ADHD Assessment at Cardiff General Hospital<br /><br />We have continued to provide an effective service to our patients despite the COVID-19 outbreak and have developed new standardised clinical pathways in adult ADHD assessment. This includes the introduction of Qb Test as an ADHD screening tool.<br /><br />It is possible that medical professionals have preconceived notions about what people who suffers from ADHD will look like. Before your appointment it is helpful to know the symptoms (traits) of ADHD.<br /><br />What is ADHD assessment?<br /><br />An ADHD assessment is a thorough examination of the symptoms and their impact on daily life. It can be used to determine the root cause of the symptoms and determine the best treatment. This may include behavioural therapy, medication or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. <a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.com/private-adhd-assessment">cheap adhd assessment uk I Am Psychiatry</a> is to decrease the inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness associated with the disorder, improve attitude and ability to manage day-to-day life, and decrease the impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention symptoms. This will also lessen the anxiety that symptoms create and help them reach their potential.<br /><br />The first step is to schedule an appointment with a psychiatrist or psychologist who has the training and experience of diagnosing ADHD. They will request details regarding your symptoms, as well as details regarding your family history and your medical records. They will also talk about your social and work environment to identify any other factors that could be contributing to your symptoms.<br /><br />In addition to the interview with the patient A lot of doctors use questionnaires and rating scales to ensure that they are collecting data that is standardized. For children, this can include teacher and parent interviews and rating scales like the Vanderbilt or Conners indexes. For adults, these are more thorough and may include an entire psychiatric assessment.<br /><br />During an interview, the doctor will ask you when your symptoms first started and how they impact 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 need to experience this in at least two settings and affect their daily functioning.<br /><br />The doctor will also examine your medical history to determine if there are other conditions that may be causing symptoms, such a thyroid disorder or head injury. They will also look at your school records from the past, to determine if the symptoms started before age 12. In certain instances, they may request information from people who know you, such as family members or friends. They may also ask to read any reports written by you, such as notes from your school or work progress.<br /><br />What are the symptoms of ADHD?<br /><br />ADHD is a mental disorder that can lead to difficulties in paying attention to your surroundings, staying organized and focus. It is often known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can cause issues at work, at school and in relationships. It can also make it difficult to cope with anxiety or depression. ADHD can be caused by a range of factors such as genetics.<br /><br />For children to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to show at least six signs or symptoms that have been observed in time and cause serious problems. Fidgeting, squirming, or leaving their seats when they are supposed to be sitting are all signs of ADHD. Other signs include forgetting things and making erroneous mistakes. Children who are agitated and impulsive can also be unable to wait for their turn to play, interrupt conversations or games, or blurt out answers without being asked.<br /><br />Adults diagnosed as ADHD must only show five out of nine symptoms in the last six months. In an assessment, the doctor asks you about your symptoms and their impact on your life. They will also conduct an examination of you and do psychological tests. They may also examine your school and employment records, as well your previous history of alcohol or drug use, as well as any mental health issues within your family.<br /><br />The doctor will also try to rule out any other issues that could be causing the symptoms you're experiencing, including thyroid issues, mood disorders, or learning disabilities. They will also check whether you've suffered any head injuries or medical conditions that may affect ADHD symptoms, such as seizures. You should tell the doctor about any family history of ADHD or any other mental health issues in your family. Bring any relevant documents like old reports or performance evaluations at your workplace, to your appointment.<br /><br />What are the treatment options for ADHD?<br /><br />Treatment options include behavioral, educational, and psychosocial. Most people with ADHD receive some combination of these therapies, and the best results occur when the multidisciplinary approach is employed. Treatment includes teaching parents how to manage the behavior of their children and providing structure at home as well as educating teachers to spot signs of ADHD in children and encourage more behavioural responses in the classroom. Counseling can also be part of the treatment, which includes family therapy or cognitive therapy. It could also involve marital counseling or relationship counseling.<br /><br />Treatment begins with a thorough examination. The evaluation will look at the person's current health and, if they are an adult, previous health issues, mood and history of ADHD symptoms. It also seeks opinions from family members and friends and colleagues at work and even teachers.<br /><br />There are many diseases and conditions that could cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Your GP will compare the symptoms with the criteria and may refer you to psychiatrists or paediatricians for further evaluation.<br /><br />There are several medicines that can reduce the symptoms of ADHD which include stimulants. Methylphenidate is the most frequently used medicine and it increases activity in the parts of the brain responsible for the behavior and attention. It is available in immediate-release tablets, which are small doses that are taken two or three times daily. Or it can be modified-release tablets that release the medication throughout the day. Both forms can increase concentration and focus. You should only take them as directed by your physician.<br /><br />Often people with ADHD also suffer from mental health issues like depression or anxiety. These conditions may require treatment alongside the ADHD or interfere with the use of medications for ADHD. If you or your children are being treated for co-existing disorders, the treatment will be integrated into the treatment of ADHD.<br /><br />Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from therapy for talking like family therapy and individual psychotherapy (psychotherapy). During this type of counseling you will learn to better understand the way your ADHD impacts you or your child, and devise strategies to cope with the issues.<br /><br />How can I get an ADHD assessment?<br /><br />If you think you or your child might have ADHD the first step is to talk to your GP. They must take your concerns seriously and refer you to a specialist ADHD evaluation.<br /><br />If you are attending your appointment, make sure that you bring a an ID photo with you. You will also have to complete some pre-screening questionnaires before the meeting with your psychiatrist. This is to ensure that your consultation can be held to a certain duration, which will help to ensure that the process of diagnosing doesn't get delayed. It is important that you complete these forms as soon as you can before the meeting so that your psychiatrist can look over them prior to your consultation begins.<br /><br />The next step in the process of obtaining an ADHD assessment is to allow the professional to interview you and your child, and any other adults who spend a significant amount of time with you or your child. This could include babysitters, teachers and coaches and other family members. Your specialist will ask you about your symptoms, your child's history and your daily routine.<br /><br /><br /><br />It is very important to be open and honest during the interview to ensure that your doctor can be aware of all the issues and problems you're experiencing. It is not uncommon for people to suffer from other mental health conditions in addition to ADHD, and so your specialist will also want to confirm whether you have any other conditions.<br /><br />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 both you and your child. You can also pay to have your doctor provide letters of recommendation for schools or workplaces.<br /><br />It can be difficult for certain adults to recognize ADHD because of the stigma and misinformation surrounding the disorder. Because of this, it is important to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and is willing to assist you in getting the treatment you need. You may also consider contacting an ADHD support group or seeking recommendations from others who have received diagnoses of ADHD.<br /><br />