ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we have remained committed to providing an efficient service to our patients. We have also tested new clinical pathways that are standardised for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of the Qb Test as an ADHD screening tool.
Medical staff can have preconceived notions of what someone suffering from ADHD appears like. It is beneficial to familiarize yourself with the characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment.
What is an ADHD assessment?
An ADHD assessment is a detailed review of the symptoms and their impact on daily living. It can be used to determine the root cause of the symptoms and determine the best treatment. This can include behavioural therapy, medication or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. The aim is to decrease inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness of the disorder, improve attitudes and ability to manage day-to-day life, and lessen the hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention symptoms. This can help reduce the distress that symptoms cause and allow them to realize their potential.
The first step is to have an interview with a psychiatrist or psychologist with training and experience in diagnosing ADHD. They will request specific details about your symptoms, and also your family history and medical records. They will also review your work and social environment to determine if there are any factors that could be contributing to your symptoms.
In addition to the patient interview, many doctors will use questionnaires and rating scales to ensure they are collecting standardized data. For children, this could include parent and teacher interviews as well as rating scales such as the Vanderbilt or Conners indices. For adults, these will be more in-depth and can involve an entire psychiatric assessment.
During the interview in the consultation, a doctor will try to find out the time when your symptoms first began, and what 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. Adults must have this happen in at least two situations and interfere with their daily functioning.
The doctor will also look at your medical history and be looking for any other conditions that could cause the symptoms, like thyroid issues or head injury. They will also look over your old school records to see if the symptoms started before you turned 12. In some cases they may seek information from people who know you, such as family members or friends. They may also ask to review any written reports like notes from your school or work progress.
What are the signs of ADHD?
ADHD is a mental illness that can lead to difficulties paying attention to your surroundings, staying organized and focusing. It is also called attention deficit disorder (ADHD). It can cause issues at work, school and in relationships. adhd assessment uk online can also make it difficult to cope with depression and anxiety. There are many things that can cause ADHD, including genetics, issues with the central nerve system during pregnancy or birth, head injuries, substance usage, and a few medications.
To be able to diagnose a child with ADHD the child must exhibit at least six traits or symptoms that have been observed over time and are causing significant issues. Fidgeting, squirming, or stepping out of their seats when they should be sitting are all signs of ADHD. Other signs include ignoring things and making careless errors. Children who are restless or impulsive may also struggle to wait for their turn interrupting conversations or games, blurt out answers prior to being asked and take other people's things without asking permission.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD should only exhibit five of the nine symptoms over the past six months. During an evaluation the doctor will ask you about your symptoms and their impact on your life. They will also assess you and conduct psychological tests. They might also check your school and employment documents, as well as your previous history of alcohol or drug use and any mental health issues within your family.
The doctor will attempt to determine if there are other conditions that could be causing your symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities or thyroid issues. They will also determine if you've suffered any head injuries or other medical issues that could cause ADHD symptoms, such as seizures. It is important to inform your doctor about any family history of ADHD or any other mental health issues in your family. It's recommended to bring any relevant documents, such as 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 are behavioral, educational and psychosocial. The majority of people with 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 as well as provide an environment that is structured 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 an element of treatment, including family therapy or cognitive therapy. It could also involve relationship counseling or marital counseling.
Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation. It will examine a person's current and in the case of an adult, past health issues, mood and history of ADHD symptoms. It will also request feedback from relatives, friends, colleagues at work, and teachers.
Certain adults may not meet the requirements for an assessment There are a variety of diseases and conditions that could cause similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD. Your GP will compare the symptoms to the criteria, and may refer you to psychiatrists or paediatricians for further assessment.
There are many medications that can aid in reducing the symptoms of ADHD, including stimulants. Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed medicine is a stimulant that increases brain activity in the areas that control behavior and attention. It is available as tablets that release immediately (small doses taken twice to three times a day) or as modified-release tablets that are released throughout the day. Both forms can help improve concentration and focus. They should be taken as prescribed by your doctor.
People with ADHD frequently suffer from mental disorders such as anxiety or depression. These conditions may need to treated along with ADHD or can 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 talking therapy, such as family and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). This type of therapy can help you better know how ADHD affects your child or yourself, and develop strategies to deal with the challenges.
How can I obtain an ADHD assessment?
If you think that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD The first step is to speak to your GP. They should be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an expert ADHD assessment.
When you attend your appointment, be sure that you bring a photo ID. You will also be required to complete some pre-screening questionnaires before the meeting with your psychiatrist. This will ensure that the consultation runs on schedule and that the process of diagnosing you doesn't get delayed. It is crucial to complete these forms as soon as you can prior to the appointment so that your psychiatrist is able to review them prior to your consultation begins.
The expert will then talk to you, your child and any other adults that spend a lot time with you or your kid. This could include babysitters, teachers coaches and other family members. Your specialist will also inquire about your the child's symptoms, their background, and lifestyle.
It is essential to be open and honest during the interview, so that your specialist can be aware of all the issues and problems you are experiencing. It is not uncommon for people to have other mental health conditions in addition to ADHD So, your doctor will also want to check whether you have any other conditions.
After the interview and questionnaires have been completed, the specialist will prepare an extensive report based on their findings. The report will be delivered 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.
It can be difficult for some adults to get diagnosed with ADHD because of the stigma and misinformation that surrounds the disorder. It is crucial to find a professional who has experience diagnosing adults with ADHD, and who will work with you in order to get the treatment that you require. You can also join an ADHD support group, or ask for recommendations from those who have been diagnosed with ADHD.