Getting Tested For ADHD
Finding a professional qualified to evaluate your child or your adult is the first step. Consult your family doctor or therapist for suggestions.
The person evaluating you will want to know your life background. You'll be asked about your school performance and medical history. They'll also ask the date you first noticed symptoms.
Symptoms
Being tested for ADHD is the first step in managing symptoms that hinder everyday life. The condition can cause a variety of problems, from forgetting work projects to forgetting appointments. Relationships, finances and family are also affected by the symptoms. Whether you are trying to keep up with work, in financial trouble due to excessive spending or are having trouble managing your emotions or your relationship with your children, an ADHD diagnosis can help you find relief from these issues.
Your health care provider will start by interviewing you or your child. They will ask about your child's or your development as well as family history and any illnesses. They will also ask about any other issues that you or your child may have, such as depression or anxiety. They might also discuss the issues with other people in your child's or your life like coaches, teachers or daycare providers.
The health professional will probably utilize rating scales or questionnaires to evaluate your or your child's behavior. They might also ask about your or your child's schooling and accomplishments. Some experts may also ask to look over your medical records, which could include blood tests or x-rays, to rule out medical issues that could be causing symptoms.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, your or your child's symptoms have to be serious enough to cause significant impairment in two environments, such as work and school. The symptoms must have manifested before 12 years of age and must be repeated over time. Your or your child's impulsive behavior must not be a result of other disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
Adults must be able to meet a higher threshold in order to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis that is five out of nine symptoms in the span of six months. The symptoms must be severe in two different situations and be consistent over time. This is the same for adults who are being assessed for bipolar disorders.
A person who has ADHD is usually diagnosed by a psychologist or psychiatrist However, some are screened for it by primary care physicians or pediatricians. You can look online for professionals who specialize in ADHD assessment and treatment, and you can also request recommendations from other health care providers. Verify the credentials of the specialist, including their academic degrees. Also, make sure they accept your health insurance.
Diagnosis
To help a medical professional diagnose ADHD, they will review the symptoms you or your child are experiencing and then conduct a thorough evaluation. This includes a physical exam as well as an interview with your child or you as well as reviewing work or school records, and maybe testing with specialized ADHD tests or questionnaires.
Mental health professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, and primary care providers, including doctors and pediatricians can all diagnose ADHD. If you're not sure of the right person to consult seek recommendations from trusted friends or family members. You can also search online for specialists in your area who specialize in ADHD.
During the examination the healthcare professional will consider factors like the child's or your child's growth, family and personal history, and current life. They may also discuss how symptoms have affected you or your child's life. They might need to talk to teachers or school officials, too especially if you're concerned about your child's academic performance. Old report cards could be helpful in identifying patterns that could indicate ADHD.
A physical exam can help determine if a medical condition is present such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders that could be co-occurring or mimic ADHD. The evaluator might ask you or your child to submit a detailed list with the symptoms that have been present for a certain period of time. They will also usually ask questions geared towards the child's age to provide an accurate understanding of how the symptoms impact daily life.
The evaluator may utilize rating scales or questionnaires to assess ADHD symptoms and determine the severity of the symptoms. They might also conduct a test for you or your child a neuropsychological or learning disability test. These tests do not diagnose ADHD but they can help you understand how your symptoms affect learning and performance.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a bit confusing or even a bit traumatic however, it can also help you feel more confident. The diagnosis also explains why you struggle with certain abilities, such as paying attention, following directions, listening to your surroundings, and organizing tasks that come easily to most people. It can also lead to accommodations at school or at work, which could make a a big difference in how you manage your daily tasks.
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If you suspect your child might have ADHD, start by talking with their primary care physician. They can evaluate your child and refer them to specialists if necessary. It's also a good idea to talk with your child's teachers. Teachers can often provide valuable feedback on your child's school performance.
Your health care provider must be able see how the symptoms affect your child or adult at home and in different settings like school or at work. They must be able to determine if the symptoms impact everyday life in various settings and whether the symptoms are due to another physical or mental disorder. You or your child could be asked questions regarding your family's history of ADHD or mood issues, as well as other conditions or illnesses which can trigger similar symptoms to those of ADHD like anxiety or depression.
Your evaluator may also require you to take tests of your psychological health or a behavior rating scale to check for the presence of ADHD symptoms. You may also be given an exam to rule out medical conditions like thyroid problems or seizures, which may be a sign of the symptoms of ADHD.
It is important to remember that the current diagnostic guidelines stipulate that a person is not able to be diagnosed with ADHD as an adult unless they show symptoms during childhood. The evaluator will require school records you have from your childhood. They may ask your parents or former teachers to explain your symptoms.
Do your research prior to choosing the expert to evaluate. Find out what professional accreditations and degrees they hold. Make sure that the specialist is insured and you are comfortable working with them. Request recommendations and reviews from other professionals who've worked with the specialist that you're thinking of. Some specialists provide online evaluations. This is an ideal option for adults who are unable to schedule an appointment with a primary physician or psychiatrist.
Support
Many people are faced with the challenge of determining the diagnosis of ADHD is overwhelming. You will probably meet with a variety of experts and receive tests or questionnaires. It is essential to do your homework on the professional you choose. Ask your family, friends and therapists for suggestions and search online for professional qualifications and academic degrees. Find out the cost of the professional and whether the examination is covered by your insurance. Some specialists have websites with testimonials from previous patients and clients. It is essential to choose an expert who makes you feel at ease and answers your questions.
Your mental health professional might need to discuss your childhood and current life. The doctor may use rating scales and interview questions with you and your parent. You might be asked to bring your old report cards and performance evaluations, as well as any other records that may help with the screening process. Certain tests designed for specific purposes could be used, such as tests that measure your intelligence or learning disability.
You could be affected by the results of the ADHD screening if you suffer from another condition, such as bipolar disorder or depression. Your evaluator needs to know whether any members of your family suffer from ADHD. If you have family members suffering from ADHD, your chances of developing the disorder are increased.
A successful test for ADHD can lead to an accurate diagnosis and treatment that can enhance your quality of life. Adults with ADHD who have been diagnosed may apply for accommodations in school and at work. Accommodations may include a more peaceful work area, more time to finish tasks, and much more.
Speak with your doctor or coach about ADHD today. If needed, they can refer you to an ADHD specialist. You can also find specialists by asking for recommendations from a family member, a support group, or searching the insurance provider's directory for qualified professionals. BetterHelp is an online service that matches you with licensed therapists who have experience treating ADHD. Start a session in just 48 hours.