ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis?
The UK's ADHD services are at a crossroads. There is increased recognition of the condition, but the lack of resources and long waiting times.
GPs can relay symptoms and answer questions, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or deny a diagnosis from an expert clinician. This is a decision that only a psychiatrist can make.
What is an ADHD assessment?
ADHD is a complex disorder that requires a thorough assessment by an experienced specialist. The person evaluating you will listen to your symptoms and ask questions and then compare them with current diagnostic guidelines. They also search for other possible causes for your symptoms, like an underlying mental health. A thorough assessment can take several hours and may require multiple appointments with the specialist.
You must be honest when answering questions so that the doctor can assess your symptoms. It is crucial to remember that a diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed without examining your history, particularly as a teenager or child. Your specialist will ask you questions about your past behavior and experiences, as well as assessing your present symptoms.
You will be asked to fill out questionnaires as well as other tests such as ratings scales or cognitive assessments. It is recommended to bring copies of these documents with you as they will be used by your physician to assist in the assessment process. Your doctor can also provide information from your medical records.
Be aware that the NHS isn't as big and can be slow in obtaining 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 following the Right to Choose pathway.
If your GP finds that you do not fit the criteria for ADHD and they explain the reason. It's often because another condition such as depression or anxiety better explains the symptoms. It is important to know that you are entitled to request a private evaluation if you do not agree with the outcome of your evaluation.
At the Adult ADHD Clinic, Dr Cubbin receives referrals from GPs through the Right to Choose scheme, and she is also able to consult patients privately. This means that you will be able to 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 interfere with your work life or your relationships.
Why should I be tested for ADHD?
A diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on a person. It can impact how people approach their work, relationships and families. Many people who seek a diagnosis will feel relieved to know why they struggled during school and later in life. For others diagnosed, it can bring on a range of emotions and be a challenge to deal with.
Achieving an ADHD assessment is the first step to understanding and managing your symptoms. The process can be a bit confusing for those who don't know where to begin, particularly with the long NHS waiting times and costly private assessments. This guide was created to assist.
Speak to your GP to get an ADHD assessment. Your GP must be attentive to your symptoms and talk to you about them, asking questions about how they affect your life. They will ask whether you are suffering from other symptoms such as depression or anxiety. They can refer you to a specialist in mental health, usually psychiatrists who have expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders.
You will be asked to complete some pre-screening questions prior to your appointment. They can be accessed via your portal's dashboard online and should be completed prior to the appointment so that your psychiatrist can read them in advance of the consultation.
A psychiatrist will then conduct a thorough medical and psychiatric consultation with you. They will inquire about your childhood and family history, and current symptoms. They may also request to interview your spouse or your child. During the interview the psychiatrist will look for indications of ADHD as well as any other physical or psychological issues you may be suffering from.
The psychiatrist will decide if they believe that you suffer from ADHD and what type of treatment is required. This will include a discussion of psychosocial interventions as well as medication (if appropriate). The doctor will write a report that will be provided to your GP with the results of your evaluation. They will then suggest an appropriate treatment plan, which can be agreed jointly between you and your GP.
How can I get an ADHD assessment?
Achieving an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take two or more years, which can be extremely frustrating for adults who wish to address their symptoms. If you're willing to skip the NHS wait time there are a variety of private options.
It is important to be familiar with the symptoms and traits of adult ADHD prior to scheduling an appointment to ensure that you're prepared. It may also be helpful to record examples of these issues in your own life that you might discuss during the assessment.
You will also be asked to rate the severity of your symptoms in a variety of situations, and also to provide examples of how they have affected your professional, personal or familial life. These questionnaires are designed to uncover possible issues and determine if you suffer from ADHD. The psychiatrist will then create a report and discuss what you need to do following that including any treatment recommendations.
A correct diagnosis of ADHD can enhance your health and how you manage your relationships and your life. You can also get access to a variety of treatments and interventions that can help you manage the symptoms of adult ADHD. These include cognitive behavior therapy or medication.
The first step to 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 should take you seriously and inquire whether there is any evidence to support this, and then refer you to a complete diagnosis.
Private psychiatric assessments are generally conducted by experts who have extensive experience in treating people suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. They also have the experience of assessing and treating other conditions like anxiety and depression.
If private adhd assessment for adults live in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland or Northern Ireland, you may get an ADHD assessment on the NHS through a 'Right to Choose' process. To use this option you must visit 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 price for an ADHD assessment?
If you've noticed signs of ADHD, it may be time to speak with an expert. This will allow you to identify your ADHD symptoms more accurately which could lead to better treatment and management of your ADHD symptoms.
You will only be diagnosed with ADHD after a thorough medical evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider like a psychiatrist or psychologist. These evaluations typically include thorough personal histories, observations and feedback from your family and acquaintances.
During your appointment, your consultant psychiatrist may ask you questions about your medical history and family history. You will be asked to complete questionnaires or rating systems that aid your doctor determine the severity of your symptoms, and how they affect your daily activities.
At the conclusion of your appointment At the conclusion of your appointment, Dr. Cubbin will prepare an extensive ADHD assessment report. With your consent Dr. Cubbin will forward this report to your GP so they are aware of the results of your evaluation and any treatment recommendations.
Some people opt to pay privately for the assessment and treatment of ADHD. This can be a good alternative if you're not certain if your GP will accept a Shared Care Agreement, or should you not wish to wait on the NHS waiting list for an appointment. It is important to note that the existence of a private diagnosis does not necessarily mean you will be eligible for benefits like PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).
If you're considering undergoing an ADHD assessment, use our adult ADHD screening test today and find out more about the condition to find out how it could be impacting your life. You can also download a letter from ADHD UK to give to your GP to ask them to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment.