ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital
We have continued to provide an efficient service to our patients despite the COVID-19 epidemic. We have developed new standardised clinical pathways in adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction Qb Test as a screening tool for ADHD.
Medical staff can have preconceived notions of what someone suffering from ADHD looks like. Before you visit, it can be helpful to know the symptoms (traits) of ADHD.
What is ADHD assessment?
An ADHD assessment is a detailed examination of the symptoms and their impact on daily life. It can be used to determine the source of the symptoms and determine the best treatment. This may include medication or Cognitive Behavioural therapy. The aim is to decrease the inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness that are associated with the disorder, improve attitudes and abilities to manage day-to-day life, and reduce the hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention signs. This will also lessen the distress that symptoms cause and allow them to realize their potential.
The procedure begins with an interview with a specialist psychologist or psychiatrist with training and experience in diagnosing ADHD. They will ask for specific details regarding your symptoms as well as information on your family history as well as your medical records. They will also review your work and social environment to identify any other factors that could be contributing to your symptoms.
In addition to the patient interview A lot of doctors employ rating scales and questionnaires to ensure that they are collecting standardized data. These include parent-teacher meetings and rating scales like the Vanderbilt and Conners indexes for children. Adults will have more in-depth interviews, that could include a full psycho-psychiatric assessment.
During the interview in the consultation, a doctor will try to find out the date when your symptoms first began to manifest and what effect they have on your 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. For adults, this must happen in two or more environments and get in the way of daily functioning.
The doctor will also look at your medical history and want to check for other conditions that could cause the symptoms, like thyroid disease or head injury. They will also look at your school records from the past, to determine if any of the symptoms began before age 12. In certain instances, they may ask for information from people you know, such as friends or family. They may also ask to see any reports written such as school notes or work.
What are the symptoms ADHD?
ADHD is a mental disorder that can cause difficulties paying attention to your surroundings, staying organized and focusing. It is also known as attention deficit disorder (ADHD). It can cause issues at work, school and in relationships. It can also make it hard to manage depression and anxiety. ADHD can be caused by a range of factors such as genetics.
Children must show at least six symptoms or traits that persist over time and cause significant problems in order to be identified as ADHD. Squirming, fidgeting, or leaving their seats when they are supposed to be sitting are all signs of ADHD. Other symptoms include forgetting things and making erroneous mistakes. Children who are easily distracted or impulsive may also struggle to wait for their turn, interrupt conversations or games or utter a list of answers before they're asked and steal other people's possessions without asking permission.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD must meet a lower threshold of criteria in order to display five out of nine symptoms over the past six months. During the evaluation the doctor will inquire about your symptoms and their impact on your life. They'll also conduct psychological tests and examine your. They might also check your school and employment documents, as well as your previous history of alcohol or drug use and any mental health issues that may be present in your family.
The doctor will eliminate other illnesses that could be contributing to your symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities or thyroid issues. They will also check if you've had any head injuries or medical problems that can influence ADHD symptoms like seizures. Tell adhd assessment women if you have an extended family history of ADHD, or any other mental health issues. Bring any relevant documentation like old report cards or performance assessments at your workplace, to your appointment.
What are the treatment options for ADHD?
Treatment options are psychological, educational and behavioral. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive a combination of these therapies, and the most successful results occur when an approach that is multidisciplinary is employed. Treatment involves training parents on how to manage behaviour and provide the structure they need at home, as well as training teachers to recognize symptoms of ADHD in children and encourage more behavioral responses in the classroom. Counseling is also an element of treatment, including family therapy or cognitive behavior therapy. It could also include relationship counseling or marital counseling.
Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation. This involves a thorough analysis of the patient's health, mood and any previous ADHD symptoms. It will also ask for feedback from friends, relatives, colleagues at work, and teachers.
There are a myriad of diseases and conditions that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Your GP will compare the symptoms with the criteria, and may refer you to an apologist or psychiatrist for further assessment.
Stimulants are one of the drugs that can reduce ADHD symptoms. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed medication. It works by increasing activity in parts of the brain that control the behavior and attention. It is available in immediate-release tablets that are tiny doses taken three or twice times per day. Or it can be modified-release tablets, which release the medication throughout the day. Both types can help improve concentration and focus. You should only take them as directed by your doctor.
Many people with ADHD also suffer from mental health problems such as anxiety or depression. These may need to be treated in conjunction with the ADHD or complicate the use of medication for ADHD. If you or your children are being treated for co-existing disorders, the treatment will be integrated into the treatment for ADHD.
Many adults with ADHD benefit from therapy for talking, such as family and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). During this type of counseling you will learn to better understand the way your ADHD affects you or your child, and devise strategies to deal with the difficulties.
How do I obtain an ADHD assessment?
If you think that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD the first step is to talk to your GP. They should take your concerns seriously and refer you for an expert ADHD assessment.
When you go to your appointment, be sure that you bring a an ID photo with you. You will be asked to fill in some pre-screening questionnaires prior to meeting with your psychiatrist. This is so that the consultation can be kept to duration, which will help to ensure that the process of diagnosing does not get delayed. You should fill out these forms as quickly as possible to allow your doctor time to go through them.
The next step in the process of obtaining an ADHD assessment is to have the expert interview you and your child as well as any other adults who spend a significant amount of time with you or your child. This may include teachers, babysitters, coaches as well as other family members. Your specialist will also inquire about your your child's symptoms, history, and lifestyle.
It is crucial to be honest and forthcoming during the interview to ensure your specialist understands all the issues and problems that you are experiencing. It is not unusual to find people suffering from other mental health conditions in addition to ADHD This is why your doctor will also want to confirm whether you have any other disorders.
After the interview and questionnaires have been completed, your specialist will create a thorough report of their findings. The report will be sent to your GP together with copies for both you and your child. You can pay an additional fee to have your specialist provide letters of recommendation for workplaces or schools.
It can be difficult for some adults to get diagnosed with ADHD because of the stigma and misinformation surrounding the disorder. Because of this, it is important to find a specialist who is skilled in diagnosing adults with ADHD and will work with you to get the treatment you require. You can also contact an ADHD support group or asking for recommendations from others who have received diagnoses of ADHD.