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ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital Despite the COVID-19 pandemic we remain committed to providing an efficient service to our patients and have piloted new standardised clinical pathways for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of the Qb Test as an ADHD screening tool. It is possible that medical professionals have preconceived notions about what an individual suffering from ADHD will appear like. Prior to your appointment it may be beneficial to be familiar with the symptoms (traits) of ADHD. What is ADHD assessment? An ADHD assessment is an in-depth examination of the symptoms and their impact on daily life. It can be used to determine if the condition is causing the symptoms, and also to determine the best method of treatment. This could include medication or Cognitive Behavioural therapy. The aim is to reduce inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness that are associated with the disorder, increase attitudes and abilities to manage day-today life, and decrease the hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention signs. iampsychiatry.com can also help reduce the distress caused by symptoms and enable patients to reach their maximum potential. The first step is to schedule an interview with a psychologist or psychiatrist who has the training and experience of diagnosing ADHD. They will ask for details of your symptoms, as well as your family history and medical records. They will also discuss your work and social environment to identify any factors that could be contributing to your symptoms. In addition to the patient interview Many doctors will also utilize rating scales and questionnaires to ensure they are gathering standardized data. For children, this can include parent and teacher interviews as well as rating scales such as the Vanderbilt or Conners indexes. Adults will have a more detailed interview, which may include a full psychiatric evaluation. During the interview in the consultation, a doctor will try to find out the date when your symptoms first began to manifest, and what impact they have on your daily 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 need to experience this in at least two different settings and impact their daily functioning. The doctor will also look over your medical history to determine if there are any other conditions that may be creating symptoms, such as a thyroid disorder or head injury. They will also review your school records from the past, to determine if any of the symptoms began before age 12. In certain instances, they may seek details from people you know, like relatives or friends. They can also ask to see any reports written like notes from school or work. What are the signs of ADHD? ADHD is a mental health disorder that causes issues in paying attention to the task at hand, staying focused and organized. It is also known as attention deficit disorder (ADHD). It can cause problems at school, work and in relationships. It can also make it difficult to deal with depression or anxiety. ADHD can be caused by a range of factors, including genetics. For children to be diagnosed with ADHD, they must show at least six characteristics or symptoms that are present in time and cause significant issues. They may be fidgeting or squirming in their seat and leaving their seat when they are supposed to sit down, having trouble playing or doing leisure activities in a quiet manner and often forgetting things, as well as making mistakes that are not made. Children who are agitated 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 as ADHD should only exhibit five of the nine symptoms within the last six months. During an evaluation the doctor will inquire about your symptoms and their impact on your life. They will also examine you and conduct psychological tests. They may also look at your school and work documents, as well as your history of drug or alcohol consumption, and any family-related mental health issues. The doctor will also attempt to determine if there are any other issues that could be causing the symptoms you are experiencing, such as mood disorders, thyroid problems or learning disabilities. They will also determine if you have had any head injuries or medical issues that could cause ADHD symptoms such as seizures. You should tell the doctor about any family history of ADHD or any other mental health issues in your family. It's important 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 psychosocial, educational, and behavioral. Most people with ADHD receive some combination of these treatments, and the best results occur when the multidisciplinary approach is employed. Treatment involves teaching parents to control their children's behavior and give them an environment that is structured at home. Teachers are also trained to recognize ADHD symptoms in children and encourage more behavior-related responses in the classroom. Counseling may also be a part of the treatment, including family therapy or cognitive behavior therapy. It may also include marital counseling or relationship counseling. Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation. The evaluation will look at the person's current health and when they are an adult, their past health problems, mood, and a history of ADHD symptoms. It will also ask feedback from friends and relatives as well as colleagues at work and teachers. Some adults might not meet the criteria for a diagnosis and there are many diseases and conditions that could cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Your doctor will evaluate the symptoms against the criteria and suggest further examination by psychiatrists or paediatricians. There are many medications that can reduce the symptoms of ADHD, including stimulants. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed medication, works by increasing brain activity in areas that control behavior and attention. It is available in tablets that release immediately, which are small doses taken three or twice times a day. It can also be modified-release tablets, which release the medication throughout the day. Both forms can increase concentration and focus. It is best to take them as directed by your doctor. People who suffer from ADHD typically suffer from other mental disorders like anxiety or depression. These disorders may need to be treated along with ADHD or can affect the use of 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 with ADHD benefit from therapy for talking like family therapy and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). This type of therapy can help you understand how ADHD affects your child or you, and develop strategies for coping with the challenges. How do I get an ADHD assessment? If you think you or your child might have ADHD the first step is to speak to your GP. They should be attentive to your concerns and refer you to a specialist ADHD assessment. Bring your photo ID to the appointment. You will be asked to fill in some pre-screening questions before meeting with your psychiatrist. This is so that the consultation is kept to a reasonable duration, which will help to ensure that the process of diagnosing doesn't get delayed. It is important to complete these forms as quickly as you can, to allow your doctor time to review them. The expert will then interview you, your child and any other adults that spend a lot of time with your child or with you. This could include teachers, babysitters, coaches and other family members. Your specialist may also be able to ask questions regarding your child's symptoms, the history of your child, and their lifestyle. It is essential to be honest and open during the interview to ensure that your doctor can be aware of all the issues and problems you're experiencing. It is not unusual for people to suffer from other mental disorders, in addition to ADHD. Your doctor will want to make sure that you do not have other disorders. After the interview and questionnaires are completed, your specialist will write an extensive report on their findings. The report will be sent directly to your GP along with copies for you and your child. You can pay an additional fee to have your doctor provide letters of recommendation for workplaces or schools. It isn't easy for some adults to get diagnosed with ADHD because of the stigma and misinformation that surrounds the disorder. Because of this, it is essential to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing adults with ADHD and who will assist you in getting the treatment you require. You can also contact an ADHD support group, or seek recommendations from individuals who have been diagnosed with ADHD.