ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we remain committed to providing an effective service to our patients. We have also piloted new standardised clinical pathways for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of the Qb Test as an assessment tool for ADHD.
Medical staff can have preconceived notions of what someone with ADHD appears like. Before your appointment, it can be helpful to be familiar with the symptoms (traits) of ADHD.
What is an ADHD assessment?
An ADHD assessment is an in-depth review of the symptoms and how they impact on everyday life. It is used to identify whether the condition is causing the symptoms, and also to determine the best course of treatment. This can include medication or Cognitive Behavioural therapy. The goal is to reduce the inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness of the disorder, improve attitude and abilities to manage day-today life, and lessen the hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattentiveness symptoms. This can also help reduce the anxiety caused by symptoms and enable them to reach their full potential.
The first step is to have an appointment with a psychiatrist or psychologist who has the training and experience of diagnosing ADHD. They will ask you for details about your symptoms, as well as information on your family history and your medical records. They will also review your working and social settings to determine any factors that might be contributing to the symptoms.
In addition to the patient interview, many doctors will utilize rating scales and questionnaires to ensure they are gathering standardized data. For children, this may include parent and teacher interviews as well as rating scales, such as the Vanderbilt or Conners indices. For adults, these will be more in-depth and can involve an entire psychiatric assessment.
During an interview, a doctor will inquire about when your symptoms first started and how they impact 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. Adults must have this happen in at least two settings and affect their daily activities.
The doctor will also look over your medical background to determine if there are other conditions that could be creating symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or head injury. They will also examine your school records from the past, to see if any of the symptoms began before age 12. In certain instances, they may request information from people who know you, such as family members or friends. They can also ask to see any written reports such as school notes or work.
What are the signs of ADHD?
ADHD is mental health condition that causes difficulties with attention, staying focused and being organised. It is also known as attention deficit disorder (ADHD). It can cause difficulties at school, at work and in relationships. It can also make it difficult to deal with depression and anxiety. There are many factors that can trigger ADHD and depression, such as genetics, issues with the central nervous system during pregnancy or birth, head injuries, substance use, and certain medications.
To be able to diagnose a child with ADHD, they must show at least six traits or symptoms that are present over time and are causing significant problems. They may be fidgeting or squirming in their seats and leaving their seat when they are supposed to sit down, having trouble playing or doing leisure activities in a quiet manner, forgetting things often and making rash mistakes. Children who are restless and impulsive may also be unable to wait for their turn, interrupt games or conversations, or blurt out answers without being asked.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD must only show five out of nine symptoms over the past six months. During an evaluation, the doctor will ask you about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They'll also conduct psychological tests and test you. They may also look at your school and work documents and your past history of drug and alcohol use and any family mental health issues.
The doctor will try to determine if there are other illnesses that could be contributing to your symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities or thyroid issues. They will also assess whether you've suffered any head injuries or medical issues that could cause ADHD symptoms, such as seizures. You should inform the doctor about any family history of ADHD or any other mental health issues that are in your family. Bring any relevant documents such as old report cards or performance evaluations at your workplace to your appointment.
What are the treatment options available for ADHD?
Treatment options include behavioral, educational and psychosocial. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive a mix of these treatments, and the most successful results occur when an approach that is multidisciplinary is employed. Treatment involves teaching parents how to manage their behaviour and provide an environment for their children to be in, as well as training teachers to spot signs of ADHD in children and encourage more behavioral responses in the classroom. Counseling is also a component of the treatment plan, including family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relationship or marital counseling.
Treatment starts with a thorough assessment. This includes a thorough assessment of the patient's health, mood and any previous ADHD symptoms. It will also ask opinions from family members and friends, colleagues at work, and teachers.
There are a variety of diseases and conditions that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Your physician will review the symptoms against the criteria and recommend further evaluation by psychiatrists or paediatricians.
Stimulants are among the medications that can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed medication is effective in increasing brain activity in the areas that regulate behavior and attention. It is available in tablets that release immediately, which are small doses that are taken two or three times a day. It can also be modified-release tablets, which release the medication throughout the day. Both types can aid in improving concentration and focus. It is best to take them as directed by your physician.
People who suffer from ADHD typically suffer from other mental disorders such as depression or anxiety. These may need to be treated alongside the ADHD, or they may interfere with the use of medications for ADHD. If your child or you is being treated for a coexisting disorder, the treatment for that disorder will be integrated with the treatment of ADHD.
how to get adhd assessment with ADHD benefit from talking therapy, including individual and family psychological counseling (psychotherapy). In this type of therapy you will be able to understand how your ADHD affects you or your child, and develop strategies to deal with the issues.
How do I obtain an ADHD assessment?
If you suspect that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD the first step is to talk to your GP. They should take your concerns very seriously and refer you to an expert ADHD assessment.
When you attend your appointment, be sure that you bring a an ID photo with you. You will be asked to fill in some pre-screening questions prior to meeting with your psychiatrist. This is so that the consultation is kept to a reasonable duration, which helps to ensure that the process of diagnosing does not get delayed. It is important to complete these forms as quickly as you can so that your psychiatrist has time to go through them.
The expert will then interview you, your child and any other adults that spend a lot time with you or your kid. This can include babysitters, teachers, coaches as well as other family members. Your specialist may also inquire about your or your child's symptoms, history, and lifestyle.
It is very important to be honest and open during the interview to ensure that your doctor can be aware of all the issues and issues you are experiencing. It is not uncommon for people to have other mental health conditions in addition to ADHD So, your specialist will also need to ensure whether you are suffering from any other conditions.
After the interview and questionnaires are completed, your specialist will write a comprehensive report based on their findings. The report will be delivered directly to your GP together with copies for both you and your child. You can pay extra to have your specialist write letters of recommendation for workplaces or schools.
It isn't easy for some adults to be diagnosed with ADHD due to the stigma and misinformation surrounding the disorder. This is why it is important to find a professional who is skilled in diagnosing adults with ADHD and will work with you to get the treatment you need. You can also reach out to an ADHD support group, or seek suggestions from people who have been diagnosed with ADHD.