ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we remain committed to providing an efficient service to our patients and have piloted new clinical pathways that are standardised for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of the Qb Test as an ADHD screening tool.
Medical professionals may have preconceived notions of what someone with ADHD looks like. It is beneficial to familiarize yourself with the traits (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment.
What is an ADHD assessment?
An ADHD assessment is a comprehensive review of the symptoms, and how they affect daily life. It can be used to identify whether the condition is responsible for the symptoms, and to determine the best course of treatment. This could include medication, behavioural therapy or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. The aim is to reduce the hyperactive, inattentive and impulse-driven symptoms of the disorder, and improve the patients' attitudes towards, and capabilities for managing their day to day lives. This can also reduce the distress that symptoms can cause and help them reach their potential.
The first step is to have an interview with a psychiatrist or psychologist with training and experience in diagnosing ADHD. They will ask you for details about your symptoms and details regarding your family history as well as your medical records. They will also discuss the social and work environments to identify any factors which could be contributing to your symptoms.
In addition to the patient interview, many doctors will utilize rating scales and questionnaires to ensure that they are collecting standardized data. This can include parent-teacher interviews and rating scales such as the Vanderbilt and Conners indexes for children. For adults, these will be more detailed and could include the full psychiatric examination.
During an interview, a doctor will ask you to describe 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. Adults must have this happen in at least two situations and affect their daily functioning.
The doctor will also examine your medical history and will want to check for any other conditions that could be causing your symptoms, such as thyroid issues or head injury. They will also look over your old school records to determine if the symptoms started before turning 12. In certain instances, they may ask for details from people you know, like friends or family. They can also ask you to read any reports written by you such as school or work-related progress notes.
What are the symptoms ADHD?
ADHD is mental health condition that causes issues in paying attention and staying focused, as well as being organized. It is sometimes known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can cause problems at school, in the workplace and in relationships. It can also make it difficult to cope with anxiety and depression. ADHD can be caused by a variety of causes that include genetics.
Children must show at least six of the symptoms or traits that persist over time and cause significant issues to be classified as ADHD. This includes squirming or fidgeting in their seats, leaving their seat when they are supposed to remain seated, having trouble playing or doing leisure activities in a quiet manner, forgetting things often and making rash mistakes. Children who are easily distracted or impulsive might also have trouble waiting for their turn and interrupt games or conversations, blurt out answers before they're asked and steal other people's possessions without asking permission.
Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD should only exhibit five of the nine symptoms over the past six months. In an assessment, the doctor asks you about your symptoms and their impact on your life. They'll also conduct psychological tests and examine you. They might also check your work and school documents as well as your history of drug or alcohol use, as well as any family-related mental health issues.
The doctor will also try to determine if there are any other illnesses that could be contributing to the symptoms you're experiencing, including mood disorders, thyroid problems, or learning disabilities. They will also determine whether you've suffered any head injuries or medical conditions that might affect ADHD symptoms, like seizures. Tell your doctor if you have an extended family history of ADHD or any other mental health problems. It's recommended to bring any relevant records like performance evaluations from your work place or old report cards, with you to your appointment.
What are the treatment options available for ADHD?
Treatment options include behavioral, educational, and psychosocial. The majority of people with ADHD are treated in a combination of these, and the best results are achieved by a multidisciplinary treatment method is used. Treatment involves training parents on how to manage behaviour and provide the structure they need at home, as well as training teachers to identify signs of ADHD in children and encourage more behavioural responses in the classroom. Counseling is also part of the treatment, such as family therapy or cognitive behavior therapy. It may also include marital counseling or relationship counseling.
The treatment starts with a thorough assessment. It will examine a person's present and, if they are an adult, previous health issues, mood, and the history of ADHD symptoms. It also solicits feedback from relatives, friends as well as colleagues at work and teachers.
Certain adults may not meet the criteria needed for an assessment and there are many diseases and conditions that could cause similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD. Your doctor will evaluate the symptoms against the criteria and suggest further examination by a psychiatrist or paediatrician.
There are several medicines that can aid in reducing the symptoms of ADHD such as stimulants. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medicine and it works by increasing activity in parts of the brain that control the behavior and attention. It is available in tablets that are immediate-release (small doses taken two to three times daily) or as modified-release tablets that are released throughout the day. Both forms can improve concentration and focus. It is recommended to only take them as prescribed by your physician.
People with ADHD typically suffer from other mental disorders like anxiety or depression. These conditions may need to treated in conjunction with ADHD or may affect the use of medication for ADHD. If you or your children are being treated for co-existing disorders The treatment will be integrated into the treatment for ADHD.
Many adults with ADHD benefit from therapy for talking like family therapy and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). In this type of therapy you will learn to understand how your ADHD affects you or your child, and develop strategies to deal with the challenges.
How can I obtain an ADHD evaluation?
Talk with your GP If you think you or your child has ADHD. adhd assessment cost uk should take your concerns seriously and send you to an expert ADHD assessment.
Bring your photo ID to the appointment. You will also have to complete some pre-screening questionnaires prior to meeting with your psychiatrist. This will ensure that the consultation is kept on schedule and that the process of diagnosing you doesn't get delayed. It is crucial to complete these forms as fast 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 who spend a lot time with you or your kid. This could include babysitters, teachers, coaches, as well as other family members. Your specialist will ask you about your symptoms, your child's history, and your lifestyle.
It is crucial to be honest and forthcoming during the interview to ensure that your doctor is aware of all the 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 doctor will also want to confirm that you do not have any other conditions.
Once the interview and questionnaires have been completed, your doctor will create a thorough report of their findings. The report will be sent directly to your GP together with copies for you and your child. If you wish your doctor can offer recommendation letters to workplaces or schools at an additional cost.
It can be difficult for certain adults to get diagnosed with ADHD due to the stigma and misinformation surrounding the disorder. For this reason, it is crucial to find a doctor who is skilled in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and is willing to assist you in getting the treatment you need. You can also try contacting an ADHD support group or seeking recommendations from other individuals who have been diagnosed with ADHD.