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ADHD Assessment – Getting a Diagnosis Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD) is a complicated condition. It is a complex condition that has three sub-types and can present with varying symptoms. It can also be confused with physical ailments and other mental disorders. It is therefore crucial to get an accurate ADHD diagnosis. Your therapist or doctor will need to complete questionnaires, interview you and other people, and examine any relevant documents. Signs and symptoms A health professional will evaluate the patient's behavior or, in the case of adults their school and childhood experiences. They will also take into account the person's mental health and physical history, mood, as well as family and lifestyle issues. They may also interview people who know the person well such as parents, family members and teachers, to gain information about their relationship with the person as well as how the symptoms affect their lives. To be diagnosed, a person must be exhibiting symptoms in at least two environments, including at work, home and school, and cause a dysfunction in their daily lives. Symptoms must be present for at minimum six months. The symptoms must be inappropriate to the person's development level. The symptoms must have been noticed in children prior to the age of 12. They aren't caused by other disorders, such as depression or anxiety. Inattention is the most commonly reported symptom, meaning that the person is having trouble staying focused or focused. They can also lose things often, forget appointments, and make a few mistakes at school or work. They might spend long periods of time in a state of mind or have difficulty completing tasks and frequently forget homework or assignments. Hyperactivity-impulsivity, the other main symptom of ADHD, causes the person to move about excessively, even when it's not appropriate, or to fidget, tap or talk. They might interrupt others, make rapid decisions without considering the consequences, and have difficulty getting their turn. A health care provider may also look for other ailments such as depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders. In addition to a physical examination the doctor will ask questions about family and personal histories and will also provide the patient with a series of tests designed to test their ability to pay attention, think quickly, stay well-organized and manage their emotions. Diagnosis A health professional must perform an assessment before a patient can be diagnosed with ADHD or ADD or ADD as it was previously known. This could include a detailed description of the symptoms of the individual, rating scales completed by the person and their family members, medical background, school and work records and other relevant information. A physical exam may be required of the individual being evaluated. A medical examination is necessary to rule out conditions or diseases which may cause symptoms similar ADHD, including brain tumors, vision problems hearing problems, depression, thyroid disorders and head injuries. In some cases the psychiatric examination may be required in addition to a medical exam. In these cases the evaluator is required to talk with the patient and other significant individuals in his or her life — for example, spouses, parents and siblings for children as well as teachers and coaches for adults -regarding their experiences and observations about the patient's behavior. These interviews can provide valuable insight into what is happening to the person and whether or not tests are required to determine if they suffer from ADHD. It can be overwhelming to get an assessment, especially in the event that you are concerned that you don't have ADHD. You might also be worried that your career or relationships will suffer if they are diagnosed with a condition. It is a good idea to ask friends, relatives and colleagues for recommendations for a qualified specialist who has experience in performing ADHD assessments. It is also a good idea to check with the individual's insurance to learn which professionals are covered under their plans and to know how much the evaluation will cost. Treatment Treatment for ADHD can help manage symptoms that are causing problems at work or at school, in your relationships, or in your personal. The first step is to obtain a diagnosis. The most crucial part of this process is to find an expert in health care who is qualified to evaluate your symptoms. You may ask your doctor or therapist for a recommendation, or contact the local chapter of a national mental health organization for a list of professionals in your area. Certain insurance plans offer the list of specialty health care providers. There are many members of a support group for ADHD sufferers have worked with certain specialists and are able to offer suggestions. In addition to examining your medical and family history, a health care professional who is evaluating ADHD symptoms will likely request you to fill out a number of standardized rating scales and questionnaires about your behavior that you've been experiencing. These ratings are based upon research that compares the behaviors of people suffering from ADHD to those who don't have it. If you meet the requirements of ADD If you meet the criteria of ADD, your doctor might refer you to a specialist for further testing to rule out other physical or psychiatric issues. Some people with ADHD also suffer from depression, sleep disorders or other mood disorders. They may also have learning disabilities, which cause them to struggle with writing and reading. These conditions may have similar symptoms to ADHD and must be identified to be treated effectively. Once your symptoms have been recognized, your doctor can prescribe either medication or psychotherapy. Behavioral therapy helps you learn to observe your own behavior and modify it when needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help improve your thinking and manage your emotions. Psychotherapy can also help you improve interpersonal relationships and resolve issues in your marriage or family. Medication There are many medications that can be utilized to treat ADHD in both adults and children. assessment for adhd like amphetamine and methylphenidate help to regulate brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are typically the first medications prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications are available as immediate-release tablets or modified-release tablets, which provide an exact dose throughout the day. The effectiveness of these medications is different for each individual, so it may take a while to find the right dose and dosage that works for you or your child. Initial treatment plans will include a periodic medical evaluation of symptoms and side-effects. The doctor will alter the medications as needed. ADHD is often treated with behavioral therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral and dialectical therapy for adults. Other therapies can aid people with ADHD. They include yoga and mindfulness meditation. All medications can have negative side effects. It is important to discuss any concerns with your doctor. Tell your provider all other medications that you or your child are taking such as those prescribed and over-the-counter. Certain medications can interact with stimulant medication and can cause dangerous side effects. For many people with ADHD finding the right dosage and medication will take time and patience. Be sure to discuss all your options with your physician and follow the directions for taking the medication. It is also essential to inform your doctor of any changes in diet, as some foods can alter the way the medication is absorbed by your body. Certain young people who are who are taking stimulant medication may experience a minor growth delay or an increase in blood pressure or heart rate. Therapy If you or your child adult, is diagnosed with ADHD or other disorders, the healthcare professional will develop a treatment plan for them that includes medication and therapy. They will help you determine the appropriate dosage and track the reaction of your child or yourself to the medication. There are a variety of medications available for treating ADHD. The most commonly used are psychostimulants that alter neurotransmitters in the brain and may help boost energy levels, improve concentration and alertness. These include amphetamines like Adderall and methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta. They include antidepressants such as Wellbutrin, Effexor and Viloxazine. Non-stimulant medications, which do not impact neurotransmitters, are prescribed to people suffering from the inattention-deficit presentation of ADHD and include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine). Therapy will help you learn to manage your symptoms and modify your behaviors. Your therapist will teach you to use time management techniques and devise organizational strategies. They'll teach you coping mechanisms to manage your emotions and help build positive relationships. They may also recommend counseling for your family or marriage, or classes that help improve communication. Disorganization is another sign of ADHD and can make it difficult to complete tasks or remain organized at home or at work. You may find it difficult to remember appointments or deadlines. You could also lose important documents and have difficulty keeping your work area neat and clean. Behavioral therapy could include training to relax your mind, improve your sleep quality and practice coping anxiety. Many people suffering from ADD/ADHD have trouble sleeping. it difficult to go to sleep at night and are frequently awakened by racing thoughts or a restless sleep. They have trouble following the schedule and often delay the completion of tasks. This can lead to unfinished projects or tasks that are not completed. Behavioral therapy can help you learn to improve your self-control and increase your ability to prioritize and reduce the amount of caffeine and nicotine in your diet.