ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis?
The UK's ADHD services are at a crossroads. The condition is becoming recognized, yet resources are limited and waiting times are long.
GPs are able to relay symptoms and answer questions, but cannot diagnose ADHD or refuse the diagnosis of an expert clinician. This is a medical decision that can only be taken by a psychiatrist.
What is ADHD assessment?
ADHD is a complex disorder that requires a thorough examination by a qualified specialist. The examiner will listen to your symptoms and ask you questions and then compare them to current guidelines for diagnosis. They also look for other possible explanations for your symptoms, like a co-occurring mental health condition. A thorough assessment can take several hours and require multiple appointments with the specialist.
You must be honest when answering questions so that your doctor can assess your symptoms. It is important to keep in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed without examining your history, particularly as a child or teenager. Your specialist will ask 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. Bring copies of these documents with you as your specialist will use them in the evaluation. Your doctor can also provide details from your medical records.
Remember that the NHS isn't as big and can be slow to provide an assessment. If you go to your GP with a concern that you may have ADHD They should be aware of it and refer you for an assessment, often using the Right to Choose pathway.
If your GP decides you do not meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis and they give you a reason why. Often, it will be due to another medical disorder, like anxiety or depression is more likely to explain your symptoms. It is important to know that you are entitled to seek a private examination in case you do not agree with the results of your examination.
At the Adult ADHD Clinic, Dr Cubbin takes referrals from GPs under the Right to Choose scheme, and she is also able to consult patients privately. This means that you can be assessed quickly and efficiently, without the NHS waiting list. You can then discuss your treatment options and manage your symptoms to ensure that they do not interfere in your work or relationships.
Why do I require an ADHD assessment?
A diagnosis of ADHD can have a significant impact on an individual. It can affect the way people view their work, relationships and families. Many adults who seek a diagnosis find it a relief to be able to comprehend the reasons they struggled in school and as an adult. For some, a diagnosis can bring on a range of emotions and be a challenge to manage.
Achieving an ADHD assessment is the first step to understanding and managing your symptoms. However, with NHS waiting times being lengthy and private assessments expensive, the process can feel like a maze for those who aren't sure where to begin. This guide is designed to help.
Talk to your GP to get an ADHD assessment. Your GP should be attentive to your symptoms and discuss them with you, asking questions about how they affect your life. They will ask whether you're experiencing any other symptoms like anxiety or depression. They can refer you to specialists in mental health, which is usually a psychiatrist with training in neurodevelopmental disorders.
After you've been referred, you will typically be asked to fill out certain pre-screening questions prior to your appointment. These are accessible via your portal's online dashboard. It is important to complete them prior to your appointment time to ensure that your psychiatrist has enough time to read the questionnaires.
The psychiatrist will conduct an in-depth medical-psychiatric exam with you. They will inquire about your childhood and family history, and your current symptoms. They may also request to interview your partner or your child. During the interview, the psychiatrist will be looking for indicators of ADHD and any other medical or psychological issues you may have.
The psychiatrist will determine if they believe that you have 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 prepare a report that will be sent to your GP outlining the results of your assessment. They will then recommend a treatment plan, which can be agreed jointly between you and your GP.
How can I obtain an ADHD assessment?
Adults who wish to address ADHD symptoms may find it frustrating that getting an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take as long as two years. There are several private options for you to cut down on NHS waiting time.
Before scheduling an appointment with a specialist, it's worthwhile familiarising yourself with the traits and signs of adult ADHD to ensure you know what to expect. You can also note down specific examples from your own life to talk about during the test.
You will be asked to rate the severity of your symptoms in a variety of situations, and provide examples of how they have affected your professional, personal or family life. These tests are designed to uncover any potential issues and determine if you have ADHD. The psychiatrist will write an assessment report and then discuss with you what you may require to do. This could include any treatment recommendations.
If you suffer from ADHD, a clear diagnosis can result in better wellbeing and improve the way you manage your relationships and your life. You can also avail various treatments and interventions that can help you manage the symptoms of adult ADHD. These include cognitive behavior therapy or medication.
To get an ADHD assessment, you should first visit your GP to explain the reason you believe you are suffering from ADHD symptoms. Your GP must be able to take your concerns seriously and inquire if there is any evidence to support this, and refer you to a complete diagnostic evaluation.
Private psychiatric assessments are typically conducted by experts who have extensive experience in working with patients suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. They will also have experience of diagnosing and treating other conditions like anxiety and depression.
If assessment of adult adhd reside in England or Scotland you are eligible for an ADHD assessment through the NHS by utilizing a "Right to Choose" process. To use this option you must see 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 for an ADHD assessment?
If you've noticed signs of ADHD and have been experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it could be time to talk to an expert. This will allow you to get a more accurate diagnose, which can lead to better treatment and management of your ADHD symptoms.
It is important to keep in mind that you can only get diagnosed with ADHD through a comprehensive medical evaluation performed by a skilled healthcare professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists. These assessments typically involve thorough personal histories, observations and feedback from family and friends.
During your appointment your psychiatrist consultant will talk with you about the difficulties you're experiencing and may ask you questions about your family and medical history. You may also be asked to complete questionnaires or rating scales that assist your doctor in assessing the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily functioning.
Dr. Cubbin will provide you with a an extensive ADHD report at the end of your appointment. With your consent, he will send this to your GP to ensure that they are aware of the results of your evaluation and any treatment recommendations.
Some people opt to pay privately for the evaluation and treatment of ADHD. If you're not certain if your GP accepts a Shared Care Agreement or if waiting on the NHS list to schedule an appointment isn't something you'd like to do, this could be a good alternative. It is important to remember that the existence of a private diagnosis does not necessarily mean you will be qualified for benefits such as PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).
If you're considering undergoing an ADHD assessment, take 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 and give this to your GP, asking to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment.