ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we remain committed to providing an effective service to our patients and have piloted new clinical pathways for adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of the Qb Test as an assessment tool for ADHD.
It is possible that medical staff have preconceived notions about what an individual who suffers from ADHD will appear 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 thorough review of the symptoms and their impact on daily living. It can be used to determine the root cause of the symptoms and to determine the most effective treatment. This may include medication or Cognitive Behavioural therapy. The goal is to decrease the inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive symptoms of the disorder and to improve the patients' attitudes towards and capabilities to manage their daily lives. This will also help to reduce the stress caused by symptoms and help patients to reach their maximum potential.
The first step is to have an interview with a psychologist or psychiatrist with training and experience in diagnosing ADHD. They will ask for details regarding your symptoms and information on your family history and medical records. They will also discuss your work and social environment to identify any factors that could be contributing to your symptoms.
A lot of doctors use questionnaires and ratings scales in addition to an interview with the patient to ensure they are collecting standard data. For children, this may include parent and teacher interviews and rating scales such as the Vanderbilt or Conners indexes. For adults, these will be more in-depth and can involve an entire psychiatric assessment.
During the interview, a doctor will try to find out the date when your symptoms first began to manifest and the 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 should experience this in at least two different settings and impact their daily activities.
The doctor will also review your medical history and be looking for any other conditions that could cause the symptoms, such as a thyroid condition or head injury. They will also examine your previous school records to determine if the symptoms began before age 12. In some instances they may ask for information from people who know you, like relatives or friends. They may also ask to read any reports written by you, such as notes from your school or work progress.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD is a mental illness that can lead to difficulties in paying attention and staying organized, as well as difficulty focusing. It is also called attention deficit disorder (ADHD). It can cause problems at school, at work and in relationships. It can also make it difficult to manage depression or anxiety. how to get adhd assessment can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics.
For children to be diagnosed with ADHD the child must exhibit at least six traits or symptoms that have been observed over time and are causing significant issues. These include fidgeting or squirming in their seat or leaving their seat even when they should be seated, having difficulty playing or taking part in leisure activities at a secluded pace frequently forgetting things and making rash mistakes. Children who are agitated and impulsive also be unable to wait for their turn to play, interrupt conversations or games, or blurt out answers without being asked.
Adults diagnosed as ADHD must only show five of the nine symptoms within the last six months. In an assessment the doctor will ask you about your symptoms and their impact on your life. They will also conduct an examination of you and conduct psychological tests. They will also examine your work and school records and your history of drug and alcohol use, as well as any family-related mental health issues.
The doctor will rule out other issues that may be causing your symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities or thyroid issues. They will also look to see whether you've suffered any head injuries or medical conditions that may affect ADHD symptoms, like 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 documentation like performance evaluations from your workplace or old report cards, with you to your appointment.
What are the treatment options available for ADHD?
Treatment options include behavioral, educational and psychosocial. Most people with ADHD are treated using a combination of these, and the best results are obtained when a multidisciplinary treatment approach is used. Treatment includes teaching parents how to manage behavior and provide structure at home, as well as training teachers to recognize symptoms of ADHD in children and encourage more behavioral responses in the classroom. Counseling is also a component of the treatment plan. This could include family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and relationship or marital counseling.
The treatment begins with a thorough evaluation. This looks at a person's present and, if they are an adult, past health issues, mood and the history of ADHD symptoms. It also solicits for feedback from relatives and friends as well as colleagues at work and teachers.
Certain adults may not meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis, and there are many ailments and conditions that may cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Your GP will compare the symptoms with the criteria and may refer you to an apologist or psychiatrist for further evaluation.
Stimulants are one of the drugs that can reduce ADHD symptoms. Methylphenidate is the most widely prescribed medication. It increases activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and behaviour. It is available in immediate-release tablets (small doses taken up to three times a day) or as modified-release tablets that are released throughout the day. Both forms can help improve concentration and focus. It is best to use them in accordance with the prescriptions of your doctor.
People who suffer from ADHD often have other mental disorders such as depression or anxiety. These disorders may need to be treated in conjunction with ADHD or may affect the use of medication for ADHD. If your child or you is being treated for a coexisting condition the treatment for that disorder will be integrated into the treatment for ADHD.
Many people with ADHD benefit from talking therapy, such as family and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). This type of therapy can help you better understand how ADHD affects your child or you and devise strategies to overcome the challenges.
How can I get an ADHD assessment?
Talk to your GP If you think you or your child has ADHD. They must take your concerns seriously and recommend a specialist ADHD assessment.
If you are attending your appointment, be sure that you bring a photo ID. You will be asked to complete some pre-screening questions prior to meeting with your psychiatrist. This is to ensure that your consultation is kept to a reasonable duration, which helps to ensure that the process of diagnosing does not get delayed. It is important to complete these forms as soon as possible so that your psychiatrist has the time to review the forms.
The next step of obtaining an ADHD assessment is to have the expert interview you and your child, and any other adults who spend a lot of time with your child or you. This could include teachers, babysitters and coaches and other family members. Your specialist will also be able to ask questions about your or the child's symptoms, history, and the way of life.
It is important to be honest and transparent during the interview to ensure that your doctor is aware of all the issues and problems that you are facing. It is not unusual for people to suffer from other mental disorders in addition to ADHD. Your doctor will want to make sure that you don't have 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, along with copies for you and your child. If you'd like your doctor to offer recommendation letters to workplaces or schools at an additional cost.
For some adults, it can be difficult to be diagnosed with ADHD because of the stigma and misconceptions about the disorder. It is essential to find a professional who has experience diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and who will assist you to get the treatment that you need. You can also try contacting an ADHD support group or asking for recommendations from others who have been diagnosed with ADHD.