ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis?
The UK's ADHD services are at a crucial point. There is a growing awareness of the condition but the lack of resources and long waiting times.
GPs can relay symptoms and ask questions, however they cannot diagnose ADHD nor refuse a diagnosis by an expert clinician. This is a medical decision which can only be taken by a psychiatrist.
What is an ADHD assessment?
ADHD is who can diagnose adhd in adults that requires a thorough examination by a qualified specialist. The examiner will listen to your symptoms and ask questions and then compare them to current diagnostic guidelines. They also search at other possible causes of your symptoms, like the co-occurring mental health. A thorough evaluation can take a long time and may require multiple appointments 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 crucial to remember that a diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed without examining your past experiences, especially as a child or teenager. Your doctor will ask you questions about your past behaviour and experiences, as well as the current symptoms.
You will be asked to fill out questionnaires and other tests, such as ratings scales or cognitive assessments. Bring copies of these documents to the clinic because your doctor will use them in the assessment. Your GP will also be able to provide information from your medical records.
Remember that the NHS isn't as big and can be slow in obtaining an assessment. If you visit your GP in the hope that you might have ADHD, they should be aware of it and refer you for an assessment, usually using the Right to Choose pathway.
If your GP determines that you don't meet the criteria for ADHD the doctor will explain the reason. Often, it will be because a different disorder, like anxiety or depression is more likely to explain your symptoms. It is important to remember 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 receives referrals from GPs under the Right to Choose scheme, and she is also able to consult patients privately. This means that you will be able to access an assessment quickly and efficiently, without the NHS waiting list. You can discuss treatment options and begin to manage your symptoms, to ensure they don't interfere with your work life or your relationships.
Why should I be tested for ADHD?
A diagnosis of ADHD could affect the person. It can affect how people approach their family, work, and relationships. Many adults seeking a diagnosis find it is a relief to comprehend why they struggled at school and into adulthood. However, for some, a diagnosis can bring up a range of emotions and can be difficult to cope with.
The process of obtaining an ADHD assessment is the first step to understanding and managing your symptoms. However it can be a daunting task, especially with NHS waiting times being lengthy 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.
Talk with your GP to obtain an ADHD assessment. Your GP will discuss your symptoms with you and ask questions about their impact on your life. They'll also inquire whether you are suffering from other symptoms, like anxiety or depression. They can refer you to a specialist in mental health, usually a psychiatrist with experience in neurodevelopmental disorders.
You will be asked to complete some pre-screening questionnaires prior to your appointment. These are accessible through your portal's online dashboard. They should be completed prior to the appointment time, so that your psychiatrist has time to review them prior to the appointment.
A psychiatrist will then conduct a detailed medical and psychiatric interview with you. They will inquire about your childhood, family history and your current symptoms. They may also ask you to interview additional people, such as your partner or children. During the interview the psychiatrist will look for indications of ADHD as well as any other physical or psychological conditions you may have.
The psychiatrist will decide if they believe that you suffer from ADHD, and what type treatment is needed. This will include a discussion of psychosocial interventions and medication (if appropriate). The clinician will then prepare a report to return to your GP, outlining the outcome of your evaluation. They will then suggest the treatment plan that may be agreed upon jointly by you and your GP.
How do I get an ADHD assessment?
Achieving an ADHD assessment on the NHS could take two or more years, which can be very frustrating for adults who want to treat their symptoms. If you're willing to skip the NHS waiting times there are a variety of private options.
It is essential to become familiar with the symptoms and traits of adult ADHD prior to making an appointment to ensure that you are prepared. It may also be helpful to record instances of these issues in your personal life that you might discuss at the assessment.
You will also be asked to assess the severity of your symptoms in a variety of situations, and to give examples of how they've affected your personal, professional or family life. These questionnaires are designed to identify any possible issues and determine if you suffer from ADHD. The psychiatrist will put together an evaluation and explain what you might need to do following that including any treatment recommendations.
If you have ADHD, a correct diagnosis can result in better wellbeing and improve the way you manage your relationships and life. It can also allow you to access a variety of interventions and treatments that can ease the symptoms of adult ADHD like cognitive therapy for behavioural problems or medication.
The first step to getting an ADHD assessment is to visit your GP and explain the reason you believe you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. Your GP must take you seriously and inquire whether there is any evidence of this, and if they can refer you to a complete diagnosis.
Private psychiatric assessments are typically carried out by specialists with extensive experience in working with people with neurodevelopmental issues like ADHD. They are also familiar with diagnosing and treating disorders like anxiety or depression.
If you reside in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland and you are a resident of Northern Ireland, you can obtain an ADHD assessment on the NHS through a 'Right to Choose' process. To avail this option, you need to see your GP and ask them to make 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 noticed signs of ADHD and have been experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it could be time to consult an expert. This will help you be more precise in diagnosing, which can lead to better management and treatment of your ADHD symptoms.
It is only possible to be diagnosed with ADHD after an exhaustive medical assessment by a qualified healthcare provider such as psychologist or psychiatrist. These evaluations typically include 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 regarding your family and medical history. You will be asked to complete questionnaires or rating systems that help your doctor assess the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
Dr Cubbin will give you a complete ADHD report at the end of your appointment. Dr Cubbin will send the report on your ADHD assessment to your GP with your permission.
There are some people who prefer to pay privately for their ADHD evaluation and treatment. This can be a good option if you are not certain whether your GP will accept an agreement called a Shared Care Agreement, or in the event that you don't want to be on the NHS waiting list to get an appointment. It is important to remember that the existence of a private diagnosis does not automatically mean that you will be eligible for benefits like PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).
Take our ADHD adult screening test to find out more about this condition and if it's affecting your everyday life. You can also download a form letter from ADHD UK to hand to your GP asking for referral to an NHS ADHD assessment.