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ADHD Testing – The First Step to Diagnosing ADHD A complete ADHD evaluation involves a thorough interview with the person being evaluated, and one or more standardized questionnaires that are designed to assess symptoms. Teachers and parents are frequently interviewed too. Children or adults who are diagnosed with ADHD must exhibit symptomatic behaviors in at least two settings, and the symptoms cannot be caused by other medical conditions like thyroid disorders or seizure disorders. History The first step of getting a diagnosis of ADHD is talking to your primary care provider. You may be referred to psychiatrists who will conduct an evaluation that includes a full history and physical examination. The assessment includes standardized behavior rating scales for ADHD and ADD symptom lists and psychological tests. ADHD is more frequently diagnosed in children than adults. The disorder can affect anyone at any age. Adults with ADHD who aren't treated may face issues at work, in relationships, and could be more prone to addiction and depression. It is essential to obtain a proper diagnosis, so that treatment can be initiated. There have been reports of children with behavioral problems similar to those of ADHD as early as the 18th century, the modern ADHD history began with Sir Frederick Still's observations in 1902. Sir Frederick Still was a renowned child psychiatrist who noticed that his children were easily distracted and could not stay focused on their tasks. He believed that these symptoms were related to the way their brains functioned and not the result of bad parenting or lazy attitudes. The American Psychological Association published its first edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1952. At the time, it was referred to as attention deficit disorder (ADD) without hyperactivity. The APA didn't recognize hyperactivity as a symptom essential until 1980, when DSM-III was introduced. The ADD subtype was removed and the resulting classification was changed to ADHD. KMN Psych’s ADHD testing procedure thoroughly examines the patterns of behavior and cognitive functioning to determine if there is an ADHD diagnosis. The results are used to design individualized interventions and educational accommodations as and treatment plans which improve efficiency, daily functioning and long-term results. During the initial visit, the clinician takes a detailed history of the person’s problem behavior, as well as their impact on their home life, school performance, and professional career. The clinician will also gather details about the family history of the person and will also interview family members. They will use standardized behavioral rating scales for ADHD and symptoms of ADD/HD and psychological tests that examine executive function, working memory, skills (abilities like making decisions and planning), visual and spatial abilities (related to space) and reasoning (thinking). Physical Exam The ADHD screening process typically includes physical examination that measures the height, weight and pulse. The medical history is taken which includes prescription, over the prescription and illicit drugs. The examiner will also test hearing and vision. The examiner will also look to see if other disorders of the brain or body are present that resemble the symptoms of ADHD. It is important to screen for co-existing conditions such as depression, anxiety or learning disabilities. They can be ignored when we focus on the symptoms of ADHD. The person being assessed will be interviewed by the psychologist or psychiatric nursing practitioner conducting the assessment. They will inquire about the behavior of the person at school as well as at home and at work. They will also discuss the family and social history of the person, if appropriate. The psychologist will ask the patient to fill out one or more of the standardized ADHD ratings scales. These are questionnaires that use research to compare behavior of people with ADHD and those without. The person being evaluated should answer the questions honestly and candidly. They should not repress any information out of shame or embarrassment. During the interview, the doctor will go through any notes or records from previous evaluations. They will look for a clear pattern of symptoms that is regular over time and don't get better or worse. They will evaluate the severity of symptoms and their impact on a person's daily life. In some cases an examiner may suggest a medical exam or laboratory tests to rule out the underlying physical causes for the symptoms, like seizures and thyroid issues. testing for adult adhd aren't part of the diagnosis, however they could be vital in helping to identify other health issues that could be causing or similar to the symptoms of ADHD. An accurate and timely diagnosis is essential to ensure that an individual receives the support they need in their school or at work, as well as in their community. A valid ADHD diagnosis can open a wide range of accommodations and treatment options that can improve daily functioning, productivity, and long-term achievement. A correct diagnosis can aid people in understanding their specific issues, and pinpoint the strategies and methods that work best for them. Psychological Tests If you are concerned that you or your children could be suffering from ADHD, you should consult an expert in health care who is trained to recognize and treat this condition. The person you meet with will ask you various questions to determine if the signs you or your child is experiencing meet the criteria for ADHD. He or she will also conduct a thorough psychological assessment, which could include tests of cognitive ability and behavioral assessment. The evaluation is crucial because it helps differentiate ADHD from other disorders that have similar symptoms, like depression or anxiety. During the diagnostic interview your doctor will ask you a series of standardized questions about your behavior and how it affects your life. They may also speak with your parents and/or teachers to gain a better understanding of the signs you are experiencing. This can help determine if they are a result of ADHD or whether other factors like stress or medical issues may be the cause. Your evaluator may also want to know about your family history and any other mental health issues that you have experienced. You can record your concerns and specific behaviors to ensure you don't forget any details. Your evaluator could also ask you fill out questionnaires on your mood and functioning, such as the Adult ADHD Rating Scale or the Computerized Assessment of Attention and Symptoms (CAARS). Behavioural observations in a variety of environments, like at home, school or at work, as well when you play is an important aspect of the ADHD clinical evaluation. In these instances, your evaluator will note the frequency and intensity of your symptoms as well as their impact on your daily life. The evaluator will utilize a standard observation form to record the outcomes of the examination. Your evaluator may recommend a structured behavior plan, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or parent training as behavioral interventions. These methods can assist you or your child cope with the symptoms associated with ADHD. They can assist you in creating the right structure and consistency at home, in school and help reduce the disruptions that hyperactivity and impulsivity cause. Counseling Making the right diagnosis is crucial for getting an effective treatment. This process is highly individual and requires a lot of clinical judgment. It typically involves analyzing information from various sources. This involves evaluating behavior and educational rating scales completed parents, teachers, and children, observing the person, and watching them in different situations (e.g. home, school, and work). The doctor will also evaluate the symptoms and how they affect the ability to manage daily tasks, relationships, and other aspects of life. A thorough evaluation typically takes between one and two hours. Some clinics will ask parents and teachers complete online questionnaires and send them directly to the clinic. Other clinicians will conduct a parent-teacher assessment during the first appointment. The assessment will also include a review of previous evaluations and the treatment records. In certain instances the doctor may seek information from other people who are directly aware of the patient's symptoms, such as family members or friends, religious or scout leaders, coaches, and teachers. The doctor will want be aware of how the symptoms have been present and their severity. They will also determine if the individual has any other mental health issues that may be contributing to their ADHD symptoms, for example depression or anxiety. The doctor will then discuss the results with the patient. They will also discuss the best ways to manage the symptoms. The clinician may recommend special counseling, like dialectical behavior therapy or cognitive therapy. These specialized therapies are designed to address the numerous challenges that people with ADHD face. This includes impulsivity, planning, organization and following through. They also teach techniques such as self-care and emotional regulation and practical strategies to manage everyday responsibilities and relationships. In some cases, medication can be prescribed to manage symptoms.