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ADHD Testing – The First Step to Diagnosing ADHD A comprehensive ADHD assessment involves a clinical interview with the person being assessed as well as one or more questionnaires designed to evaluate symptoms. Teachers and parents are typically interviewed, too. To be diagnosed with ADHD children or adults must have symptomatic behavior in at least two or more situations and the symptoms aren't caused by another medical problem like seizures or thyroid disorders. History The first step to get a diagnosis of ADHD is talking to your primary care doctor. They may refer you to an expert in mental health, who will do an assessment that includes a comprehensive medical history and physical exam. Standardized behavior rating scales for ADHD, ADD symptom checklists and psychological tests are usually included in this evaluation. ADHD is more frequently diagnosed in children than adults. However it can affect anyone at any age. Adults with ADHD who aren't treated may experience issues at work, in their relationships, and are more susceptible to addiction and depression. It is crucial to receive the correct diagnosis, so that treatment can be initiated. Although there were reports of children who had behavioral issues similar to those associated with ADHD as early as the 18th century, the modern ADHD history begins with Sir Frederick Still's observations in 1902. Still was a famous pediatrician who noted that many of his patients were easily distracted and had difficulty staying focused on their work. He believed these symptoms were related to the way their brains functioned and not due to poor parenting or lazy attitude. The American Psychological Association published its first edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1952. At the time, it was known as attention deficit disorder (ADD) without hyperactivity. The APA did not recognize hyperactivity as a sign of something essential until 1980 when DSM-III was released. At that point, the ADD subtype was dropped and the resultant designation was ADHD. The KMN Psych ADHD testing procedure thoroughly examines the behavioral and cognitive patterns to determine if there is the ADHD diagnosis. This information can be used to design tailored interventions as well as educational accommodations and treatment plans that boost productivity, daily functioning and long-term performance. During the initial visit the doctor will provide a thorough history of the person’s problem behavior, as well as their impact on his or her home life, school performance and work. The doctor will also collect details about the person's family history and will conduct a family interview. They will employ standardized behavior rating scales for ADHD, ADD/HD symptom checklists and psychological tests that test working memory, executive functioning skills (abilities like decision-making and planning) spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning (thinking) abilities. Physical Exam The ADHD screening process typically involves a physical exam that measures height, weight, and pulse. A medical history is taken, including any prescription, over-the-counter and illicit drugs that are regularly taken. The examiner will also assess vision and hearing. The examiner will also look to determine if any other health or behavioral disorders are present that mimic the symptoms of ADHD. It's important to screen for other disorders since many people with ADHD have co-existing disorders like anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities. When focusing on ADHD symptoms by themselves they can be missed. The person who is being assessed will be interviewed by the psychologist or psychiatric nurse practitioner conducting the assessment. They will inquire about the individual's behavior at home, at school and work. If online adhd testing , they will also discuss the family and social history of the person. The psychologist might ask the person to fill out one or more standardized ADHD rating scales. These are questionnaires that make use of research to measure the behavior of people who have and those people who do not have ADHD. The person who is being evaluated must answer the questions honestly and candidly. They should not hide any information due to embarrassment or shame. During the interview, the clinician will review any notes or reports from previous evaluations. They will search for a clear pattern of symptoms that are consistent over time and that don't get better or worse. They will consider the severity of the symptoms and how they impact the individual's life. In certain cases, the examiner will suggest a medical examination or laboratory tests to rule out the underlying physical causes of the symptoms, such as thyroid problems and seizure disorders. These medical exams are not part of the diagnosis, but they could be vital in identifying other health issues that may be causing or mimicking the symptoms of ADHD. An accurate and timely diagnosis is critical to ensure that a person receives the support they need in school, at work and in their community. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a range of treatment options and accommodations that could improve efficiency and daily functioning. A proper diagnosis can aid individuals in understanding their individual issues, and pinpoint the strategies and techniques that are most effective for them. Psychological Tests If you are concerned that you or your children could have ADHD then you should seek out an expert in health care who is certified to diagnose and treat this disorder. The person you see will ask you questions to determine whether the symptoms you or child are experiencing fit the criteria for ADHD. They will also conduct a thorough psychological evaluation, which may involve tests for cognitive function and behavioral assessments. The evaluation is important as it helps differentiate ADHD from other disorders that have similar symptoms, like depression or anxiety. During the diagnostic interview your doctor will conduct a series of routine questions about your behavior and how it affects your life. They might also talk to your parents and/or teachers to get an understanding of the symptoms you are experiencing. This can aid in determining whether they are caused by ADHD or whether other factors, such as stress or medical problems might be the cause. Your evaluator will also want to be aware of your family history as well as any other mental health issues that you have encountered. Write down your concerns and specific behaviors to make sure you don't lose any details. Your evaluator could also ask you fill out questionnaires about your mood and performance for example, the Adult ADHD Rating Scale or the Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Attention and Symptoms (CAARS). The main component of the clinical assessment for ADHD is to observe your behavior in various environments, including at your home, school or work, as well as play. During these observation your evaluator will take note of the frequency and severity of your symptoms, as well as their impact on your life. He or she may use a standard observation form to record the results. Your evaluator may recommend a structured behavioral plan, cognitive-behavioral treatment, or even parent training as behavioral interventions. These techniques can teach your child or yourself how to cope with the symptoms of ADHD. They can also help you establish structure and consistency in your home at school, as well as at work to lessen the disruptions caused by impulsivity and hyperactivity. Counseling The correct diagnosis is crucial to ensure the most effective treatment. This process is very individual and requires lots of clinical judgment. It typically involves analyzing data from several sources. This includes evaluating the behavior of the child and academic rating scales that are completed by parents, teachers and children; interviewing the individual; and monitoring them in various environments (e.g. school, home, or at work). The clinician will also assess the symptoms and how they impact the ability to manage everyday tasks, relationships and other aspects of daily life. A thorough evaluation typically lasts between one and two hours. Some clinics require parents and educators to fill out online questionnaires that are sent directly to the clinic; others will provide a parent and teacher evaluation in person during the initial appointment. In addition, a review of previous evaluations and treatment records are usually included in the assessment. In certain situations, a physician may ask information from people who have direct knowledge of the patient's symptoms, such as family members, friends, religious and scout leaders, coaches and teachers. The clinician will want to be aware of how the symptoms have been present and their severity. They will also determine if the patient has any other mental health issues that could be contributing to their ADHD symptoms, for example depression or anxiety. When the results are available the doctor will discuss them with the patient. They will also discuss what can be done to alleviate the symptoms. The physician may suggest special counseling, like dialectical behavior therapy or cognitive therapy. These specific therapies are designed to tackle many of the issues that people with ADHD confront, such as inattention and difficulty organizing, planning, and following through. They can also offer practical strategies for managing your daily responsibilities and relationships, and also teach strategies to regulate emotions and self-care. In some instances, medication may be recommended to help manage the symptoms.