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Do you have difficulty concentrating and are easily distracted? Restless and hyperactive? If this is something you have been experiencing for a long time, it could be ADHD.
Assessing ADHD
Understanding and diagnosing ADHD has come a long way in recent years. As a result, treatments and medications have become more effective in counteracting symptoms. In this article, we explain what an ADHD assessment is, how it works and the steps to seek help. At Lavendla, we are here to help you improve your quality of life. We help with ADHD assessments for both adults and children.
Symptoms of ADHD
Symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) usually involve a combination of:
- Concentration difficulties: Problems with staying focused and completing tasks.
- Hyperactivity: Excessive mobility and impulsiveness in, for example, speech or actions.
- Disorganized behaviour: Difficulties in planning and organizing.
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The symptoms are often noticed at an early age, but they are not always recognized in childhood. ADHD comes in different degrees of severity such as mild, moderate and severe. Sometimes, those with mild symptoms can be overlooked and be misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. That doesn’t mean, however, that it can’t affect everyday functioning and well-being. We can help you find the right support and help based on your unique needs.
How does an ADHD assessment work?
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of ADHD, the first step is to seek professional help. As it can be unclear what this means, we have produced an overview of how an ADHD assessment usually works:
- Assessment by a specialist: A licensed psychologist or psychiatrist will make an initial assessment. You will also complete assessment forms.
- Tests and interviews: This may include psychological and cognitive tests, a basic diagnostic interview to examine symptoms in childhood and adulthood, and interviews with family members or other loved ones. The doctor also makes an assessment, which may include ruling out other medical conditions with diagnostic measures like blood tests.
- Diagnostic evaluation: Your doctor and psychologist come together to determine a diagnosis. You will then receive feedback and a neuropsychiatric report with treatment recommendations for further help.
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How long does an assessment take?
An ADHD assessment takes about 8-10 hours for adults over around 4-6 weeks. For children, the assessment takes longer due to school involvement and other factors. If you receive an ADHD diagnosis, it is important to discuss treatment options with your doctor. Interventions may include medication, psychological treatment with cognitive behavioural therapy, or a combination of both.
Living with undiagnosed ADHD can be incredibly difficult. But remember, it’s never too late to seek help and get the care you need. The first step is to talk to a healthcare provider who can guide you through the assessment and diagnostic process.
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12 common questions and answers about ADHD
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and is a neuropsychiatric diagnosis. It is characterized by difficulty concentrating, impulsivity and hyperactivity.
How does an ADHD assessment work?
An ADHD assessment often involves a combination of medical evaluation, psychological tests and interviews. The process is carried out by specialized doctors and psychologists to establish an accurate diagnosis.
What are the most common symptoms of ADHD?
The most common symptoms include difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, hyperactivity and inability to complete tasks. Therefore, it can be difficult to focus on one thing at a time, miss details and forget things.
What treatment options are available?
Treatment for ADHD can include medication, cognitive behavioural therapy adapted for ADHD, or a combination of both. The aim is to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
How long does it take to get an ADHD diagnosis?
The time it takes to get an ADHD diagnosis can vary. However, it usually takes 4-8 weeks from the first visit to the doctor to the final diagnosis, depending on waiting times and the scope of the investigation.
How much does an ADHD assessment and treatment cost?
The cost of an ADHD assessment and treatment can vary depending on where you live and the type of care you seek. It is therefore important to consult with your doctor to get an idea of possible costs. You are welcome to consult with us at Lavendla to get an estimate of the cost of an ADHD assessment.
Can adults get ADHD?
Yes, ADHD is present at any age. Sometimes the symptoms are missed in childhood but they can become more apparent as responsibilities and demands increase in adulthood.
Do I need a referral for an ADHD assessment?
If you seek an assessment via the public healthcare system, you need a referral via your healthcare center. In the private sector, no referral is needed and wait times are often shorter.
Are the results of an ADHD assessment confidential?
Yes, all information gathered during the assessment is confidential and covered by the personal health information protection act.
Is it different for a woman to be diagnosed with ADHD?
ADHD is often underdiagnosed in girls and women. Symptoms may present differently, or be incorrectly attributed to a different diagnosis or condition.
I have a lot of anxiety and feel depressed, can you help me with that too?
If you have symptoms of ADHD and anxiety and depression, you can get treatment for this too. At Lavendla, we have specialists who can help you.
What treatment is available for ADHD?
Seeking help and treatment for ADHD is an important process that can significantly improve your quality of life. If you suspect that you are suffering from ADHD-related symptoms, you can follow these steps:
1: Diagnosis
First and foremost, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis. An evaluation is usually carried out by both a psychiatrist and a psychologist who work together on the assessment.
2. Medication
Medication may include stimulant drugs such as Ritalin, or non-stimulant drugs such as Strattera. As each individual is unique, it can take time to find the right dose and type of medication. Medication works for many but not all and for those with milder symptoms, psychological treatment may be sufficient.
3. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for ADHD
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a common method that can help you manage your symptoms and improve your daily life. CBT is available in an adapted form specifically designed for those with a neuropsychiatric diagnosis. You will learn how to organize, plan, manage stress and work on self-confidence.
4. Lifestyle changes for ADHD
When you have a neuropsychiatric diagnosis, it is important to have good routines to improve quality of life and manage your symptoms. This can include:
- Regular exercise
- Sleep hygiene
- Structured diet
5. Support system and accommodations
A good support system can do wonders for your health. Therefore, family, friends and support groups can give you the extra push you need. There are also informational courses for family members that can be helpful.
A neuropsychiatric diagnosis also means certain rights, such as support at school if you are a child and work if you are an adult.
6. Follow-up and adjustment
After starting treatment, it is important to follow up regularly with your healthcare provider to see if adjustments need to be made and to make sure you are getting a good effect from the treatment.
As starting treatment can often seem daunting or challenging, the best step in the right direction can be just having a conversation with a psychologist or therapist. That’s why we offer introductory sessions with our therapists where you can connect over video for 20 or 45 minutes. Do not hesitate to reach out for support. Together, we can make the difficult easier.
