ADHD Assessment
A specialist in healthcare who specializes in neurological or mental health disorders will conduct the assessment. They will use standardized ratings scales, self-reports, and may interview additional sources such as teachers or family members to gather a image of the person's behavior.
They may also conduct medical tests to rule out any other health issues that could mimic ADHD symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is characterized by the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Adults with ADHD frequently have difficulties in several areas of their lives, such as school, work and relationships. In some instances, ADHD symptoms can lead to frustration and a desire for a proper diagnosis. It is possible that they're falling behind in their work due to difficulties in meeting deadlines, or their relationships may be deteriorating because they are unable to listen and empathize with others.
During adhd uk assessment or psychologist will talk to the patient about their symptoms and impact on their lives. They will go over the patient's medical, psychiatric and family history. They will also conduct standardized tests to determine if the patient suffers from ADHD. These tests include questionnaires and an assessment system for behavioral problems and information from family members and friends.
In addition, the specialist at NYU Langone will ask about other conditions that may be behind the symptoms. This includes anxiety and depression, which can often coexist with ADHD. The specialist will examine the symptoms of each condition to determine if they're related or not, and then offer treatment recommendations based on their findings.
An individual who is subjected to an ADHD assessment usually feels a sense of relief that they can finally explain the reasons behind their struggles and know that they are not merely inactive or unwilling to try. They may also feel anger and frustration that they didn't receive a diagnosis earlier and sadness over the impact their untreated ADHD has had on their life and the lives of those who are closest to them.
If an adult is deciding to get an assessment for ADHD the first step is to find an experienced psychologist or psychiatrist who has undergone specialized training in this disorder. They may be referred by their physician or an organization that provides support for people with ADHD. They can also contact an area hospital affiliated with a university or a graduate school of psychology to request a recommendation. They can also make use of an online database to locate specialists who specialize in ADHD. They can also contact their insurance company to find out whether there are any providers within their network who are qualified for ADHD evaluations.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of ADHD is a clinical procedure. A psychiatrist, with a medical degree and authorization to prescribe medication is able to conduct a thorough examination of the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder. They will ask you about your childhood and how symptoms impact your daily life. The psychiatrist will also review your medical history to determine if there are co-existing conditions that could be the cause of your symptoms.
A Psychiatrist can also talk to your partner, spouse parents, children, and close friends in order to learn more about your symptoms, how they affect you and if they started before the age of 12. You may be asked to take one or more Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scales IV surveys (BAARS-IV). These are reliable tools to aid healthcare professionals in understanding your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. The BAARS-IV includes your self-reports, as well as reports from family, friends or your partner.
Your psychiatrist will want to know how your symptoms interfere with school, work, and your relationships. They will ask about your medical and educational history, the medications you are currently taking or have previously taken and any health issues you may be dealing with. They will also ask about your lifestyle, and any stress you may be experiencing and how you cope with these stressors and how you manage them.
The psychiatrist will evaluate whether you have the inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, or a combination of both. The inattentive form of ADHD is defined as being unable to focus to important details, and forgetting what you did. The hyperactive/impulsive pattern of ADHD is characterized by fidgeting, interrupting others, and being always on the go.
Your psychiatrist will talk with you about your treatment options and may even recommend a comprehensive treatment plan. This could include medication or therapy. When combined with other therapies, many people see their symptoms improve or disappear. In some cases, the psychiatrist will determine that another psychiatric condition can mask the symptoms of ADHD and treat it.
Treatment
A psychiatrist may prescribe medication if you're diagnosed with ADHD. They may also recommend talking therapy or other non-medical treatment. They often collaborate with social workers, psychologists and counselors to coordinate the patient's care and ensure that they are able to balance medical and non-medical interventions. Most insurance plans covering mental health cover visits to psychiatrists.
When you meet with your psychiatrist, they will inquire about your symptoms and how they've impacted your life. They may want to talk with your parents or partner as well. They may also want to know your childhood experiences. The more information your doctor has about your past, the better he or they will be able to comprehend your current challenges.
Psychiatrists are specially qualified to prescribe ADHD medication, such as stimulants, which appear to boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. They can also adjust doses based on how you react to the medication. They may also prescribe other types of medications, including the non-stimulants atomoxetine or bupropion, which act slower than stimulants, however they can be a good alternative in the event of health issues or can't take stimulants because of side effects.
Some people who suffer from ADHD also have depression or anxiety. Your NYU Langone physician will ask you about your mood in order to determine if this is the problem that is creating your ADHD symptoms.
Psychological counseling, also known as talk therapy, can assist people with ADHD learn to manage their symptoms and face the difficulties they face at home and at work. A therapist can guide you through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help you change negative thinking patterns and improve the ability to control your behavior. Counseling can also teach you relationship skills that can help in dealing with issues at home or in the workplace.
Certain people suffering from ADHD struggle with relationships both at home and work because of their impulsive behavior. Counseling can help you manage your emotions and improve your interactions with family members and coworkers. It can also help you find ways to cope with frustration and disappointment that are typical in adulthood.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD symptoms also have other mental health problems, like anxiety disorder, depression or addiction disorders. A psychiatrist can coordinate treatment for all these conditions, helping a person with ADHD find a solution that is effective for them. The psychiatrist may suggest a therapist with expertise in ADHD.
Psychiatrists can evaluate your symptoms and suggest an appropriate treatment plan that incorporates coaching, psychotherapy and treatment plans. They are ideally qualified to prescribe stimulant medications for ADHD and adjust dosages according to the person's response to treatment. Psychologists are more likely to use behavioral interventions, such as cognitive therapy for behavioral disorders, which can aid the person suffering from ADHD learn skills to reduce or manage their ADHD symptoms.
Counselors, who are licensed mental health counselors (LMHCs) or licensed professional counselors (LPC) can be beneficial for those suffering from ADHD as well. They can discuss the psychological and emotional issues that come with ADHD as well as issues in relationships and at work. They can also help you develop strategies for dealing with stress and offer family counseling to those who struggle to cope with the symptoms of ADHD in their loved family members. Counselors are often cheaper to visit than psychiatrists or psychologists, and most insurance plans provide their services.
Another option for assessing and managing ADHD symptoms is Neurofeedback therapy, which uses electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor brain activity. The data is used for identifying and training attentional problems, by teaching the brain to better regulate and process its internal activity. In addition to its application in the treatment of ADHD, Neurofeedback is a beneficial tool for people suffering from depression, anxiety or sleep issues.
Finding the best psychotherapist or psychiatrist isn't an easy task, but it is important to consider the individual's specific needs and symptoms as well as the background and experience of the doctor. When selecting a therapist, patients can make use of online resources and local listings to narrow down their choices. Patients should be aware of the credentials of the therapist, reviews from clients and the experiences of patients to determine which therapist is the best fit for them.