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ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital Despite the COVID-19 pandemic we have remained committed to providing an effective service to our patients. We have also piloted new clinical pathways that are standardised for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of Qb Test as an assessment tool for ADHD. Medical professionals can have preconceived ideas about what someone suffering from ADHD looks like. It is helpful to familiarize yourself with the characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment. What is an ADHD assessment? An ADHD assessment is a comprehensive review of the symptoms, and how they impact on daily life. It can be used to determine if the condition is responsible for the symptoms, and to determine the best path for treatment. This could include behavioural therapy, medication or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. The goal is to reduce inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness that are associated with the disorder, improve attitudes and abilities to manage day-to-day life, and decrease the impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention signs. This will also lessen the stress that symptoms can cause and help them reach their potential. The procedure begins with an interview with an expert psychiatrist or psychologist who has training and experience in diagnosing ADHD. They will want to know the specific details about your symptoms, along with your family history and medical records. They will also review your work and social environment to determine if there are any other factors that could be contributing to your symptoms. Many doctors use questionnaires and ratings scales in addition to interviews with the patient to ensure they are collecting the right information. These include parent-teacher meetings and rating scales like the Vanderbilt and Conners indexes for children. Adults will have a more detailed interview, which may include a full mental health evaluation. During the interview, a doctor will try to determine when your symptoms first started and the impact they have on your daily 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 should experience this in at least two situations and impact their daily activities. The doctor will also examine your medical history to determine if there are other conditions creating symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or head injury. They will also review your previous school records to determine if any of the symptoms started before age 12. In some instances, they might seek details from people you know, like friends or family. They may also request to see any written reports like notes from school or work. What are the symptoms of ADHD? ADHD is a mental health disorder that causes difficulties in paying attention and staying focused, as well as being organized. It is also called attention deficit disorder (ADHD). It can cause problems at school, at work and in relationships. It can also make it hard to deal with anxiety and depression. ADHD can be caused by a range of factors such as genetics. For a child to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to show at least six signs or symptoms that have been observed over time and are causing serious problems. Fidgeting, squirming, or stepping out of their seats when they should be sitting are all symptoms of ADHD. Other signs include forgetting things and making erroneous mistakes. Children who are constantly distracted and impulsive also be trouble waiting for their turn, interrupt games or conversations, or blurt out answers without being asked. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD should only exhibit five of the nine symptoms over the past six months. During the evaluation the doctor will ask you about your symptoms and the impact on your life. They will also assess your psychological health and conduct tests. They may also examine your employment and school records, as well your history of drug or alcohol use, as well as any mental health issues that may be present in your family. The doctor will attempt to eliminate other illnesses that could be contributing to your symptoms, like learning disabilities, mood disorders or thyroid issues. They will also check if you have had any head injuries or medical issues that could cause ADHD symptoms, such as seizures. You should tell the doctor about any family history of ADHD or any other mental health issues that are in your family. It's recommended to bring any relevant records like the performance evaluations you receive from your job or old reports with you to your appointment. What are the treatment options for ADHD? Treatment options include behavioral, educational and psychosocial. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive some combination of these treatments, and most effective results are achieved when the multidisciplinary approach is employed. conversational tone involves teaching parents how to manage their behavior and provide an environment for their children to be in, as well as training teachers to spot signs of ADHD in children and encourage more behavioral responses in the classroom. Counseling may also be part of the treatment plan. This could include family therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and relationship or marital counseling. Treatment begins with a thorough examination. This looks at a person's current health and in the case of an adult, previous health issues, mood and the history of ADHD symptoms. It will also request feedback from family members, friends as well as colleagues at work and teachers. There are many ailments and conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Your doctor will evaluate the symptoms to the criteria, and may refer you to a psychiatrist or paediatrician to conduct a further evaluation. Stimulants are one of the drugs that can reduce ADHD symptoms. Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed medicine is a stimulant that increases brain activity in areas that control attention and behavior. It is available in tablets that release immediately, which are small doses that are taken two or three times a day. Or it can be modified-release tablets, which release the medication throughout the day. Both forms can help improve concentration and focus. You should only take them as directed by your physician. People suffering from ADHD often have other mental disorders like depression or anxiety. These conditions may need to treated along with ADHD or can make it more difficult to treat ADHD. If your child or you is being treated for a condition that is coexisting the treatment for that disorder will be integrated with the treatment of ADHD. Many people with ADHD benefit from therapy for talking that includes family and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). This type of counseling will help you comprehend how ADHD affects your child or yourself, and develop strategies to deal with the difficulties. How can I get an ADHD assessment? If you think that you or your child may have ADHD The first step is to speak to your GP. They must take your concerns seriously and recommend a specialist ADHD assessment. When you attend your appointment, make sure to have an ID photo with you. You will also be required to fill out some pre-screening questions prior to meeting with your psychiatrist. This is so that the consultation can be kept to duration, which will help to ensure that the process of diagnosing is not delayed. It is crucial to complete these forms as quickly as you can before the meeting so that your psychiatrist can look over them before the consultation starts. The expert will then speak with you, your child and any other adults that spend a lot time with you or your kid. This could include teachers, babysitters, coaches as well as other family members. Your doctor will also inquire about your the child's symptoms, their the history of your child, and their the way of life. It is important to be honest and transparent during the interview to ensure that your doctor can understand all issues and difficulties you are facing. It is not unusual for people to have other mental health conditions in addition to ADHD, and so your specialist will also need to ensure that you do not have any other disorders. After the interview and questionnaires are completed, your specialist prepares an extensive report based on their findings. The report will be sent directly to your GP together with copies for you and your child. If you wish your doctor to send recommendation letters to workplaces or schools for an additional fee. It can be difficult for some adults to get diagnosed with ADHD due to the stigma and misinformation surrounding the disorder. This is why it is essential to find a doctor who is experienced in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and who is willing to help you get the treatment you need. You can also reach out to an ADHD support group, or seek recommendations from those who have been diagnosed with ADHD.