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ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been able to provide an effective service for our patients. We have also tested new clinical pathways for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of the Qb Test as an ADHD screening tool. Medical professionals may have preconceived ideas about what someone with ADHD looks 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 an in-depth examination of the symptoms and their impact on daily life. It is used to determine if the condition is causing the symptoms, and also to determine the best path for treatment. This could include behavioural therapy, medication or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. The goal is to lessen the inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive symptoms of the disorder and to improve the patient's attitudes toward and capabilities to manage their daily lives. This can also help reduce the stress caused by symptoms and help them to reach their full potential. The process begins with an interview with an expert psychologist or psychiatrist who has training and experience in diagnosing ADHD. They will ask for specific details regarding your symptoms, as well as details regarding your family history and medical records. They will also discuss the working and social settings to identify any factors which could be contributing to your symptoms. Many doctors utilize questionnaires and ratings scales in addition to the interview with the patient to ensure they are gathering standard data. These include parent-teacher meetings and rating scales, such as the Vanderbilt and Conners indexes for children. For adults, these will be more in-depth and can involve the full psychiatric examination. During an interview, the doctor will ask you to describe when your symptoms began 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 must be observed in two or more situations and interfere with the normal flow of your daily functioning. The doctor will also look at your medical history and will want to check for other conditions that might be causing the symptoms, such as thyroid disease or head injury. They will also examine your past school records, to determine if the symptoms started before age 12. In some cases they may request details from people you know, such as relatives or friends. They may also request to see any written reports such as school notes or work. What are the signs of ADHD? ADHD is mental health condition that causes problems with paying attention, staying focused and being organised. It is also called attention deficit disorder (ADHD). It can lead to difficulties at school, in the workplace and in relationships. It can make it difficult to manage depression or anxiety. ADHD can be caused by a variety of factors such as genetics. For children to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to show at least six traits or signs that appear in time and cause significant issues. Fidgeting, squirming, or stepping out of their seats when they should be seated are all symptoms of ADHD. Other symptoms include forgetting things and making careless errors. Children who are agitated and impulsive also be unable to wait for their turn and interrupt conversations or games, or blurt out answers without being asked. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD need to meet an upper threshold of criteria in order to have five out of nine symptoms in the last six months. During an examination, your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They'll also conduct psychological tests and examine your. They might also check your school and work documents, as well as your history of drug and alcohol consumption, and any mental health issues in your family. The doctor will attempt to determine if there are other conditions that could be causing your symptoms, including learning disabilities, mood disorders or thyroid issues. They will also determine if you have suffered any head injuries or medical conditions that could affect ADHD symptoms, like seizures. Tell your doctor if you have an extended family history of ADHD or any other mental health issues. Bring any relevant documentation such as old report cards or performance assessments at your workplace, to your appointment. What are the treatment options for ADHD? Treatment options include behavioral, educational and psychosocial. The majority of people with ADHD are treated in a combination, and best results are achieved when a multidisciplinary approach to treatment is employed. Treatment involves teaching parents how to manage the behavior of their children and providing structure at home as well as educating teachers to recognize symptoms of ADHD in children and encourage more behavioural responses in the classroom. Counseling may also be an element of treatment, which includes family therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. It could also include relationship counseling or marital counseling. Treatment starts with a thorough assessment. The evaluation will look at the person's current health and in the case of an adult, previous health issues, mood and history of ADHD symptoms. It will also ask opinions from family members and friends and colleagues at work and teachers. There are a myriad of conditions and illnesses that can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Your GP will check the symptoms against the criteria, and may refer you for further assessment by psychiatrists or paediatricians. There are several medicines that can reduce the symptoms of ADHD such as stimulants. Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed medication is effective in increasing brain activity in the areas that regulate behavior and attention. It is available in immediate-release tablets that are small doses taken three or twice times daily. It can also be modified-release tablets, which release the medication throughout the day. Both types can aid in improving concentration and focus. It is recommended to take them as prescribed by your doctor. Often people with ADHD also have other mental health disorders like anxiety or depression. These disorders may need to be treated in conjunction with the ADHD or interfere with the use of medications for ADHD. If you or your child is being treated for a condition that is coexisting the treatment for that disorder will be integrated into the treatment of the ADHD. Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from talking therapy, such as family and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). During this type of counseling you will be able to better understand the way your ADHD affects you or your child, and develop strategies to cope with the issues. How do secret info get an ADHD assessment? If you suspect that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD The first step is to speak to your GP. They must take your concerns seriously and refer you for an expert ADHD assessment. Bring your photo ID to the appointment. You will also be required to fill out some pre-screening questions prior to meeting with your psychiatrist. This will ensure that the consultation runs on time and that your diagnosis process isn't delayed. It is important that you complete these forms as quickly as you can before the meeting so that your psychiatrist is able to review them prior to your consultation begins. The next step of obtaining an ADHD assessment is to have the expert interview you and your child along with any other adults who spend a lot of time with you or your child. This may include babysitters, teachers coaches, and other family members. Your specialist may also be able to ask questions about your or your child's symptoms, history, and the way of life. It is very important 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 are suffering from any other disorders. After the interview and questionnaires have been completed, your specialist will write an extensive report on their findings. The report will be delivered to your GP and copies for you and your child. If you'd like, your specialist can also provide recommendations to schools or workplaces for an additional cost. It isn't easy for some adults to recognize ADHD because of the stigma and misinformation that surrounds the disorder. This is why it is important to find a specialist who is skilled in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and is willing to help you get the treatment you need. You can also reach out to an ADHD support group, or ask for recommendations from those who have been diagnosed with ADHD.