ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis?
ADHD services in the UK are at a crossroads. The condition is becoming more widely recognized, but the resources are scarce and waiting times are lengthy.
GPs can report symptoms and ask questions, but they are unable to diagnose ADHD or deny an assessment by an expert doctor. This is a medical decision that is made by a psychiatrist.
What is an ADHD assessment?
ADHD is a complex disorder, and an accurate diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified specialist. The person evaluating you will listen to your symptoms and ask you questions and then compare them with current guidelines for diagnosis. They also search at other possible causes of your symptoms, for instance an underlying mental health. A thorough assessment can take a long time and require multiple appointments with a specialist.
You must be honest when answering questions, so that the doctor can assess your symptoms. It is important to remember that a diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed unless your past history, particularly as a child or teen, is considered. Your doctor will ask you questions about your past experiences and behaviour and will also evaluate your current symptoms.
You will be asked to complete questionnaires as well as other tests, including cognitive assessments and rating scales. It is recommended to carry copies of these with you as they will be used by your specialist to help in the assessment process. Your doctor can also provide information from your medical record.
It is important to be aware that the NHS has its limitations, and it is often slow to conduct 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, 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 important to keep in mind that you can request a confidential assessment if you aren't satisfied with the results of your examination.
At the Adult ADHD Clinic, Dr Cubbin accepts referrals from GPs via the Right to Choose scheme, and she's also willing to consult patients privately. This means you can get an assessment fast and efficiently, without having to wait on the NHS waiting list. You can then discuss treatment options and begin to manage your symptoms, to ensure they don't affect your work or your relationships.
Why do I need an ADHD assessment?
A diagnosis of ADHD can have a significant impact on a person. It can impact how people handle their relationships, work and family. Many adults who seek an answer will feel relieved to comprehend why they struggled during school and into adulthood. For some the diagnosis can bring on a range of emotions and be a struggle to manage.
The first step in understanding and managing symptoms is to have an ADHD assessment. However it can be a daunting task, especially 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 where to begin. This guide is designed to help.
The first step in getting an ADHD assessment is to speak to your GP. Your GP will take your symptoms seriously and discuss them with you, asking questions about how they affect your life. They'll also ask whether you are suffering from other symptoms, like depression or anxiety. They can refer you to a mental health specialist typically a psychiatrist trained in neurodevelopmental disorders.
If you've been referred, you'll usually be asked to complete certain pre-screening questions prior to your appointment. They can be accessed through your online portal dashboard. They must be completed prior to your appointment so that your psychiatrist has time to read the questionnaires.
The psychiatrist will conduct a thorough medical-psychiatric exam with you. They will ask about your childhood, family history and your current symptoms. They may also request to interview additional people like your partner or children. During the interview the psychiatrist will be looking for signs of ADHD and any other physical or mental ailments you might have.
The psychiatrist will determine if they believe that you suffer from ADHD, and what type treatment is needed. This will include a discussion on psychosocial intervention and medication (if necessary). The clinician will then compose a report that they will return to your GP, outlining the outcome of your evaluation. The doctor will then suggest a plan of treatment, which you and your GP can agree upon.
How do I get an ADHD evaluation?
Adults looking to treat ADHD symptoms may 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.
Before arranging an appointment with a specialist, it's worthwhile getting familiar with the characteristics and symptoms of adult ADHD so that you know what to expect. It is also helpful to write down examples of these issues in your personal life, which you can discuss during the assessment.
You'll be asked to rate your behaviours in various situations and provide examples of how these behaviors have affected your professional, personal or family life. These questionnaires are designed to uncover any potential issues and determine if you have ADHD. The psychiatrist will prepare an assessment report and will discuss with you what you might require to do. This could include any treatment recommendations.
A correct diagnosis of ADHD can help improve your overall health and how you manage your relationships and your life. It can also allow you to avail a range of treatments and interventions that can help with the symptoms of adult ADHD like cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders or medication.
The first step towards getting an ADHD assessment is to go to your GP and explain the reason you believe you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. Your GP must be able to take your concerns seriously and inquire whether there is evidence to support this, and if they can refer you for a complete diagnostic evaluation.
private adhd assessment for adults are generally conducted by experts who have years of experience working with people with neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. They will also have experience of diagnosing and treating other disorders like anxiety and depression.
If you reside in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland and you are a resident of Northern Ireland, you can receive an ADHD assessment through the NHS through a 'Right to Choose' process. To be eligible you must visit your GP and ask them to make a referral to Psych-UK Ltd under 'Right to Choose to Choose' for an adult ADHD assessment and treatment plan.
What is the cost of 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 enable you to get a more accurate diagnosis, which could help you get better treatment and treatment of your ADHD symptoms.
private adhd assessment for adults can only be diagnosed with ADHD following an extensive medical examination by a qualified healthcare provider such as psychologist or psychiatrist. These assessments typically involve an extensive personal history, observation and feedback from family and acquaintances.
During your consultation, your consultant psychiatrist might ask you questions regarding your medical and family history. You will be asked to complete questionnaires or rating systems that help your doctor determine the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily functioning.
After your appointment At the conclusion of your appointment, Dr Cubbin will prepare a comprehensive ADHD assessment report. With your permission, he will send this report to your GP so they are aware of the findings of your assessment and any treatment recommendations.
Some people choose to pay privately for assessment and treatment of ADHD. This could be a great option if you are not sure whether your GP will accept the Shared Care Agreement, or in the event that you don't want to wait on the NHS waiting list to get an appointment. It is important to remember that a private diagnosis does not necessarily mean you will be eligible for benefits such as PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).
If you're thinking of getting an ADHD assessment, download our adult ADHD screener today and learn more about the condition to find out whether it is affecting your life. You can also download a form letter from ADHD UK to hand to your GP to ask for referral to an NHS ADHD assessment.