ADHD Assessment
A healthcare practitioner who specializes in neurology or mental health disorders will conduct the evaluation. They will use self-reports and standard rating scales, and also interview other sources such as teachers or family members in order to get a general picture of the individual's behavior.
They will also order tests to rule out other health conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is characterized by the symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Adults suffering from ADHD might have difficulties in many aspects of their life, including school, work and relationships. In some instances the frustrations triggered by ADHD symptoms lead them to seek a diagnosis. It could be that they're slipping behind in their work due to trouble with meeting deadlines, or their relationships may be deteriorating because they are incapable of listening and empathizing with other people.
During an ADHD evaluation A psychologist or psychiatrist will interview the individual about their symptoms and how they impact their daily life. They will go over the patient's medical, psychiatric and family history. They will also administer standard tests to determine if the patient suffers from ADHD. These tests include questionnaires, a behavioral rating scale, as well as information from relatives and friends.
In addition, the specialist at NYU Langone will ask about other conditions that might be responsible for the symptoms. This could include depression and anxiety that can be co-occurring with ADHD. I Am Psychiatry will examine the symptoms of both conditions to determine if there's any connection between them. They will then provide treatment recommendations based upon their findings.
An individual who is subjected to an ADHD assessment usually feels a sense of relief that they are able to finally express the reasons behind their struggles and realize that they're not just indifferent or unwilling to try. They may be frustrated and angry for not receiving an earlier diagnosis and sadness at the impact that their untreated ADHD has affected their lives and the lives of those closest to them.
If an adult is deciding to get an assessment for ADHD the first step is to find a psychiatrist or psychologist who has undergone specialized training in this disorder. A family physician or a group of people suffering from ADHD can recommend them. They can also call the local hospital that is affiliated with a university or a graduate school in psychology to ask for recommendations. They can also make use of an online database to find professionals who specialize in ADHD. They can also reach out to their insurance company to inquire whether they have providers in their network who are qualified to conduct ADHD tests.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing ADHD is a process that involves a clinical examination. A psychiatrist with a medical license and a medical education will analyze the mental and physical aspects of the disorder. They will inquire about your childhood experiences and how your symptoms can interfere with your current life. The psychiatrist will also conduct complete medical histories to identify co-existing conditions that could be causing your symptoms, such as thyroid issues or anxiety disorders.
A Psychiatrist can also speak with your partner, spouse, parents, children and close friends in order to learn more about your symptoms and how they affect you and if they started before you turned 12. You might be asked to fill out one or more Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scales IV surveys (BAARS-IV). These are reliable tools to help healthcare professionals understand your symptoms and their impact on your life. The BAARS-IV includes self-reports from you as well as reports from family, friends, or partners.
Your doctor will want be aware of how your symptoms interfere with school, work, and your relationships. They will ask you about your educational and medical background, any medications you currently take or have previously taken, and any health issues you may be suffering from. They will also inquire about your lifestyle and any stress you may be experiencing.
The psychiatrist will evaluate whether you have the inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, or a combination of both. The inattentive form of ADHD is described as having difficulty paying attention, forgetting important details and forgetting what you just did. The hyperactive/impulsive pattern of ADHD is characterized by fidgeting, interrupting others, and being always on the go.
Your psychiatrist will discuss your treatment options and may recommend a comprehensive treatment plan. This could include medication or therapy. When combined with other therapies, a lot of people see their symptoms improve or disappear. In some cases the psychiatrist can identify another psychiatric disorder that can mask the symptoms of ADHD and treat it.
Treatment
If you're diagnosed of ADHD, a psychiatrist can prescribe medication. They might also suggest talking therapy or other non-medical treatments. They usually work in conjunction with counselors, psychologists, and social workers to coordinate the patient's care and balance medical and other interventions. The majority of insurance plans that cover mental health insurance cover visits to psychiatrists.
When you see your psychiatrist, they will inquire about your symptoms and how they have affected your life. They may want to talk with your parents or your partner, too. They may also want to know about your experiences in childhood. The more your doctor knows about your past, the better they will be able to assist you with the current issues.
Psychiatrists are uniquely qualified to prescribe ADHD drugs such as stimulants that are thought to increase and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. They can alter the dosage based on your response to the medication. They may also prescribe other types of medications, including the non-stimulants atomoxetine as well as bupropion. They work more slowly than stimulants but can be good alternatives for those with health issues or can't take stimulants because of the adverse effects.
Some people suffering from ADHD are also suffering from other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. Your NYU Langone physician will ask you about your moods to determine if this is the problem that's the cause of your ADHD symptoms.
Talk therapy or psychological counseling can assist adults suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms and cope with the challenges they face at work as well as at home. A therapist can help you learn cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which can help you change negative patterns of thinking and increase your ability to manage your behavior. Counseling can also help you develop relationship skills that can help with issues at home or in the workplace.
Certain people with ADHD struggle with relationships both at home and work because of their impulsive behavior. Counseling can help you control your emotions and improve your interactions with family members and coworkers. Counseling can help you deal with frustration and dissatisfaction, which are common among adults.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD symptoms also have other mental health issues, like depressions, anxiety disorders, or substance abuse disorders. A psychiatrist can provide treatment for all of these conditions, helping a person with ADHD to find a treatment that is effective for them. The psychiatrist may even be in a position to recommend a therapist who specializes in treating ADHD.
Psychiatrists can assess your symptoms and suggest a treatment plan that includes psychotherapy, coaching and nuanced treatment plans. They are the only professionals who are capable of prescribing stimulant medication to treat ADHD and adjusting dosages according to the patient's response to treatment. Psychologists are more likely than other professionals to employ cognitive behavioral therapy and other behavioural interventions to help a person with ADHD manage their ADHD symptoms.
Counsellors who are licensed mental health counselors or licensed professional counsellors may also be beneficial to those who suffer from ADHD. They are able to discuss the difficult emotions and psychological issues associated with ADHD, such as difficulty with relationships and work performance. They can also teach strategies for coping and offer family counseling to those who are struggling with the symptoms of ADHD in their loved children. The majority of insurance plans cover the counseling services provided by counselors. They are also less expensive than psychiatrists or psychologists.
Another option for assessing and managing ADHD symptoms is Neurofeedback therapy, which uses electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor brain activity. The data is used to identify and training attentional problems, by teaching the brain to better process and control its internal activities. Neurofeedback can be used to treat ADHD and anxiety, depression or sleep disorders.
Choosing the right psychotherapist or psychiatrist is not an easy task, but it's important to consider the individual's specific needs and symptoms as much as the background and experience of the doctor. Patients can narrow their options by using online sources and local listings. Patients should look at credentials, client reviews and patient experiences to determine which one is suitable for them.