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

The UK's ADHD services are at a critical point. There is a growing awareness of the disorder, however there are limited resources and extended waiting time.

GPs are able to relay symptoms and answer questions, but they are unable to diagnose ADHD or refuse an assessment from a specialist physician. This is a choice that only a psychiatrist is able to make.

What is ADHD assessment?

ADHD is a complex disorder and accurate diagnosis requires a thorough assessment by a seasoned specialist. The evaluator will examine your symptoms and ask you questions, then compare them with current guidelines for diagnosing. They also search for other possible explanations for your symptoms, like an underlying mental health. A thorough assessment can take several hours and may require multiple appointments with the doctor.

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

You will be asked to fill out questionnaires and other tests such as cognitive assessments or rating scales. It is important to bring a copy of these documents with you as they will be used by your physician to help in the assessment process. Your GP can also provide details from your medical records.

Be aware that the NHS isn't as big and can be slow to provide an assessment. If you visit your GP with a concern that you might have ADHD, they must be attentive and refer you to an assessment, usually using the Right to Choose pathway.

If your GP finds that you don't meet the criteria for ADHD the doctor will explain the reason. Often, it will be because a different issue, such as depression or anxiety that better explains your symptoms. It is crucial to remember that you can request a private evaluation if you're not satisfied with the results of your assessment.

Dr. Cubbin accepts referrals from doctors through the Right to Choose program, and is happy to consult with private patients. This means you can get an assessment fast and efficiently, without the NHS waiting list. You can then discuss treatment options and manage your symptoms so that they don't interfere with your work or relationships.

Why should I be assessed for ADHD?

A diagnosis of ADHD may affect an individual. It can impact how people handle their family, work, and relationships. Many adults who seek a diagnosis feel relieved to know the reasons they struggled in school and in adulthood. For others, a diagnosis can bring up many emotions and can be difficult to manage.

Achieving an ADHD assessment is the first step towards understanding and managing your symptoms. However, with NHS waiting times being long and private assessments costly, the process can feel like a maze for those who don't know where to begin. This guide is designed to help.

The first step to getting an ADHD assessment is to speak to your GP. Your GP will discuss your symptoms with you and ask questions about their impact on your life. They will also ask whether you are suffering from other symptoms, for instance anxiety or depression. They can refer you to a mental health specialist usually a psychiatrist who is trained in neurodevelopmental disorders.

You will be asked to fill in some pre-screening questions before your appointment. These are accessible via your portal's online dashboard. It is important to complete them prior to your appointment so that your psychiatrist has time to go through them.

A psychiatrist will then conduct a thorough medical and psychiatric interview with you. They will ask you questions about your childhood and family history, and your current symptoms. They may also ask to interview your partner or child. During the interview, your psychiatrist will be looking for signs of ADHD and any other mental or medical issues you may have.

The psychiatrist will then make a determination whether or not they believe you suffer from ADHD and what kind of treatment is needed. This will include a discussion of psychosocial interventions as well as medication (if appropriate). The doctor will then write a report to send back to your GP, outlining the outcome of your assessment. The doctor will then suggest a plan of treatment, which you and your GP can agree on.

How do I obtain an ADHD evaluation?

Getting an ADHD assessment on the NHS can take up to two years, which can be very frustrating for adults who wish to treat their symptoms. There are many private options if you want to stay clear of the NHS waiting times.

Before adhd assessment in adults schedule an appointment with an expert, it's worth getting familiar with the characteristics and symptoms of adult ADHD so that you are aware of what to expect. It is also helpful to note examples of these issues in your own life that you could discuss at the time of the assessment.

You will also be asked to assess the severity of your symptoms in different situations, and also to provide examples of how they've affected your personal, professional or family life. These questionnaires are meant to identify any possible issues and determine if you have ADHD. The psychiatrist will write an assessment report and then discuss with you what you may need to do. This may include any treatment suggestions.

A clear diagnosis of ADHD can help improve your overall health and the way you manage relationships and your daily life. adhd assessment adults can also access many treatments and interventions to help manage the symptoms of adult ADHD. These include cognitive behavioral therapy or medication.

The first step in getting an ADHD assessment is to visit your GP and explain the reason you think you have 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 assessments are typically performed by professionals with vast experience working with patients suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. They will also be familiar with diagnosing and treating disorders like anxiety or depression.

If you reside in England or Scotland and are eligible, you can get an ADHD assessment through the NHS using a 'Right to Choose" procedure. You can make use of this option by asking your GP to refer you to Psych-UK Ltd for an adult ADHD assessment and treatment plan under the "Right to Choose.'

What is the cost of an ADHD assessment?

If you've been experiencing symptoms of ADHD for a while and you are still struggling, it could be time to consider an GP recommendation to consult an expert in the field. This will help you identify your ADHD symptoms more accurately, which can lead to better management and treatment of your ADHD symptoms.


You can only be diagnosed with ADHD after a thorough medical evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider such as psychologist or psychiatrist. These evaluations typically include a detailed personal history and observations, along with feedback from friends and family.

During your visit your psychiatrist consultant may ask you questions about your medical and family history. You'll also be asked to complete questionnaires or rating scales that aid your doctor in assessing the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.

At the conclusion of your consultation, Dr Cubbin will write you a comprehensive ADHD assessment report. With your consent the doctor will then send this to your GP so they are aware of the findings of your assessment and any treatment recommendations.

There are some people who prefer to pay privately for their ADHD assessment and treatment. This can be a good option if you are not sure whether your GP will accept an agreement called a Shared Care Agreement, or should you not wish to be on the NHS waiting list to get an appointment. It is important to note that a private diagnosis does not mean that you will automatically qualify for benefits such as PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).

If you're considering undergoing an ADHD assessment, download our adult ADHD screening test today and find out more about the condition to find out if it might be affecting your life. You can also download a letter from ADHD UK to present to your GP asking for referral to an NHS ADHD assessment.