ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been able to provide an efficient service to our patients. We have also piloted new standardised clinical pathways for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of Qb Test as an ADHD screening tool.
It is possible that medical staff have preconceived notions about how an individual suffering from ADHD will look like. It can help to familiarise yourself with the traits (symptoms) of ADHD prior to your appointment.
What is ADHD assessment?
An ADHD assessment is a thorough review of the symptoms and their impact on daily life. It can be used to determine whether the condition is responsible for the symptoms, and also to determine the best course of treatment. This may include medication or Cognitive Behavioural therapy. The goal is to decrease the inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive symptoms of the disorder and to improve patients' attitudes to and capabilities to manage their day to day lives. This will also lessen the anxiety that symptoms cause and allow them to realize their potential.
The procedure begins with an interview with an expert psychiatrist or psychologist who has training and experience in diagnosing ADHD. They will ask you for details regarding your symptoms, as well as details about your family history and medical records. They will also review your work and social environment to identify any other factors that could contribute to your symptoms.
A lot of doctors use questionnaires and ratings scales in addition to an interview with the patient to ensure they are collecting standard information. For children, this may include teacher and parent interviews and rating scales such as the Vanderbilt or Conners indices. For adults, these will be more detailed and could include a full psychiatric interview.
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 must occur in two or more environments and cause a disruption of your daily functioning.
The doctor will also look over your medical history to determine if there are any other conditions that could be the cause of your symptoms, like thyroid disorders or head injury. They will also look over your school records from the past to see if the 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 such as notes from school or work.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD is a mental health disorder that causes difficulties with paying attention to the task at hand, staying focused and 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 cope with depression and anxiety. ADHD can be caused by a variety of causes such as genetics.
For a child to be diagnosed with ADHD the child must exhibit at least six traits or symptoms that are present over time and are causing significant issues. Squirming, fidgeting or stepping out of their seats when they should be seated are all signs of ADHD. Other signs include ignoring things and making careless errors. Children who are easily distracted or impulsive can also have trouble waiting for their turn and interrupt games or conversations, blurt out answers before being asked, and even take things from other people without asking permission.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD need to meet a lower threshold of criteria in order to display five out of nine symptoms over the past six months. During an evaluation the doctor will inquire about your symptoms and their impact on your life. They will also examine you and do psychological tests. They may also look at your work and school records as well as your history of drug or alcohol consumption, and any mental health issues in your family.
The doctor will also try to rule out any other conditions that may be causing the symptoms you're experiencing, such as thyroid issues, mood disorders, or learning disabilities. They will also look to see if you have suffered any head injuries or medical conditions that might affect ADHD symptoms, such as seizures. It is important to inform your doctor about any family history of ADHD or any other mental health issues that are in your family. It's recommended to bring any relevant documentation like the performance evaluations you receive from your job or old report cards, with you to your appointment.
What are the treatment options for ADHD?
Treatment options include behavioral, educational and psychosocial. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are treated using a combination, and the most effective results are obtained when a multidisciplinary treatment approach is employed. Treatment involves teaching parents to control their children's behavior as well as give them the structure they need at home. Teachers are also trained to spot ADHD symptoms in children and to encourage greater behavior-related responses in the classroom. Counseling is also a component of the treatment plan, including family therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and marital or relationship counseling.
The first step in treatment is a thorough examination. This involves a thorough analysis of the patient's health, mood and any previous ADHD symptoms. It also seeks opinions from family members and friends, colleagues at work, and teachers.
There are many diseases and conditions that could cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Your doctor will evaluate the symptoms against the criteria and may recommend further evaluation by a psychiatrist or paediatrician.
There are many medications that can aid in reducing the symptoms of ADHD which include stimulants. Methylphenidate is the most frequently used medication and increases activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and behaviour. It is available in tablets that are immediate-release (small doses taken twice to three times a day) or as modified-release tablets that are released throughout the day. Both of these forms can aid in improving concentration and focus. It is recommended to take them as recommended by your physician.
People with ADHD frequently suffer from mental disorders such as anxiety or depression. These disorders may require treatment in addition to the ADHD or complicate the use of medication for ADHD. If your child or you is being treated for a coexisting condition, the treatment for that disorder will be integrated with the treatment of the ADHD.
Many people with ADHD benefit from therapy for talking that includes family and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). This type of therapy will help you understand how ADHD affects your child or you and devise strategies to deal with the issues.
How do I obtain an ADHD assessment?
If you think that you or your child may have ADHD The first step is to speak to your GP. They should take your concerns very seriously and refer you for an expert ADHD assessment.
Bring your photo ID to the appointment. You will be asked to fill in some pre-screening questionnaires prior to meeting with your psychiatrist. This will ensure that the consultation is conducted on time and that your diagnosis process isn't delayed. It is important to complete these forms as quickly as you can, to allow your doctor time to review the forms.
The next step in the process of obtaining an ADHD assessment is to have the expert interview you and your child and any other adults who spend a lot of time with you or your child. This can include teachers, babysitters and coaches and other family members. Your specialist will also ask questions about your the child's symptoms, the history of your child, and their the way of life.
It is very important to be open and honest during the interview, to ensure that your doctor can be aware of all the issues and problems you are experiencing. It is not uncommon for people to have other mental health issues in addition to ADHD So, your specialist will also want to check whether you are suffering from any other conditions.
After the interviews and questionnaires have been completed, your specialist will create a thorough report of their findings. The report will be delivered 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 schools or workplaces.
For some adults, it can be difficult to get diagnosed with ADHD due to the stigma and confusion regarding the disorder. For this reason, it is crucial to find a doctor who is experienced in diagnosing adults with ADHD and will assist you in getting the treatment you require. You can also try contacting an ADHD support group or asking for recommendations from other individuals who have received diagnoses of ADHD.