ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital
Despite the COVID-19 epidemic, we remain committed to providing an efficient service to our patients and have piloted new clinical pathways for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of the Qb Test as an ADHD screening tool.
It is possible that medical staff have preconceived notions about what an individual with ADHD will appear like. It is helpful to familiarize yourself with the traits (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment.
What is ADHD assessment?
An ADHD assessment is a thorough review of the symptoms and how they affect everyday life. It can be used to determine if the condition is causing the symptoms, and to determine the best method of treatment. This could include behavioural therapy, medication or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. The goal is to reduce inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness that are associated with the disorder, increase attitudes and abilities to manage day-to-day life, and decrease the hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention signs. This will also help to reduce the distress caused by symptoms and help them to reach their full potential.
The first step is to schedule an appointment with a psychologist or psychiatrist who has the training and experience of diagnosing ADHD. They will ask for specific details regarding your symptoms as well as details about your family history and your medical records. They will also discuss the social and work environments to identify any factors which could be contributing to your symptoms.
Many doctors utilize questionnaires and ratings scales in addition to interviews with the patient to ensure that they are collecting the right information. This can include parent-teacher interviews and rating scales, such as the Vanderbilt and Conners indexes for children. Adults will be given a more detailed interview, that could include a full mental health evaluation.
During getting assessed for adhd , a doctor will try to find out when your symptoms first started, and what impact they have on your daily life. In order to make a diagnosis, they will need to see that you have at least six symptoms of ADHD (inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity) over the last six months. Adults should experience this in at least two different settings and interfere with their daily functioning.
The doctor will also review your medical history to determine if there are any other conditions that may be creating symptoms, such as a thyroid disorder or head injury. They will also look over your old school records to determine if your symptoms started before you turned 12. In some cases they may seek information from those who know you, such as relatives or friends. They may also ask to review any written reports such as school or work-related progress notes.
What are the signs of ADHD?
ADHD is a mental health disorder that causes problems with paying attention to the task at hand, staying focused and organized. It is sometimes referred to as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can cause issues at school, work and in relationships. It can also make it difficult to cope with anxiety and depression. ADHD can be caused by a range of factors, including genetics.
For children to be diagnosed with ADHD, they must show at least six signs or symptoms that are present over time and are causing serious problems. They may be fidgeting or squirming in their seats or leaving their seat even when they should remain seated, having trouble playing or doing leisure activities in a quiet manner frequently forgetting things and making careless mistakes. Children who are restless or impulsive can also struggle to wait for their turn and interrupt games or conversations or utter a list of answers before they're asked and take other people's things without asking permission.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD should only exhibit five out of nine symptoms in the last six months. During an evaluation the doctor will inquire about your symptoms and the impact on your life. They will also assess your psychological health and conduct tests. They may also look at your school and work records and your past history of drug and alcohol consumption, and any mental health issues in your family.
The doctor will also attempt to determine if there are any other issues that could be causing the symptoms you are experiencing, such as thyroid issues, mood disorders or learning disabilities. They will also determine whether you've suffered any head injuries or medical conditions that might influence ADHD symptoms, such as seizures. Tell your doctor if you have any family history of ADHD, or any other mental health issues. It's recommended to bring any relevant records like the performance evaluations you receive from your job or old reports with you to your appointment.
What are the treatment options for ADHD?
Treatment options are psychosocial, educational, and behavioral. Most people with ADHD are treated in some combination, and best outcomes are achieved when a multidisciplinary treatment approach is employed. Treatment involves teaching parents how to manage their the behavior of their children and providing the structure they need at home and also training teachers to identify signs of ADHD in children and encourage more behavioural responses in the classroom. Counseling is also a component of the treatment plan, which includes family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and relationship or marital counseling.
The first step to treatment is to conduct a thorough evaluation. This looks at a person's present and in the case of an adult, previous health issues, mood and the history of ADHD symptoms. It also seeks opinions from family members and friends as well as colleagues at work and even teachers.
There are a myriad of conditions and illnesses that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Your physician will review the symptoms against the criteria, and may suggest further examination by a psychiatrist or paediatrician.
There are a variety of medications that can aid in reducing the symptoms of ADHD which include stimulants. Methylphenidate is the most frequently used medicine and it works by increasing activity in the parts of the brain responsible for attention and behaviour. It is available in tablets that release immediately (small doses taken twice to three times daily) or as modified-release tablets that are released throughout the day. Both of these forms can aid in improving concentration and focus. They should be taken as recommended by your physician.
Most people who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental health problems like depression or anxiety. These disorders may need to be treated in conjunction with the ADHD or make it more difficult to use medication for ADHD. If your child or you is being treated for a condition that is coexisting the treatment for that disorder will be integrated into the treatment of the ADHD.
Many adults with ADHD also benefit from talk therapy, which includes family and individual psychological counseling (psychotherapy). In this type of therapy you will be able to better understand the way your ADHD impacts you or your child, and develop strategies to deal with the difficulties.
How do I obtain an ADHD assessment?
If you think that you or your child might have ADHD the first step is to speak to your GP. They should take your concerns very seriously and refer you to a specialist ADHD evaluation.
If you are attending your appointment, make sure you have a photo ID. You will also have to fill out some pre-screening questions prior to your appointment with your psychiatrist. This is to ensure that your consultation is kept to a reasonable duration, which helps to ensure that the process of diagnosing does not get delayed. You should fill out these forms as quickly as you can, to allow your doctor time to review them.
The next step of obtaining an ADHD assessment is to have the expert interview you and your child along with any other adults who spend a significant amount of time with you or your child. This can include teachers, babysitters and coaches as well as other family members. Your specialist may also ask questions regarding your child's symptoms, history, and lifestyle.
It is important to be honest and open during the interview so that your specialist understands all the issues and issues you are experiencing. It is not uncommon to find people suffering from other mental health conditions in addition to ADHD So, your doctor will also want to confirm whether you have any other disorders.
After the interview and questionnaires are completed, your specialist prepares a comprehensive report based on their findings. The report will be sent directly to your GP together with copies for you and your child. You can pay an additional fee to have your specialist provide letters of recommendation for workplaces or schools.
Certain adults may find it difficult to diagnose ADHD because of the stigma and misconceptions regarding the disorder. Because of this, it is important to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing adults with ADHD and is willing to assist you in getting the treatment you need. You can also contact an ADHD support group or asking for suggestions from others who have been diagnosed with ADHD.