ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic we have remained committed to providing an effective service to our patients. We have also piloted new clinical pathways that are standardised for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction Qb Test as an assessment tool for ADHD.
It is possible that medical professionals have preconceived notions about how people who suffers from ADHD will look like. Before your appointment, it can be helpful to be familiar with the symptoms (traits) of ADHD.
What is ADHD assessment?
An ADHD assessment is a thorough review of the symptoms and how they impact on daily life. It can be used to identify the cause of the symptoms and to determine the best treatment. This may include behavioural therapy, medication or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. The goal is to reduce the inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness that are associated with the disorder, improve attitudes and abilities to manage day-today life, and decrease the hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattentiveness symptoms. This can help in reducing the anxiety caused by symptoms and enable them to reach their full potential.
The process begins with an interview with an expert psychologist or psychiatrist who has expertise and training in diagnosing ADHD. They will request details regarding your symptoms, as well as details regarding your family history and your medical records. They will also talk about your work and social life to identify any factors that could contribute to your symptoms.
A lot of doctors use questionnaires and ratings scales in addition to interviews with the patient to ensure they are collecting the right data. These include parent-teacher meetings and rating scales, such as the Vanderbilt and Conners indexes for children. For adults, these will be more in-depth and can involve a full psychiatric interview.
During the interview during the interview, a doctor will attempt to determine the date when your symptoms first began to manifest, and what impact 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 has to happen in two or more environments and cause a disruption of everyday functioning.
The doctor will also look over your medical background to determine if there are any other conditions causing symptoms, such a thyroid disorder or head injury. They will also review your old school records to determine if your symptoms began before turning 12. In some instances they may ask for information from people who know you, like family members or friends. They may also request to see any reports written like notes from school or work.
What are the signs of ADHD?
ADHD is mental health condition that causes difficulties with attention and staying focused, as well as being organised. It is often known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can cause problems at work, at school and in relationships. It can also make it difficult to deal with anxiety and depression. There are a number of things that can cause ADHD and depression, such as genetics, issues with the central nerve system during pregnancy or birth, head injuries, substance usage, and a few medications.
To be able to diagnose a child with ADHD the child must exhibit at least six characteristics or symptoms that are present over time and are causing serious problems. Fidgeting, squirming, or leaving their seats when they should be sitting are all signs of ADHD. Other symptoms include forgetting things and making careless errors. Children who are constantly distracted and impulsive may also have difficulty waiting for their turn and interrupt conversations or games or even utter a few words without being asked.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD need to meet an upper threshold of criteria, as they only need to have five out of nine symptoms in the past six months. During an assessment, the doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also do psychological tests and check you. They may also examine your employment and school documents, as well as your history of drug or alcohol usage and any mental health issues in your family.
The doctor will also try to determine if there are any other illnesses that could be contributing to the symptoms you're 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 could affect ADHD symptoms, like seizures. It is important to inform your doctor about any family history of ADHD or any other mental health issues in your family. Bring any relevant documents such as old report cards or performance assessments at your workplace, to your appointment.
What are the treatment options for ADHD?
Treatment options include educational, behavioral and psychosocial. Most people with ADHD receive a mix of these treatments, and most effective results are achieved when a multidisciplinary approach is used. Treatment involves training parents on how to manage behavior and provide the structure they need at home as well as educating teachers to identify signs of ADHD in children and encourage more behavioral responses in the classroom. Counseling can also be a part of the treatment plan, including family therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and relationship or marital counseling.
The treatment begins with a thorough evaluation. This includes a thorough evaluation of the person's health, mood, and previous ADHD symptoms. It also seeks feedback from friends and relatives, colleagues at work, and teachers.
There are a myriad of conditions and illnesses that can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Your physician will review the symptoms against the criteria, and may recommend further evaluation by a psychiatrist or paediatrician.
Stimulants are among the medications that may help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Methylphenidate is the most widely used medication and is effective by increasing the activity in areas of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. It is available in immediate-release tablets, which are small doses taken three or twice times daily. Also, it is modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Both of these forms can aid in improving concentration and focus. They should be taken according to the dosage recommended by your physician.
Often people with ADHD also suffer from mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety. These conditions may need to be treated alongside the ADHD or make it more difficult to use medication for ADHD. If you or your children are being treated for co-existing conditions the treatment will be integrated into the treatment for ADHD.
Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from therapy for talking like family therapy and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). During this type of counseling you will be able to better understand the way your ADHD affects you or your child, and devise strategies to overcome the difficulties.
How can why are adhd assessments so expensive get an ADHD assessment?
If you think that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD, the first step is to speak to your GP. They should take your concerns seriously and send you to an expert ADHD assessment.
Bring your photo ID to the appointment. You will also be required to fill out a pre-screening questionnaire before the meeting with your psychiatrist. This will ensure that the consultation runs on time and that your diagnosis process isn't delayed. It is essential that you complete these forms as quickly as possible before the meeting so that your psychiatrist can review them prior to the start of the consultation.
The next step of getting an ADHD assessment is to have the expert interview you and your child, as well as any other adults who spend a lot of time with your child or you. This can include babysitters, teachers, coaches as well as other family members. Your specialist will ask you about your symptoms, your child's history and your daily routine.
It is essential to be honest and open during the interview, to ensure that your doctor can comprehend all the issues and issues you're experiencing. It is not uncommon for people to have other mental disorders, in addition to ADHD. Your specialist will want to confirm that you don't have any other disorders.
Once the interview and questionnaires have been completed, your doctor will prepare a comprehensive report of their findings. The report will be delivered directly to your GP together with copies for you and your child. You can pay an additional fee to have your specialist write letters of recommendation for schools or workplaces.
It can be difficult for some adults to get diagnosed with ADHD due to the stigma and misinformation surrounding the disorder. This is why it is essential to find a professional who has experience diagnosing adults with ADHD and is willing to work with you to get the treatment you require. You can also reach out to an ADHD support group or seek recommendations from individuals who have been diagnosed with ADHD.