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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 there are a lack of resources and lengthy waiting times.

GPs can relay symptoms and answer questions, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or deny an assessment from a specialist physician. This is a clinical choice that is taken by a psychiatrist.

What is ADHD assessment?

ADHD is adhd assessment for adults and accurate diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified specialist. The examiner is able to listen to your symptoms, asks questions, and evaluates them against current diagnostic guidelines. They also search for other possible causes for your symptoms, like an underlying mental health. A thorough assessment could take several hours and may require multiple appointments with the specialist.

You must be honest in answering questions so that the doctor can accurately assess your symptoms. It is important to remember that a diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed until your past history, particularly when you were a teenager or child, is considered. Your specialist will ask you questions regarding your past experiences and behaviour, as well as assess your current symptoms.

You will be asked for questionnaires and other tests such as rating scales or cognitive assessments. It is important to carry copies of these documents with you as they will be used by your specialist to help in the assessment process. Your doctor can also provide details from your medical record.

It is important to be aware that the NHS has its limitations, and it is often slow to receive an assessment. If you visit your GP with a concern that you may be suffering from ADHD, they must be attentive and refer you to an assessment, often using the Right to Choose pathway.

If your GP decides that you do not fit the criteria for ADHD, they will explain why. It's often because another condition such as depression or anxiety better explains the symptoms. It is important to remember that you can request a confidential evaluation if you are not satisfied with the results of your examination.

At the Adult ADHD Clinic, Dr Cubbin receives referrals from GPs under the Right to Choose scheme, and she is also able to see patients privately. You can get an assessment quickly, efficiently and without waiting on the NHS. You can discuss treatment options and begin to manage your symptoms to ensure they don't affect your work or your relationships.

Why should I be tested for ADHD?


A diagnosis of ADHD can affect an individual. It can alter the way people view their work, relationships and families. Many people who seek a diagnosis find it is a relief to understand the reasons they struggled in school and in adulthood. However, for others a diagnosis can bring up a range of emotions and can be a challenge to deal with.

The process of obtaining an ADHD assessment is the first step towards understanding and addressing your symptoms. The process can be a bit confusing for people who don't know where to begin, especially with the long NHS waiting times and costly private assessments. This guide is intended to help.

The first step in getting an ADHD assessment is to talk 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, for instance depression or anxiety. They will then refer you to a mental health professional typically a psychiatrist trained in neurodevelopmental disorders.

You will be asked to complete some pre-screening questions prior to your appointment. These can be accessed through your portal's online dashboard. They need to be completed before the appointment time, so that your psychiatrist has time to review them prior to the consultation.

The psychiatrist will conduct an in-depth medical-psychiatric evaluation together with you. They will ask you about your childhood, family history and your current symptoms. They may also ask to speak with your partner or your child. During the interview the psychiatrist will look for signs of ADHD and also any other physical or mental conditions you may have.

The psychiatrist will then decide whether or not they believe you suffer from ADHD and what type of treatment is needed. This will include a discussion on psychosocial intervention and medication (if applicable). The clinician will draft a report which will be sent to your GP detailing the findings of your evaluation. They will then suggest an appropriate treatment plan, which may be agreed upon jointly by you and your GP.

How can I obtain an ADHD assessment?

Achieving an ADHD assessment on the NHS could take up to two years, which can be very frustrating for adults who wish to treat their symptoms. If you're ready to skip the NHS waiting times there are plenty of private options.

It's important to familiarise yourself with the signs and characteristics of adult ADHD prior to scheduling an appointment so that you're prepared. You can also note down specific examples from your own life to discuss during the examination.

You'll be asked to rate your conduct in various situations, and provide examples of how these symptoms have affected your personal, professional or family life. These tests are designed to pinpoint any potential issues and determine if you suffer from ADHD. The psychiatrist will then create an evaluation and explain what you may need to take in the future, including any suggestions for treatment.

If you suffer from ADHD, a clear diagnosis can lead to better wellbeing and improve the way you manage your relationships and your life. It can also enable you to avail a range of treatments and interventions that can help with the symptoms of adult ADHD, such as cognitive therapy for behavioural problems or medication.

For an ADHD assessment, you should first visit your GP to discuss the reasons you think you may have ADHD symptoms. Your GP must be able to take your concerns seriously and ask if there is any evidence to support this, and then refer you to a complete diagnostic evaluation.

Private psychiatric assessments are typically done by experts who have years of experience working with patients suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD. They are also experienced with assessing and treating issues such as anxiety or depression.

If you reside in England or Scotland you are eligible for an ADHD assessment through the NHS using a 'Right to Choose" procedure. To be eligible you must visit your GP and request a referral to Psych-UK Ltd under 'Right to Choose for an adult ADHD clinical 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 talk to an expert. This will allow you to receive an accurate diagnosis, which can result in better treatment and management of your ADHD symptoms.

It is important to keep in mind that you can only get diagnosed with ADHD by undergoing a thorough medical evaluation conducted by an experienced healthcare professional, like a psychologist or psychiatrist. These assessments usually involve an extensive personal history and observations, as well as feedback from friends and family.

During your appointment, your consultant psychiatrist may ask you questions about your medical and family history. You will 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 functioning.

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

Some people opt to pay privately for treatment and assessment of ADHD. If you're not sure if your GP accepts a Shared Care Agreement or if waiting on the NHS list to schedule an appointment is not something you want to do, this might be a good option. It is important to remember that a private diagnosis does not mean that you'll automatically qualify for benefits like PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).

Take our ADHD adult screening test to find out more about this condition and determine if it's affecting your daily life. You can also download a form letter from ADHD UK to present to your GP to ask them to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment.

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