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

The UK's ADHD services are at a critical point. There is an increase in awareness of the condition, but limited resources and extended waiting times.

adhd assessment adults are able to relay symptoms and ask questions, but they cannot diagnose ADHD nor refuse an assessment by a specialist clinician. This is a decision that only a psychiatrist can make.

What is ADHD assessment?

ADHD is a challenging disorder, and an accurate diagnosis requires a thorough assessment by a specialist with experience. The expert is able to listen to your symptoms, asks you questions and evaluates them against current guidelines for diagnosis. They are also looking for other possible explanations of your symptoms, such as a co-occurring mental health condition. A thorough assessment can take several hours and may require multiple appointments with the doctor.

It is crucial that you are honest when answering the questions, so that they can accurately evaluate your symptoms. It is important to note that a diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed without considering your history, particularly when you were a teenager or a child. Your physician will ask questions about your past experiences and behaviour as well as evaluate your current symptoms.

You will be asked for questionnaires as well as other tests such as cognitive assessments or rating scales. Bring copies of these documents since your doctor will use them in the assessment. Your doctor may also provide information from your medical record.

Be aware that the NHS is not as extensive and may be slow to provide an assessment. If you go to your GP in the hope that you may be suffering from ADHD, they must be attentive and refer you for an assessment, often following the Right to Choose pathway.

If your GP decides that you do not fit the criteria for ADHD and they explain why. It is usually because a different condition, such as anxiety or depression is more likely to explain your symptoms. It is important to note that you are entitled to request a private evaluation if you do not agree with the results of your assessment.

Dr. Cubbin accepts referrals from GPs via the Right to Choose program, and is happy to consult private patients. You can get an assessment fast efficiently, effectively and without waiting on the NHS. You can then discuss treatment options and manage your symptoms to ensure that they don't interfere in your work or relationships.

Why should I be tested for ADHD?

A diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on an individual. It can alter the way people view their family, work, and relationships. Many adults who seek a diagnosis be relieved to comprehend the reasons they struggled in school and later in life. However, for others a diagnosis can bring up many emotions and may be difficult to manage.

The first step in understanding and managing symptoms is to get an ADHD assessment. The process can be a bit confusing for people who don't know where to start, particularly due to the lengthy NHS waiting times and the cost of private assessments. This guide is designed to help.

The first step to getting an ADHD assessment is to speak to your GP. Your GP should take your symptoms seriously and talk to you about them and ask questions about how they affect your life. They'll also inquire if you have other symptoms, like anxiety or depression. They can refer you to an expert in mental health, typically psychiatrists who have training in neurodevelopmental disorders.

If you've been referred to a psychiatrist, you will typically be asked to fill out certain pre-screening questions prior to your appointment. These are accessible through your portal's online dashboard. They should be completed prior to the appointment so that your doctor has time to go through them prior to the appointment.

The psychiatrist will conduct a detailed medical-psychiatric examination together with you. They will ask about your childhood, family history, and your current symptoms. They may also ask you to interview other individuals like your spouse or children. During the consultation, the psychiatrist will be looking for signs of ADHD as well as any other physical or psychological issues you may be suffering from.

The psychiatrist will then make a decision whether or not they believe that you have ADHD and what kind of treatment is required. This will include a discussion of psychosocial interventions and medications (if applicable). The clinician will then compose a report that they will forward to your GP, outlining the outcome of your examination. The doctor will then suggest an appropriate treatment plan, which you and your GP can agree upon.

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. If you're willing to bypass the NHS wait times there are a variety of private options available.

Before arranging an appointment with a specialist, it's worthwhile familiarising yourself with the traits and signs of adult ADHD so that you are aware of what to expect. You can also write down specific examples from your personal life to share during the examination.

You'll be asked to rate your behavior in various situations and provide examples of how these issues have impacted your professional, personal or family life. These questionnaires are designed to uncover any potential issues and determine if you suffer from ADHD. The psychiatrist will prepare a report, and will discuss with you what you might require to do. This could include any treatment recommendations.

A proper diagnosis of ADHD can help improve your overall health and the way you manage relationships and your life. You can also avail various treatments and interventions to help manage the symptoms of adult ADHD. These include cognitive behavioral therapy or medication.

To receive an ADHD assessment, you should first visit your GP to discuss the reasons you believe you have ADHD symptoms. Your GP must be able to take your concerns seriously and inquire whether there is evidence to support this, and then refer you to a complete diagnosis.

Private psychiatric assessments are typically carried out by specialists with years of experience working with patients suffering from neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD. They also have the experience of diagnosing and treating other conditions such as depression and anxiety.

If you reside in England or Scotland, you can receive an ADHD assessment through the NHS through a 'Right To Choose" process. To avail this option, you need to see your GP and ask them to make an appointment with Psych-UK Ltd under 'Right to Choose to Choose' for an adult ADHD clinical assessment and treatment plan.

What is the cost 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 consider a GP recommendation to consult an expert in the field. This will help you identify your ADHD symptoms more accurately and can result in better treatment and management of your ADHD symptoms.


You will only be diagnosed with ADHD following an exhaustive medical assessment by a licensed healthcare professional like a psychiatrist or psychologist. These evaluations typically include an extensive personal history and observations, as well as feedback from family and friends.

During your visit the psychiatrist you consult with might ask you questions regarding your medical history and family history. You will be asked to complete questionnaires or rating systems that aid your doctor determine the severity of your symptoms, and how they impact your daily life.

At the end of your appointment, Dr Cubbin will prepare a comprehensive ADHD assessment report. If you give him permission, he will send this to your GP so that they are aware of the findings of your assessment and any recommendations for treatment.

Some people choose to pay privately for the treatment and assessment of ADHD. If you're not certain whether 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 can be a good alternative. It is important to remember that a private diagnoses does not mean that you will automatically be eligible to receive benefits such as PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).

If you are considering getting an ADHD assessment, download our adult ADHD screener today to learn more about the condition to determine how it could be impacting your life. adhd assessment for adults can also download the letter from ADHD UK and give this to your GP, asking them to refer you for an NHS ADHD assessment.