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ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital Despite the COVID-19 epidemic, we have remained committed to providing an effective 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 assessment tool for ADHD. Medical professionals can have preconceived notions about what someone suffering from ADHD appears like. Before your appointment it may be beneficial to be familiar with the symptoms (traits) of ADHD. What is an ADHD assessment? An ADHD assessment is a thorough analysis of the symptoms and their impact on everyday life. It is used to determine whether the condition is responsible for the symptoms, and to determine the best course of treatment. This may include behavioural therapy, medication or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. The aim is to reduce inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness associated with the disorder, improve attitudes and ability to manage day-to-day life, and decrease the hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention symptoms. This will also help to reduce the distress caused by symptoms and enable them to reach their full potential. The procedure begins with an interview with a specialist psychologist or psychiatrist who has training and experience in diagnosing ADHD. They will request specific details regarding your symptoms as well as information on your family history as well as your medical records. They will also talk about your working and social settings to determine any factors that could be contributing to your symptoms. In addition to the interview with the patient, many doctors will utilize rating scales and questionnaires to ensure they are collecting data that is standardized. For children, this may include teacher and parent interviews and rating scales such as the Vanderbilt or Conners indexes. Adults will receive an even more thorough interview which may include a full psycho-psychiatric assessment. During an interview, a doctor will inquire about when your symptoms first started and how they affect 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 settings and cause a disruption of daily functioning. The doctor will also review your medical history and want to check for other conditions that could be causing the symptoms, such as a thyroid condition or head injury. They will also review your old school records to determine if your symptoms started before you turned 12. In some cases they may seek information from someone you know, like family members or friends. They may also request to see any reports written such as school notes or work. What are the signs of ADHD? ADHD is a mental illness that can result in difficulties paying attention, staying organized and focus. It is often known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can cause issues at work, at school and in relationships. It can also make it hard to manage anxiety and depression. ADHD can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics. For children to be diagnosed with ADHD the child must exhibit at least six traits or signs that appear in time and cause serious problems. Fidgeting, squirming, or leaving their seats when they should be sitting are all symptoms of ADHD. Other symptoms include forgetting things and making erroneous mistakes. Children who are easily distracted or impulsive can also struggle to wait for their turn interrupting conversations or games and mutter answers prior to being asked and even take things from other people without asking permission. Adults diagnosed with ADHD must meet an upper threshold of criteria in order to have five out of nine symptoms in the last six months. During an assessment, the doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also examine your psychological health and conduct tests. They will also examine your work and school records as well as your history of drug or alcohol use, as well as any family mental health issues. The doctor will attempt to determine if there are other illnesses that could be contributing to your symptoms, such as learning disabilities, mood disorders or thyroid problems. adhd assessment women will also determine if you have suffered any head injuries or medical conditions that might affect ADHD symptoms, like 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. Bring any relevant documents like old reports or performance evaluations at your workplace to your appointment. What are the treatment options for ADHD? Treatment options include educational, behavioral and psychosocial. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are treated in some combination of these, and the best results are achieved when a multidisciplinary treatment approach is employed. Treatment includes teaching parents how to control their children's behavior and give them an environment that is structured at home. Teachers are also trained to spot ADHD symptoms in children and to encourage greater behavioral responses in the classroom. Counseling can also be part of the treatment, such as family therapy or cognitive behavior therapy. It could also include marriage counseling or relationship counseling. Treatment begins with a thorough examination. This involves a thorough analysis of the person's health, mood and any previous ADHD symptoms. It also solicits feedback from family members, friends, colleagues at work, and teachers. There are a myriad of diseases and conditions that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Your doctor will evaluate the symptoms against the criteria and may refer you for further assessment by a psychiatrist or paediatrician. Stimulants are among the medicines that can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medicine and it increases activity in parts of the brain that control attention and behaviour. It is available in immediate-release tablets, which are small doses that are taken two or three times a day. It can also be modified-release tablets, which release the medication 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. Most people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. These disorders can be treated in conjunction with ADHD or may make it more difficult to treat ADHD. If you or your children are being treated for co-existing disorders the treatment will be integrated into the treatment of ADHD. Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from therapy for talking, such as family and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). This type of counseling can help you better understand how ADHD affects your child or yourself and devise strategies to deal with the challenges. How can I get an ADHD assessment? If you suspect that you or your child might have ADHD The first step is to speak to your GP. They must take your concerns seriously and send you to an expert ADHD assessment. When you go to your appointment, make sure to have photo ID with you. You will be asked to complete some pre-screening questions prior to meeting with your psychiatrist. This is to ensure that the consultation is kept to a reasonable time, which will help to ensure that your diagnosis process doesn't get delayed. You should complete these forms as quickly as possible so that your psychiatrist has time to go through them. The next step of getting an ADHD assessment is to allow the professional to interview you and your child and any other adults who spend a lot of time with your child or you. This could include babysitters, teachers, coaches as well as other family members. Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms, your child's history and lifestyle. It is essential to be honest and open during the interview so that your doctor can understand all issues and problems that you are experiencing. It is not uncommon for people to suffer from other mental disorders, in addition to ADHD. Your specialist will want to make sure that you are not suffering from any other conditions. After the interview and questionnaires are completed, your specialist will write a comprehensive report based on their findings. The report will be sent directly to your GP together with copies for you and your child. If you'd like your doctor to offer recommendations to workplaces or schools at an additional fee. For some adults, it can be difficult to diagnose ADHD due to the stigma and misinformation surrounding the disorder. It is crucial to find a professional who has expertise in diagnosing adults with ADHD, and who will collaborate with you to get the treatment that you require. You can also reach out to an ADHD support group, or seek recommendations from individuals who have been diagnosed with ADHD.