How to Prepare for Neuropsychological Testing

Neuropsychology studies the interactions between the physical structures in the brain and a person’s psychology. The science has been around since the 1950s, when imaging the brain became possible. New leaps in imaging technology encouraged rapid growth in neuropsychological testing in recent years.

Today, these tests can help patients with many ailments, including:

• Mood disorders
• Developmental delays
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Memory disorders
• Multiple Sclerosis

Although neuropsychological testing has become more common in order to help these patients, it continues to be nerve-wracking for some first-time patients. Properly preparing for neuropsychological tests can help you feel at ease throughout the process.

Ask What Type of Tests Your Psychiatrist Will Do

Neuropsychology is a wide-ranging field that continues to grow. As such, there are many different types of neuropsychological tests that your psychiatrist can conduct. The medical professionals will choose the types of tests you need based on your symptoms and needs. Neuropsychological exams might test your:

• Visuospatial skills
• Memory
• Executive function
• Intelligence
• Language

Psychiatrists may run several of these tests or just one type. Furthermore, there are specific neuropsychological exams for suspected dementia. To know what to expect, be sure to ask your psychiatrist what types of neuropsychological exams you will complete. At this time, you may also ask ho long these tests are expected to take.

Prepare Yourself Emotionally

Diagnostic testing of any kind can be emotionally difficult. The worry of it can be particularly intense when psychiatrists are testing things like your intelligence and cognitive abilities. It’s important to prepare yourself for the emotions you may feel and remember a few key points, such as:

• Your Georgia neuropsychologist wants to help you, not judge you
• While these are tests, there is no failing or passing
• No matter the diagnosis, you are the same person you were before the test
• A diagnosis can help you get the tools and help you need to improve your life

If things get emotionally difficult, try to remember why you agreed to neuropsychological testing in the first place. Why do you want to be healthier? Maybe you want to be more present for your loved ones, or maybe you simply want to enjoy your life more. There’s no wrong reason to pursue health. Just find yours and come back to it if you feel overwhelmed.

The 24-Hours Before Your Neuropsychological Test in Georgia

Your actions in the day before your test can affect the results. That’s why it’s important to take good care of yourself before the test. For example, avoid alcohol or other intoxicating substances the night before your test.

Before you go to bed, write down a list of your medications, including dosages and times taken. You should include over-the-counter medications and supplements on this list as well. At this time, you may also want to write down any questions you have for the psychiatrist so that you do not forget.

Furthermore, you should go to bed early and try to get a good night’s rest because being tired can change the way your brain works. Finally, be sure to eat a good breakfast the morning before your tests. Sometimes, neuropsychological tests can take a long time and you may not have the chance to eat for a while.

On the day of the test, make sure to bring:

• Glasses and/or hearing aids
• Your list of medications and questions
• Your photo identification and insurance card, if applicable

Most importantly: follow psychiatrists’ orders in the hours leading up to your neuropsychological testing in Georgia. If you’re looking for neuropsychological testing in Georgia, contact LifeStance Health today. Our helpful staff can ease your mind and get you set up with the testing you need.