Posted by rchamberlin on July 7, 2006, at 11:15:06
In reply to Re: TOVA test for ADHD, posted by Renee N on January 25, 2000, at 22:16:34
Hopefully somebody is still interested in finding out about the TOVA test and how it works, 'tho there has been no activity on this thread for about 5 1/2 years...
I was 52 when I heard about ADD, and immediately suspected I was a candidate for evaluation. All the typical experiences - inattention, lack of focus, not paying attention, goofing off in class, would do better if applying himself etc.
After an interview with a psychologist, it was suggested I take the TOVA test. There are two phases of testing - unmedicated and medicated with about a week between the two.
Here is how the test worked for me -
I sat in a fairly comfortable chair holding a button in my right hand. I watched a computer screen and was told to only press the button when I saw only one pattern on the screen. There were two different patterns, but I should only press the button for the one with the square on the botton of the screen, and at no other time.
The test went on for a half hour. The sequences appeared random, as well as the amount of time between them.Unmedicated results indicated I was slightly below the line in 4 or 5 areas indicating I had ADD.
I spoke with a psychiatrist next, who then approved the single dose medication (stimulent) for the next test.
A week later, I went back, having taken the little blue pill 1/2 hour before the test.
After taking the TOVA test again, my scores were well above the line indicating the medication had helped me normalize my impulse, focus, concentration and several other areas.
My health insurance paid 80% of the cost and I consider it well worth it.
Medication is not the complete answer though, as I still have to deal with procrastination, followthru, and attending to detail.
My wife and younger daughter can tell if I'm not medicated though, but I can't.
Let me put it this way. When I'm medicated, people are friendly and treat me so much nicer than when I'm not.
E.g. I take a pill, and they improve their attitudes - go figure.
> > But stimulants are used for depression, too. I take methylphenidate sr.
>
> Renee N here---I've alsready been on various stimulants for ...
poster:rchamberlin
thread:19438
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060701/msgs/664841.html