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 the lack of resources and long waiting time.
GPs can communicate symptoms and answer questions, but they are unable to diagnose ADHD or refuse a diagnosis from an expert clinician. This is a clinical decision that is taken by a psychiatrist.
What is an ADHD assessment?
ADHD is a complex disorder and accurate diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a seasoned specialist. The evaluator is able to listen to your symptoms, asks you questions and analyzes them against current guidelines for diagnosis. They also search for other possible causes for your symptoms, like the co-occurring mental health. Comprehensive evaluations can take several hours and could require more than one appointment with the specialist.
It is essential that you are honest when answering the questions, to ensure that they are able to accurately evaluate your symptoms. It is important to note that a diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed without examining your history, particularly as a child or teenager. Your specialist will ask you questions about your past experiences and behaviors and will also evaluate your current symptoms.
You will be asked to complete questionnaires and other tests, including ratings scales and cognitive assessments. Bring these documents with you as your specialist will use them to aid in the assessment. Your doctor can also provide details from your medical record.
Be aware that the NHS isn't as big and can be slow in getting an assessment. If you visit your GP in the hope 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 determines that you do not fit the criteria for ADHD and they explain the reason. It is usually due to another medical issue, such as anxiety or depression that better explains your symptoms. However, it is important to remember that you are entitled to seek a private assessment in case you do not agree with the outcome 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 see patients privately. You can have an evaluation quickly, efficiently and without waiting for the NHS. You can then discuss your treatment options and manage your symptoms so that they do not hinder in your relationships or work.
Why should I be assessed for ADHD?
A diagnosis of ADHD can have a significant impact on a person. It can impact how people approach their family, work, and relationships. Many adults who seek diagnosis find it a relief to finally understand the reasons they struggled in school and later as an adult. For some, a diagnosis can trigger a variety of emotions and be a struggle to handle.
Getting an ADHD assessment is the first step in understanding and addressing your symptoms. However, with NHS waiting times being lengthy and private assessments expensive the process can seem like a maze for those who aren't sure where to begin. This guide is intended to assist.
The first step in getting an ADHD assessment is to speak to your GP. Your GP should consider your symptoms seriously and discuss them with you and ask questions about how they impact your life. They will ask whether you are suffering from other symptoms like anxiety or depression. They will then refer you to a mental health specialist typically a psychiatrist trained in neurodevelopmental disorders.
You will be asked to complete some pre-screening questions before your appointment. These can be accessed via your portal's online dashboard. It is important to complete them prior to your appointment to ensure that your psychiatrist has enough time to read them.
A psychiatrist will then conduct a detailed medical and psychiatric consultation with you. They will inquire about your family history, childhood and current symptoms. They may also request to interview other people like your spouse or children. During the interview, your psychiatrist will be looking for indicators of ADHD and any other medical or psychological ailments you suffer from.
The psychiatrist will decide if they believe that you have ADHD, and what type treatment is needed. This will include a discussion on medication and psychosocial intervention (if necessary). The clinician will then prepare a report to forward to your GP detailing the results of your examination. assessment adult adhd will then recommend an appropriate treatment plan, which you and your GP can agree on.
How can I get an ADHD assessment?
Adults who wish to address ADHD symptoms can be frustrated that getting an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take up to two years. If you're willing to bypass the NHS waiting times, there are a number of private options.
It's important to familiarise yourself with the symptoms and characteristics of adult ADHD prior to scheduling an appointment so that you're prepared. It can also help to note examples of these issues in your personal life that you could discuss at the time of the assessment.
You'll also be asked to rate your behavior in different situations and give examples of how these issues have impacted your professional, personal or family life. These questionnaires are designed to uncover potential issues and determine whether or not you have ADHD. The psychiatrist will write a report, and then discuss with you what you might need to do. This could include any treatment recommendations.
If you are suffering from ADHD, a correct diagnosis can help improve your health and better how you manage your relationships and life. You can also avail various treatments and interventions to help manage the symptoms of adult ADHD. These include cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.
The first step in getting an ADHD assessment is to go to your GP and explain the reason you think you may be suffering from symptoms of ADHD. Your GP should be able to take your concerns seriously, ask if you have any evidence to refer you for an assessment of diagnostics.
Private psychiatric evaluations are typically performed by professionals with vast experience working with people with neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. They will also have experience of assessing and treating other conditions such as depression and anxiety.
If you live in England or Scotland you are eligible for an ADHD assessment through the NHS by utilizing a "Right to Choose" procedure. To avail adhd assessments for adults 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 cost for an ADHD assessment?
If you've been struggling with symptoms of ADHD for a while now and are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it may be time to think about a GP appointment with an expert in the field. This will allow you to be more precise in diagnosing which could lead to better treatment and management of your ADHD symptoms.
You can only be diagnosed with ADHD following an extensive medical examination by a licensed healthcare professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist. These assessments typically involve thorough personal histories, observations and feedback from your family and friends.
During your appointment your psychiatrist consultant will talk to you about the difficulties you're experiencing and will ask questions about your family history and medical history. You'll also be asked to complete questionnaires or rating scales to assist your doctor in assessing the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
Dr. Cubbin will give you a an extensive ADHD report at the conclusion of your appointment. Dr. Cubbin will forward the report on your ADHD assessment to your GP with your permission.
Some people prefer to pay privately for evaluation and treatment of ADHD. If you're not certain whether your GP accepts the Shared Care Agreement or if waiting on the NHS list to schedule an appointment isn't something you want to do, this could be a great alternative. It is important to note that a private diagnoses does not mean you will automatically be eligible for benefits such as PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).
If you're thinking of getting an ADHD assessment, take our adult ADHD screening test today and find out more about the condition to determine if it might be affecting your life. You can also download a letter from ADHD UK and hand it to your GP, asking to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment.