How to Get Tested For ADHD
Everyone struggles to stay focused or organized occasionally, but when these challenges are severe enough to interfere with work, school, and relationships, it could be time to get tested. Find out more about the ADHD assessment process.
A health professional uses a multistep evaluation to determine whether someone has symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. This includes a medical exam, behavioral observations as well as standard tests.
1. Self-assessment
In a self-assessment you evaluate your performance in a specific task or task. Then, you create an action plan or goal to improve your performance. Self-assessment is an accepted method in many different settings, including school and work. The process may be flawed due to a variety of factors. For example, people may overvalue themselves more than their peers do, especially when they're under pressure. This is particularly true for medical students who tend to rate themselves more harshly.
A person can only be diagnosed with ADHD if they've experienced symptoms for a long time enough to interfere with life functioning in at least two different areas, like home and school as per the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision. The DSM-5-TR also outlines three subtypes: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive or combined.
The DSM-5-TR identifies that people with ADHD who are predominantly inattention are unable to concentrate and staying organized, as well as following directions. Those with predominantly hyperactive/impulsive ADHD act "as if driven by a motor" and have little impulse control, per the DSM-5-TR. They aren't able remain still for long periods of time and often blurt out answers when questions aren't finished, or interrupt conversations, games and activities.
In general, doctors will employ clinical interviews, behavioral rating scales or ADHD symptom checklists to determine whether someone has the right criteria to make an assessment of ADHD according to the DSM-5-TR. They can also conduct psychological tests to assess cognitive abilities like executive functioning, working memory (abilities such as planning and decision making) or spatial and visual ability. They might also administer neuropsychological testing, which looks at brain functioning. The test does not directly assess ADHD but it can rule-out conditions that mimic ADHD symptoms, like mood disorders and head injuries, learning disorders and thyroid problems. Many people who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental health conditions like oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorders and anxiety disorders. They may also suffer from other physical issues, such as gastrointestinal issues or sleep disorders.
2. Family History
Everyone has trouble being organized and concentrating from time to time. But if the problems are causing significant issues at school, work or home (such as getting poor grades, losing work or paying bills late) it's an excellent idea to talk with a mental health professional about getting an assessment for ADHD.
In general, a diagnosis of ADHD requires the presence of symptoms in more than one setting and lasting at least six months. The symptoms must have also started in childhood, or at least prior to the age of 12. In addition, the person's behavior must be disruptive to social, family and professional.
People with ADHD often suffer from other conditions. A psychiatrist or doctor will conduct a thorough examination to identify any other mental health issues that may be causing the ADHD symptoms. A physical examination is an additional part of the examination. The doctor will examine to determine if there's any health conditions that could cause similar symptoms, for example thyroid disorders or vision and hearing problems.
A health care professional will review the medical and family history of a person, and may perform urine and blood tests. They will ask questions that are geared to the age of the person, and may interview others such as parents, teachers, babysitters, or coaches to obtain a complete picture. They will often use questionnaires and rating scales to assess the symptoms of a person.
It is crucial to include family members in the process as ADHD is often a family issue. If a parent is aware of their child's ADHD they should let the school and other caregivers be aware and develop plans to address the issue. I Am Psychiatry should also talk to their doctors about how they can support each one another. It's also important for patients who are older to talk about their previous struggles with hyperactivity and attention because it will help a doctor determine if they are a good candidate for treatment. It's normal for people who had ADHD in their childhood to have a difficult time overcoming it.
3. Physical Exam
The physical exam usually involves monitoring vital indicators like temperature and blood pressure. The doctor may also touch certain areas of the body to check for abnormalities. This could include the head, neck, abdomen, hands, feet, knees, and hands. The doctor will also examine the patient's eyes, ears, and nose for signs of injury or disease.
A physical exam can help determine whether the symptoms of ADHD could be related to another medical condition such as thyroid disease or diabetes. The doctor will also examine the health history of the patient and their family members. This is vital because ADHD can run in families. The doctor will also be interested in knowing if the symptoms of ADHD began before age 12.
The following requirements must be met to be diagnosed with ADHD The symptoms must manifest in at least two different settings, such as at home, school or at work. The symptoms of the person are debilitating, and affect their daily activities. The symptoms have been present for a period of six months and are not caused by another mental disorder like depression or anxiety.
When conducting an examination of children to determine if they are suffering from of ADHD, the doctor will conduct an interview with the child, their parents, and teachers. This is an important part of the evaluation as it gives the doctor an overall picture of the child's behavior and their behavior.
A few of the questions asked during these interviews could be related to academic performance. For instance how long a child can concentrate on a task or if they have trouble finishing tasks. The doctor may also inquire about emotional problems, such as feelings of anxiety and depression which can cause someone to be unable to focus.
A physical exam may also include imaging and laboratory studies. These tests are performed to look for conditions that could be causing the symptoms of ADHD, such as thyroid disorder or nutritional deficiencies. It is important to find a specialist with experience in diagnosing ADHD. When selecting a specialist, be sure to do your research including researching the professional's certification and academic degrees. Also, talk with other patients and professionals about their experiences with the specialist.
4. Psychological evaluation
A psychological assessment is a thorough examination of an individual's personality traits, emotional states, behaviors and beliefs. It consists of a series of questions and surveys, as well as observations made by the mental health professional performing the evaluation.
Psychologists or therapists may also employ questionnaires and ratings scales to measure the level of attention and impulsivity of a person. They will also interview the person as well as family members and school officials teachers, coaches and other staff members to get a complete picture of how the individual behaves in different settings.
It is important to choose an experienced therapist who has experience working with children suffering from ADHD. It is better that the therapist has training in treating ADHD. A therapist who doesn't have this training is unlikely to be able to diagnose ADHD or attempt to do so. There are many mental health professionals that specialize in working with children and adolescents such as pediatric psychologists and child psychiatrists.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, the person must be exhibiting symptoms in at least two settings (such as school and home). The symptoms must be severe enough to interfere in the daily activities. They must have been present for at minimum six months. They can't be caused by a medical issue, such as an issue with thyroid or seizure disorder.
If a person meets all of the criteria for diagnosis and treatment, they will receive an treatment plan that could include therapy and medication. Medication can control ADHD symptoms but it doesn't cure the disorder. Therapy can help the sufferer develop strategies to cope with their symptoms and learn how to manage the symptoms on a daily basis.
A mental health professional may be asked to conduct an ADHD evaluation to determine whether the individual is suffering from this disorder. Self-assessments are useful, but a professional diagnosis is the best way to ensure that you receive the correct diagnosis. The therapist will then be able determine the best treatment that may include medication and/or therapeutic intervention.