ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis?
The UK's ADHD services are at a crucial point. There is increased recognition of the disorder, however there are limited resources and extended waiting times.
GPs are able to relay symptoms and answer questions, but cannot diagnose ADHD or deny the diagnosis of an expert clinician. This is a decision only a psychiatrist can make.
What is ADHD assessment?
ADHD is a complex disorder, and an accurate diagnosis requires a thorough assessment by a professional with experience. The evaluator will examine your symptoms and ask questions, then compare them with current guidelines for diagnosing. They will also be looking for other possible explanations of your symptoms, like co-occurring mental health issues. Comprehensive evaluations can take several hours and could require more than one visit with the doctor.
It is crucial to be honest when answering the questions so that they can accurately assess your symptoms. It is important to keep in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed without considering your history, particularly as a child or teenager. Your specialist will ask you questions regarding your past experiences and behaviour and will also evaluate your current symptoms.
You will be asked to fill out questionnaires and other tests, such as cognitive assessments and rating scales. Bring copies of these documents since your doctor will use them to aid in the evaluation. Your doctor will also be able to provide information from your medical records.
Be aware that the NHS isn't as big and can be slow to provide an assessment. If you go to your GP and you express concern that you might be suffering from ADHD, he or she should be able to take it seriously and refer you to an assessment.
If your GP determines that you don't meet the criteria for ADHD, they will explain the reason. It's often because another condition such as depression or anxiety better explains the symptoms. It is important to remember that you are entitled to request a private evaluation in the event that you are not satisfied with the conclusions of your examination.
Dr. Cubbin accepts referrals from GPs through the Right to Choose program, and is happy to see private patients. You can receive an assessment quickly, efficiently and without waiting on the NHS. You can then discuss your treatment options and manage your symptoms so that they do not interfere with your work or relationships.
Why do I require an ADHD assessment?
A diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on a person. It can change how people approach work or relationships, as well as family life. Many adults seeking an answer will be relieved to understand why they struggled during school and in adulthood. For some the diagnosis can bring on a range of emotions and be a challenge to deal with.
Achieving an ADHD assessment is the first step towards understanding and addressing your symptoms. However, with NHS waiting times being long and private assessments costing a lot the process can seem like a maze for those who aren't sure what to do. This guide is intended to help.
The first step towards getting an ADHD assessment is to talk to your GP. Your GP will discuss your symptoms with you and ask questions about their impact on your life. They'll also ask whether you suffer from other symptoms, for instance anxiety or depression. They can then refer you to a mental health specialist typically a psychiatrist who is trained in neurodevelopmental disorders.
You will be asked to fill out some pre-screening questionnaires prior to your appointment. These can be accessed through your portal's dashboard online and need to be completed before the appointment so that your doctor has time to go through them prior to the appointment.
A psychiatrist will then conduct a thorough medical and psychiatric consultation with you. They will ask you about your childhood and family history, and your current symptoms. They may also request to interview other individuals, such as your partner or children. During the interview the psychiatrist will be looking for signs of ADHD as well as any other physical or psychological conditions you may have.
The psychiatrist will then make a decision whether or not they believe that you have ADHD and what type of treatment is required. This will include discussion of psychosocial interventions and medications (if appropriate). The clinician will prepare a report that will be sent to your GP outlining the results of your assessment. They will then recommend the treatment plan that can be negotiated between you and your GP.
How can I get an ADHD assessment?
Adults who wish to address ADHD symptoms might be frustrated by the fact that obtaining an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take up to two years. If you're willing to skip the NHS wait times there are plenty of private options available.
Before adhd assessment for adults schedule an appointment with a specialist, it's worthwhile familiarising yourself with the traits and symptoms of adult ADHD so that you are aware of what to expect. It may also be helpful to note instances of these issues in your own life that you might discuss at the time of the assessment.
You'll be asked to rate your conduct in various situations and provide examples of how these behaviors have impacted your professional, personal or family life. These tests are designed to uncover possible issues and determine if you suffer from ADHD. The psychiatrist will prepare an evaluation and explain what you may need to take following that including any treatment recommendations.
A correct diagnosis of ADHD can help improve your overall health and how you manage your relationships and your daily life. You can also avail various treatments and interventions to manage the symptoms of adult ADHD. These include cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.
The first step to getting an ADHD assessment is to visit your GP and explain why you believe you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. Your GP should take you seriously and ask whether there is evidence of this, and if they can refer you for a complete diagnostic assessment.
Private psychiatric examinations are typically performed by specialists who have extensive experience working with patients suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. They also have the experience of assessing and treating other conditions like anxiety and depression.
If you reside in England or Scotland, you can receive an ADHD assessment through the NHS through a 'Right To Choose" process. To use this option you must see your GP and request a referral to Psych-UK Ltd under 'Right to Choose' for an adult ADHD assessment and treatment plan.
What is the cost for an ADHD assessment?
If you've been experiencing symptoms of ADHD or other disorders, it might be time to speak with an expert. This will allow you to receive an accurate diagnosis which can help you get better treatment and management of your ADHD symptoms.
You can only be diagnosed with ADHD after an exhaustive medical assessment by a qualified healthcare professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. These evaluations typically include an extensive personal history, observation and feedback from your family and friends.
During your appointment your psychiatrist consultant will discuss with you the issues you are facing and may ask questions about your family history and medical history. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires or rating systems that help your doctor determine the severity of your symptoms, and how they impact your daily activities.
At the conclusion of your appointment At the conclusion of your appointment, Dr. Cubbin will prepare a comprehensive ADHD assessment report. With your consent the doctor will then send this report to your GP so that they are aware of the results of your evaluation and any treatment recommendations.
There are some who prefer to pay privately for their ADHD evaluation and treatment. If you're not certain if your GP accepts a Shared Care Agreement or if waiting on the NHS list for an appointment isn't something you want to do, this might be a great option. It is important to note that a private diagnosis does not mean you will automatically be eligible for benefits such as PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).
Use our ADHD adult screener to learn more about this condition and determine if it is affecting your daily life. You can also download a form letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP asking them to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment.