Amen clinic

[Eataash]

I’ve been reading Daniel Amen’s book and his story about using SPECT scan and also his mention of supplements. Has anyone try his clinic or ready his books? Any thoughts?

[JamiHIS Administrator]

Dear Eataash:

Thank you for contacting CHADD's National Resource Center on ADHD. I understand you are looking for more information about brain imaging scans to diagnose and treat ADHD. The standard diagnostic process for ADHD does not include brain imaging scans. These types of scans can be costly and often insurance does not cover them as they are not part of the standard of care for ADHD.

ADHD is diagnosed through the following measures:

"Although there is no single medical, physical, or genetic test for ADHD, a diagnostic evaluation can be provided by a qualified mental health care professional or physician who gathers information from multiple sources. These sources include ADHD symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales, a detailed history of past and current functioning, and information obtained from family members or significant others who know the person well. Some practitioners will also conduct tests of cognitive ability and academic achievement in order to rule out a possible learning disability. ADHD cannot be diagnosed accurately just from brief office observations or simply by talking to the person." chadd.org/for-adults/diagno...

Here's some more information about this topic:

psychologytoday.com/us/blog...

Russell Barkley, a well respected and preeminent researcher on ADHD talks about the use of brain scans in this video: youtu.be/R_HCw-QePaA(Not working as expected?).

Also, here is some more information about supplements: chadd.org/about-adhd/comple....

Please speak with your doctor before you take any supplements because they can cause interactions if you are taking any other medication or have certain medical conditions.

I hope you find this information helpful. If you have further questions, please let us know.

Sincerely,

Jami

Health Information Team Manager

CHADD's National Resource Center on ADHD