ADHD Testing with Stephanie East
What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, impairing in multiple contexts, and developmentally inappropriate behavior.
Despite multiple studies, researchers have yet to determine the exact causes of ADHD. However, scientists have discovered a strong genetic link since ADHD can run in families. More than 20 genetic studies have shown evidence that ADHD is strongly inherited, yet also influenced by multiple interacting genes. Eleven percent of U.S. children and 16 percent of U.S. adults carry an ADHD diagnosis.
The website for CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder) is an excellent resource for more information about ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD
The diagnostic process may include collateral information from family members or a partner, behavior rating scales, computerized neurocognitive tests, and standardized clinical interviews.
I do not diagnose ADHD during an initial visit. The initial visit is always a standard psychiatric comprehensive evaluation.
ADHD rarely occurs alone, and research has shown that more than two-thirds of people with ADHD have one or more co-existing conditions. The most common include depression, anxiety disorders, learning disabilities and substance use disorders. Many of these conditions have symptoms that can mimic ADHD symptoms, and may, in fact, be mistaken for ADHD.
A comprehensive evaluation includes screening for co-existing conditions. When one or more co-existing conditions are present along with ADHD, it is essential that all are diagnosed and treated.
If ADHD symptoms need to be explored as a result of the initial psychiatric evaluation, testing will be administered, and an interview will take place during a subsequent two-hour office visit.