ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis?
The UK's ADHD services are at a critical point. The condition is getting more widely recognized, but the resources are scarce and waiting times are lengthy.
GPs can communicate symptoms and answer questions, but they are unable to diagnose ADHD or refuse a diagnosis from a specialist clinician. This is a clinical decision that can only be made by a psychiatrist.
What is an ADHD assessment?
ADHD is a complex disorder and accurate diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified specialist. The evaluator will listen to your symptoms and ask you questions and then compare them to current guidelines for diagnosing. They will also be looking for possible explanations for your symptoms, such as co-occurring mental health issues. Comprehensive evaluations can take several hours and could require more than one appointment with the doctor.
It is essential to be honest when answering the questions to ensure that they are able to accurately evaluate your symptoms. It is important to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed without examining your history, particularly when you were a teenager or a child. Your doctor will ask questions about your past behavior and experiences, and also looking at your present symptoms.
You will be asked to complete questionnaires as well as other tests, like ratings scales and cognitive assessments. Bring copies of these documents to the clinic since your doctor will use them to aid in the evaluation. Your GP can also provide information from your medical record.
Be aware that the NHS isn't as big and can be slow in obtaining an assessment. If you visit your GP and are concerned that you might be suffering from ADHD the doctor should be able to take it seriously and recommend an assessment.
If your GP determines that you don't meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis, they will give you a reason why. It's usually because a different disorder, such as anxiety or depression is more able to explain the symptoms. It is important to keep in mind that you can request a private evaluation if you're not satisfied with the results of your examination.
At the Adult ADHD Clinic, Dr Cubbin takes referrals from GPs via the Right to Choose scheme, and she is also able to consult patients privately. This means you can get an assessment fast and efficiently, avoiding the NHS waiting list. You can then discuss treatment options and manage your symptoms so that they do not hinder in your relationships or work.
Why do I require an ADHD assessment?
A diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound effect on an individual. It can change how people approach work or relationships, as well as family life. Many adults who seek diagnosis find it a relief to be able to comprehend why they struggled at school and as an adult. For others the diagnosis can trigger a range emotions and be a struggle to handle.
Achieving 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 periods and expensive private assessments. This guide was created to assist.
Talk with your GP to get an ADHD assessment. 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 professional, often a psychiatrist who is trained in neurodevelopmental disorders.
If you've been referred, you will usually be asked to complete some pre-screening questionnaires before your appointment. They can be accessed through your portal's dashboard. It is important to complete them prior to your appointment time to ensure that your psychiatrist has enough time to go through them.
A psychiatrist will then conduct a detailed medical and psychiatric interview with you. They will inquire about your childhood, family history and the current symptoms. They might also ask to interview additional people like your partner or children. During the interview, the psychiatrist will be looking for signs of ADHD and any other medical or psychological ailments you suffer from.
The psychiatrist will decide whether they believe you have ADHD and what type of treatment is needed. This will include a discussion on psychosocial interventions and medications (if applicable). The doctor will then write a report to send back to your GP detailing the results of your assessment. The doctor will then suggest a plan of treatment, which you and your GP can agree on.
How can I get an ADHD assessment?
Adults who want to address ADHD symptoms may be frustrated by the fact that obtaining an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take up to two years. If you're willing to skip the NHS wait time there are a variety of private options to choose from.
It's important to familiarise yourself with the signs and characteristics of adult ADHD prior to making an appointment to ensure you're prepared. You can also note down specific examples from your personal life to discuss during the examination.
You'll also be asked to rate your behaviours in different situations and give examples of how these issues have impacted your personal, professional or family life. assessment for adhd in adults are meant to pinpoint any issues and determine if you suffer from ADHD. The psychiatrist will prepare a report, and discuss with you what you may need to do. This could include any treatment recommendations.
If you suffer from ADHD, a correct diagnosis can result in better well-being and help you manage your relationships and your life. It can also enable you to avail a range of treatments and interventions to help alleviate the symptoms of adult ADHD like cognitive behavioural therapy or medication.
The first step to getting an ADHD assessment is to go to your GP and explain why you believe you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. Your GP should be able take you seriously, and ask if you have any evidence to recommend an assessment of diagnostics.
Private psychiatric assessments are typically carried out by specialists with extensive experience in working with patients suffering from neurodevelopmental issues like ADHD. They also have the experience of assessing and treating other conditions like anxiety and depression.
If you live in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland, then you can receive an ADHD assessment on the NHS through a 'Right to Choose' procedure. To avail this option, you need to see your GP and request a referral to Psych-UK Ltd under 'Right to Choose for an adult ADHD assessment and treatment plan.
What is the cost of an ADHD assessment?
If you've noticed signs of ADHD, it may be time to talk to an expert. This will help you get an accurate diagnosis which could lead to better treatment and management of your ADHD symptoms.
It is only possible to be diagnosed with ADHD following a thorough medical evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider such as psychologist or psychiatrist. These tests typically include a an extensive personal history, observation and feedback from your family and acquaintances.
During your appointment your psychiatrist consultant will discuss with you the difficulties you're experiencing and will ask questions about your family and medical history. You'll be asked to fill out questionnaires or rating scales to aid your doctor in assessing the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily functioning.
At the conclusion of your consultation, Dr. Cubbin will write you a comprehensive ADHD assessment report. If you give him permission the doctor will then send the report to your GP to ensure they are aware of the results of your assessment and any recommendations for treatment.
There are some people who opt to pay privately for their ADHD evaluation and treatment. If you're not sure whether your GP accepts the Shared Care Agreement or if waiting on the NHS list for an appointment isn't something you'd like to do, this can be a great alternative. It is important to remember that having a private diagnosis doesn't automatically mean that you will be eligible for benefits like PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).
If you are considering getting an ADHD assessment, download our adult ADHD screener today and learn 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 give to your GP to ask them to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment.