that includes a full medical history and physical exam. This evaluation includes standardized behavior rating scales for ADHD and ADD lists of symptoms, as well as psychological tests.
Generally, ADHD is more frequently diagnosed in children than in adults. The disorder can affect anyone of any age. Adults suffering from untreated ADHD are likely to struggle at workplace or in relationships and are more at chance of developing addiction problems or depression, and may even engage in criminal activities. It is essential to obtain a correct diagnosis so that treatment can start.
While there have been mentions of children suffering from behavioral problems similar to those of ADHD in the 18th century, the modern ADHD history began with the observations of Sir Frederick Still in 1902. Still was a famous pediatrician who noted that many of his patients were easily distracted and had difficulty staying focused on their tasks. He believed these symptoms were related to the way their brains functioned and not the result of poor parenting or lazy attitude.
The American Psychological Association published its first edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1952. At the time, it was referred to as attention deficit disorder (ADD) without hyperactivity. The APA didn't recognize hyperactivity as a symptom essential until 1980 when DSM-III was introduced. At that time, the ADD subtype was dropped and the resulting classification was changed to ADHD.
KMN Psych's ADHD testing process is thorough and thoroughly assesses the behavioral and cognitive patterns of a person which can be used to confirm or rule out the ADHD diagnosis. This information is used to create tailored interventions and educational accommodations as and treatment plans which improve productivity, daily functioning, and long-term results.
During an initial visit the doctor will take an in-depth look at the person's problematic behaviors and their impact on the individual's home life and school performance as well as their career. The doctor will also collect information regarding the person's family history and will also interview family members. They will use standard behavior rating scales for ADHD, ADD/HD symptom checklists and psychological tests that test working memory, executive functioning abilities (abilities such as making decisions and planning) spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning (thinking) abilities.
Physical Exam
The ADHD screening process involves a physical examination that measures the height, body weight and pulse. The medical history is collected, including prescription, over-the drug and illicit medicines. The examiner will assess hearing and vision. The examiner will also test for any other health or behavioral disorders that may be similar to the symptoms of ADHD. It's important to screen for other disorders since many people with ADHD have co-existing disorders like depression, anxiety and learning disabilities. They can be overlooked when focusing solely on the symptoms of ADHD.
The psychologist or psychiatric nurse practitioner conducting the assessment will interview the person being assessed. testing for adhd in adults will inquire about the person's behavior in school as well as at home and at work. They will also discuss the family and social background, if appropriate. The psychologist will ask the patient to complete one or more of the standardized ADHD ratings scales. These are questionnaires which use research to compare behavior of people with ADHD and those who do not. The person being assessed must answer the questions honestly and openly. They should not conceal any information because of shame or embarrassment.
During the interview, the doctor will go through any notes or records from previous evaluations. They will look for an identifiable pattern of symptoms that are constant over time and don't get better or worse. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they affect the person's daily life.
In certain instances an examiner may recommend a medical examination or lab tests to rule out the underlying physical causes of the symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues. These tests aren't part of a diagnosis, however, they can be crucial in identifying any other health issues which could be causing or mimicking ADHD symptoms.
A prompt and accurate diagnosis is vital to ensure a person gets the help they require at school, at work and in their community. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a range of treatments and accommodations that can improve the quality of life and productivity. A correct diagnosis can aid individuals in understanding their individual challenges, and identify the strategies and techniques that work best for them.
Psychological tests
If you suspect that you or your children might be suffering from ADHD then you should seek out an expert in health care who is trained to recognize and treat this disorder. The person you meet with will ask you various questions to determine if the signs you or your child experiencing meet the requirements for ADHD. The doctor will also perform an assessment of your psychological health that may include behavioral and cognitive tests. The evaluation is crucial because it can help distinguish ADHD from other disorders that have similar symptoms, like depression or anxiety.
During the diagnostic exam, your doctor will ask you a series of questions that are standard for your behavior and its impact on your life. He or she will also likely talk to your teachers and parents to gain a full picture of the symptoms you are experiencing. This can help determine whether they are related ADHD or if other factors like stress or medical issues could be responsible.
Your evaluator will also need to know about your family history as well as any other mental health issues that you have experienced. It may be helpful to write down a list of your concerns and the specific behaviors that worry you, so that you do not forget any information. You might be asked to fill out questionnaires about your mood and performance. These include the Adult ADHD Rating Scale and the Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Attention and Symptoms(CAARS).
A major component of the clinical assessment for ADHD is to observe your behavior in various settings, including your home, school as well as at work and play. During these assessments, your evaluater will document the frequency and intensity of your symptoms as well as the impact of the symptoms on your life. He or she may use a standard observation form to record the results.
Your evaluator may recommend a structured behavior plan, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or training for parents as behavioral interventions. These methods can help you or your child how to cope with the symptoms of ADHD. They can help you establish an environment of order and consistency at home, in school and help reduce the disturbances that hyperactivity and impulsivity cause.
Counseling
Making the right diagnosis is essential to receive an effective treatment. This process is highly individual and requires lots of clinical judgment. Typically, it involves analyzing data from several sources. This includes evaluating ratings of educational and behavior scales completed by teachers, parents, and children, as well as interviewing the person, and watching them at different environments (e.g. at home or school, and at work). The clinician will also assess the impact of their symptoms on their ability to manage daily tasks and relationships and will rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms like mood disorders or learning disabilities.
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 assessment at the time of the initial appointment. In addition an examination of previous evaluations and treatment records is typically included in the evaluation.
In some cases, the clinician might seek information from people familiar with the symptoms of an individual, such as family friends, religious leaders, family members, scouts, coaches, and teachers. The clinician will want to be aware of how the symptoms have been present and their severity. They will also determine if the individual has other mental health problems which could be causing their ADHD symptoms, like depression or anxiety.
Once the results are in the doctor will discuss the results with the patient. They will also discuss how to manage the symptoms. The physician may suggest specific counseling, such as dialectical behavior therapy or cognitive therapy. These specialized therapies are designed to address many of the issues that people with ADHD face, including the impulsivity of children and difficulties with organizing, planning, and following through. They can also offer practical strategies for managing daily responsibilities and relationships, and teaching strategies for emotional regulation and self-care. In some instances medications may be suggested to treat the symptoms.