ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis?

ADHD services in the UK are at a crossroads. There is an increase in awareness of the condition, but limited resources and extended waiting time.

GPs can relay symptoms and answer questions, but cannot diagnose ADHD or refuse an assessment from a specialist clinician. This is a medical decision that is made by a psychiatrist.

What is ADHD assessment?

ADHD is a complex disorder, and an accurate diagnosis requires a thorough assessment by a professional with experience. The evaluator is able to listen to your symptoms, asks questions and evaluates them against current guidelines for diagnosis. They also look for other possible causes for your symptoms, for instance a co-occurring condition of mental health. A thorough evaluation can take a long time and may require multiple visits with the doctor.

You must be honest when answering questions so that the doctor can assess your symptoms. It is important to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed without looking at your past experiences, especially as a child or teenager. Your specialist will ask you questions about your behavior and experiences, and also looking at your present symptoms.

You will be asked to fill out questionnaires and other tests, like cognitive assessments and rating scales. It is helpful to bring a copy of these documents with you because they will be used by your specialist to assist in the assessment process. Your doctor can also provide details from your medical records.

It is important to keep in mind that the NHS has many limitations, and it is often slow to get an assessment. If you go to your GP with a concern that you may be suffering from ADHD, they must be attentive and refer you to an assessment, often following the Right to Choose pathway.

If your GP decides you do not meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis, they will give you the reason. Most of the time, it is because another condition, such as depression or anxiety, better explains your symptoms. However, it is important to note that you are entitled to seek a private examination if you do not agree with the outcome of your assessment.

At the Adult ADHD Clinic, Dr Cubbin accepts referrals from GPs via the Right to Choose scheme, and she is also happy to see patients privately. This means that you will be able to be assessed quickly and efficiently, without having to wait on the NHS waiting list. You can then discuss treatment options and manage your symptoms so that they do not hinder in your work or relationships.


Why do I need an ADHD assessment?

A diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on an individual. It can change how people view work or relationships, as well as family life. Many adults seeking an answer will feel relieved to understand why they struggled at school and into adulthood. For some, a diagnosis can trigger a variety of emotions and be a challenge to manage.

Getting an ADHD assessment is the first step towards understanding and addressing your symptoms. However it can be a daunting task, especially with NHS waiting times long and private assessments costly, the process can feel like a maze for those who don't know where to start. This guide is designed to help.

Talk to your GP to receive an ADHD assessment. Your GP should be attentive to your symptoms and talk to you about them and ask questions about how they impact your life. They'll also inquire whether you are suffering from other symptoms, for instance depression or anxiety. They can refer you to an expert in mental health, typically psychiatrists who have training in neurodevelopmental disorders.

If you've been referred, you will usually be asked to complete some pre-screening forms prior to your appointment. They can be accessed through your online portal dashboard. The questionnaires must be completed prior to your appointment so that your psychiatrist has time to go through them.

A psychiatrist will then conduct a detailed medical and psychiatric consultation with you. They will ask you about your childhood, family history, and current symptoms. They may also ask you to interview other people like your spouse or children. During the interview, your psychiatrist will be looking for signs of ADHD and any other medical or psychological conditions you have.

The psychiatrist will decide if they believe that you have ADHD, and what type treatment is required. This will include a discussion of medication and psychosocial intervention (if appropriate). The clinician will then prepare a report to forward to your GP informing them of the results of your examination. They will then recommend an appropriate treatment plan, which can be negotiated between you and your GP.

How do I obtain an ADHD evaluation?

Adults who want to address ADHD symptoms might find it frustrating that getting an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take up to two years. There are many private options for you to stay clear of the NHS waiting time.

It's important to familiarise yourself with the symptoms and traits of adult ADHD before you schedule an appointment to ensure that you are prepared. recommended Links to an external site. may also be helpful to write down instances of these issues in your personal life that you could discuss during the assessment.

You will also be asked to rate the severity of your symptoms in different situations, and provide examples of how they've affected your professional, personal or family life. These tests are designed to identify any potential issues and determine whether or not you have ADHD. recommended Links to an external site. will write an assessment report and then discuss with you what you might need to do. This could include any treatment suggestions.

A clear diagnosis of ADHD can help improve your overall health and how you manage your relationships and your life. It also allows you to access a variety of treatments and interventions to help alleviate the symptoms of adult ADHD like cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders or medication.

To get an ADHD assessment, you must first visit your GP to discuss the reasons you think you may have ADHD symptoms. Your GP should be able to take you seriously, ask if have any evidence and recommend a diagnostic assessment.

Private psychiatric assessments are typically conducted by experts who have vast experience working with people with neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. They will also have experience of diagnosing and treating other disorders such as depression and anxiety.

If you live in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland and you are a resident of Northern Ireland, you can get an ADHD assessment on the NHS through a 'Right to Choose' process. You can use this option by asking your GP to recommend you to Psych-UK Ltd for an adult ADHD assessment and treatment plan under "Right to Choose.'

What is the price for an ADHD assessment?

If you've been struggling with symptoms of ADHD for some time and are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it may be time to think about a GP recommendation to consult an expert in the field. This will enable you to get a more accurate diagnose, which can lead to better management and treatment of your ADHD symptoms.

It is important to keep in mind that you can only be diagnosed with ADHD through a thorough medical evaluation conducted by a seasoned healthcare professional, such as psychiatrists or psychologists. These evaluations typically include an extensive personal history, observation and feedback from family and acquaintances.

During your appointment your psychiatrist consultant will talk with you about the issues you are facing and may ask questions about your family history and medical history. You may be asked to fill out questionnaires or rating scales that assist your doctor in assessing the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily activities.

After your consultation, Dr Cubbin will prepare a comprehensive ADHD assessment report. With your permission the doctor will then send this report to your GP to ensure they are aware of the findings of your assessment and any treatment recommendations.

There are a few people who opt to pay privately for their ADHD assessment and treatment. This could be a great option if you are not certain whether your GP will accept a Shared Care Agreement, or should you not wish to be on the NHS waiting list to get an appointment. However, it is important to remember that the existence of a private diagnosis does not automatically mean that you will be qualified for benefits such as PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).

If you're considering undergoing an ADHD assessment, use our adult ADHD screening test today and find out more about the condition and find out how it could be impacting your life. You can also download a form letter from ADHD UK to hand to your GP asking them to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment.