ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic we have remained committed to providing an efficient service to our patients. We have also tested new clinical pathways that are standardised for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of the Qb Test as an assessment tool for ADHD.
Medical professionals can have preconceived notions of what someone with ADHD appears like. Prior to your appointment it is helpful to be familiar with the signs (traits) of ADHD.
What is an ADHD assessment?
An ADHD assessment is a thorough examination of the symptoms and how they impact on everyday life. It can be used to determine the source of the symptoms and to determine the best course of action. This may include behavioural therapy, medication or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. The goal is to decrease the hyperactive, inattentive, and hyperactive symptoms of the disorder and improve the patients' attitudes towards, and capabilities for managing their day to day lives. This can help reduce the anxiety that symptoms can cause and help them reach their potential.
The first step is to have an interview with a psychologist or psychiatrist who has experience and training in diagnosing ADHD. They will ask you for details about your symptoms, as well as details regarding your family history as well as your medical records. They will also review your work and social life to identify any other factors that could be contributing to your symptoms.
Many doctors utilize questionnaires and ratings scales in addition to the interview with the patient to ensure they are collecting standard data. For children, this may include parent and teacher interviews and rating scales, such as the Vanderbilt or Conners indices. Adults will receive a more detailed interview, that could include a full psychiatric evaluation.
During the interview in the consultation, a doctor will try to determine the date when your symptoms first began to manifest and the 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 should occur in two or more environments and get in the way of your daily functioning.
The doctor will also review your medical history and will look for other conditions that could be causing your symptoms, like thyroid issues or head injury. They will also examine your previous school records to determine if the symptoms began before age 12. In certain instances they may ask for information from those who know you, such as friends or family members. They can also ask you to read any reports written by you such as school or work-related progress notes.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD is a mental disorder that can lead to difficulties paying attention, staying organized and staying focused. It is often called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can cause difficulties at school, in the workplace and in relationships. It can also make it difficult to cope with anxiety or depression. There are a variety of factors that can trigger ADHD and depression, such as genetics, problems with the central nervous system during pregnancy or birth or head injuries, drug usage, and a few medications.
Children must display at least six of the symptoms or behaviors that persist over time and cause significant issues in order to be identified as ADHD. Squirming, fidgeting, or leaving their seats when they should be sitting are all signs of ADHD. Other signs include forgetting things and making erroneous mistakes. adhd assessment cost uk who are restless or impulsive can also struggle to wait for their turn, interrupt conversations or games or utter a list of answers prior to being asked and even take things from other people without asking permission.
Adults diagnosed as ADHD need to show only five of the nine symptoms over the past six months. During an assessment, the doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also examine you and do psychological tests. They will also look over your school and employment records, as well as your past history of alcohol or drug usage and any mental health issues within your family.
The doctor will also try to rule out any other illnesses that could be contributing to the symptoms you are experiencing, including mood disorders, thyroid problems, or learning disabilities. They will also determine if you've had any head injuries or other medical conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms like seizures. You should inform the doctor about any family history of ADHD or any other mental health issues in your family. It's also a good idea to bring any relevant documentation like performance evaluations from your work place or old report cards, with you to your appointment.
What are the treatment options for ADHD?
Treatment options include educational, behavioral, and psychosocial. The majority of people with ADHD are treated in a combination of these, and the best outcomes are achieved when a multidisciplinary treatment approach is employed. Treatment involves teaching parents to control their children's behavior as well as create a an environment that is structured at home. Teachers are also trained to recognize ADHD symptoms in children and to encourage greater behaviors in the classroom. Counseling may also be part of the treatment, which includes family therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. It could also include marital counseling or relationship counseling.
The first step to treatment is 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 myriad of diseases and conditions that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Your GP will check the symptoms against the criteria, and may refer you for further assessment by a psychiatrist or paediatrician.
There are many medications that can reduce the symptoms of ADHD such as stimulants. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medication and is effective by increasing the activity in areas of the brain responsible for attention and behaviour. It is available in tablets that release immediately that are small doses taken twice or three times daily. It can also be modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Both forms can improve concentration and focus. It is recommended to only take them as directed by your physician.
People suffering from ADHD typically suffer from other mental disorders like depression or anxiety. These disorders may need to be treated along with ADHD or could make it more difficult to treat ADHD. If your child or you is being treated for a coexisting condition, the treatment for that disorder will be integrated into the treatment of ADHD.
Many people with ADHD benefit from talking therapy that includes family and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). Through this type of counseling you will learn to better understand the way your ADHD impacts you or your child, and devise strategies to cope with the challenges.
How can I obtain an ADHD assessment?
If you think that you or your child might have ADHD the first step is to talk to your GP. They must take your concerns seriously and refer you for a specialist ADHD assessment.
Bring your photo ID to the appointment. You will also have to fill out a pre-screening questionnaire prior to your appointment with your psychiatrist. This will ensure that the consultation runs on time and that your diagnosis process doesn't get delayed. It is important that you complete these forms as fast as you can prior to the appointment so that your psychiatrist is able to review them before the consultation starts.
The next step in the process of obtaining an ADHD assessment is for the expert to interview you and your child, along with any other adults who spend a lot of time with your child or you. This may include teachers, babysitters, coaches as well as other family members. Your specialist may also ask questions about your or the child's symptoms, their history, and the way of life.
It is very important to be honest and open during the interview, so that your specialist can understand all of the issues and issues you are experiencing. It is not uncommon for people to suffer from other mental disorders in addition to ADHD. Your specialist will want to ensure that you do not have other disorders.
After the interview and questionnaires have been completed, the specialist will prepare a comprehensive report of their findings. The report will be sent to your GP, along with copies for both you and your child. If you wish, your specialist can also provide recommendation letters to workplaces or schools at an additional fee.
Certain adults may find it difficult to diagnose ADHD because of the stigma and misinformation surrounding the disorder. It is essential to find a professional who has expertise in diagnosing adults with ADHD and will collaborate with you to receive the treatment you need. You can also try contacting an ADHD support group or asking for suggestions from other individuals who have received diagnoses of ADHD.