ADHD Testing - The First Step to Diagnosing ADHD
A complete ADHD evaluation involves a clinical interview with the person being assessed and one or more standardized questionnaires designed to evaluate the symptoms. Teachers and parents are often interviewed as well.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, adults or children must have symptomatic behavior in more than one setting and the symptoms aren't caused by another medical problem like a thyroid disorder or seizure disorders.
History
The first step in getting an diagnosis of ADHD is talking to your primary care doctor. You may be referred an expert in mental health who will conduct an assessment that includes a thorough history and physical examination. Standardized behavior rating scales for ADHD, ADD symptom checklists and psychological tests are usually included in this assessment.
ADHD is more often diagnosed in children than in adults. The disorder can affect anyone of any age. Adults with ADHD who aren't treated can have problems at work, in relationships, and may be more susceptible to addiction and depression. It is crucial to receive the correct diagnosis, so that treatment can begin.
While there have been mentions of children suffering from behavioral problems similar to those of ADHD as early as the 18th century, modern ADHD history begins with Sir Frederick Still's observations in 1902. Still was a famous pediatrician who noticed that a lot of his patients were easily distracted and had trouble staying focused on their work. He believed that these issues were caused by the way their brains functioned and not because of poor parenting or laziness.
In 1952, the American Psychological Association (APA) published the first edition of its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. At that time, the disorder was referred to as an hyperactivity-related attention deficit disorder or ADD. The APA didn't recognize hyperactivity as a sign of something vital until the year 1980 when DSM-III was introduced. The ADD subtype became ADHD at the time.
KMN Psych's ADHD testing process is thorough and thoroughly assesses cognitive and behavioral patterns that can either confirm or rule out an ADHD diagnosis. The results are used to create tailored interventions and educational accommodations, as also treatment plans that improve efficiency, daily functioning and long-term success.
During the initial visit the doctor will provide a thorough account of the patient's problematic behaviors and the impact they have on their personal life, school performance and work. The doctor will also talk to family members and gather details about a person's history. They will employ standardized behavioral rating scales for ADHD and the ADD/HD symptoms lists, as well as psychological tests that assess executive function, working memory, skills (abilities like planning and making decisions) spatial and visual capabilities (related to space) and reasoning (thinking).
Physical Exam
The ADHD screening process typically involves physical examination that measures height, weight, and pulse. A medical history is also taken which includes prescription, over-the-counter or illicit drugs that are regularly taken. The examiner will evaluate vision and hearing. The examiner can also check to determine if any other health or behavioral disorders are present that mimic the symptoms of ADHD. It is essential to check for co-existing illnesses, such as depression, anxiety or learning disabilities. These are often ignored when we focus on the symptoms of ADHD.
The psychologist or psychiatric nurse practitioner who is conducting the evaluation will talk to the person being evaluated. They will inquire about the person's behavior in school as well as at home and at work. If necessary, they'll also discuss the family and social history of the person. The psychologist will ask the individual to fill out one or more standardized ADHD ratings scales. These are questionnaires that utilize research to assess the behavior of people with ADHD and those who don't. The person being assessed must answer the questions honestly and candidly. They should not hide any information to avoid shame or embarrassment.
During the interview, the clinician will review any notes or records from previous assessments. They will look for patterns of symptoms which are similar and do not change over time. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they affect the person's daily life.
In certain cases the doctor may suggest a medical exam or lab tests to rule out underlying physical causes of the symptoms, like seizures and thyroid issues. These tests are not part of a diagnosis, but can be vital in identifying other health problems which could be causing or mimicking ADHD symptoms.
A timely and accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure that an individual receives the assistance they require in school, at work and in their community. A valid ADHD diagnosis can open many different treatments and accommodations that improve daily functioning, productivity, and long-term achievement. Additionally, a correct diagnosis can help individuals comprehend their specific challenges and determine the strategies and coping strategies that work best for them.
Psychological Tests
If you're worried that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD, the first step is to consult a health care professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating this condition. The person you see will ask you questions to determine if the symptoms you or your child are experiencing fit the criteria for ADHD. They will also conduct a thorough psychological evaluation, which may involve tests for cognitive function and behavioral assessments. The evaluation is crucial because it helps differentiate ADHD from other conditions that have similar symptoms, like depression or anxiety.
During the diagnostic interview your doctor will ask you a series standardized questions about your behavior and how it impacts your life. The doctor will likely interview your parents and teachers to get a complete picture of the issues you are experiencing. This will help determine if they are related to ADHD or if other causes such as stress or medical issues are the cause.
Your evaluator might also inquire about your family history and any mental health issues that you've experienced. It is useful to write down your concerns and the specific behaviors that are troubling you, so that you do not forget anything. Your evaluator could also ask you fill out questionnaires about your mood and functioning, such as the Adult ADHD Rating Scale or the Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Attention and Symptoms (CAARS).
A significant 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 observation the evaluator will record the frequency and severity of your symptoms and their effects on your life. He or she may also utilize a standard observation form to record the results.
Some interventions for behavior that your evaluator could recommend are an organized behavior plan as well as cognitive-behavioral therapy and training for parents. These strategies can assist you or your child deal with the symptoms of ADHD. They can help you create the right structure and consistency at home, school, and work to reduce the disturbances that hyperactivity and impulsivity cause.
Counseling
The right diagnosis is essential to ensure the most effective treatment. This process is very individual and requires the use of a lot of clinical judgement. It typically involves analyzing information from various sources. This includes evaluating behavior and academic rating scales that are completed by teachers, parents and children; interviewing the individual; and monitoring them in different situations (e.g. school, home, or at work). testing for adhd in adults will also evaluate how the symptoms affect their ability to handle daily tasks and relationships. He will rule out other potential reasons for the symptoms, such as mood disorders or learning disabilities.
A thorough assessment typically takes one to two hours. Some clinicians ask parents and educators to fill out online questionnaires which are then sent directly to the clinic; others will offer an evaluation of the teacher and parent in person at the time of the initial appointment. In addition reviewing previous evaluations and treatment records are usually included in the evaluation.
In some cases the doctor may seek information from others who are aware of the individual's symptoms such as family members or friends, religious and Scout leaders, coaches and teachers. testing for adhd in adults will also be looking to determine whether the symptoms have developed over time and how severe they are. They will also determine if the individual suffers from other mental health issues that may be contributing to their ADHD symptoms, like depression or anxiety.
The doctor will then go over the results with the patient. They will also discuss what can be done to alleviate the symptoms. The clinician will often suggest specialized counseling, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These specialized therapies are designed to address a variety of the challenges that individuals with ADHD face, including impulsivity and trouble with organizing, planning and following through. They can also help teach skills like emotional regulation and self care, as well as practical strategies to manage everyday responsibilities and relationships. In some cases, medication may be recommended to help manage the symptoms.