ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis?
ADHD services in the UK are at a critical point. There is a growing awareness of the condition but limited resources and extended waiting time.
GPs can communicate symptoms and answer questions, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or deny an assessment from an expert clinician. This is a decision that only a psychiatrist is able to make.
What is ADHD assessment?
ADHD is a complicated disorder and accurate diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified specialist. The evaluator will examine your symptoms and ask you questions and then compare them with current diagnostic guidelines. They also look for other possible causes for your symptoms, such as an underlying mental health. A thorough evaluation can take a few hours and may require more than one appointment with the specialist.
It is vital to be honest when answering the questions to ensure that they are able to accurately assess your symptoms. It is essential to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD is not confirmed until your past history, particularly as a child or teen is taken into consideration. Your specialist will ask you questions about your previous experiences and behaviour, as well as assess your current symptoms.
You will be asked for questionnaires and other tests, such as cognitive assessments or rating scales. It is important to carry copies of these documents with you since they will be used by your physician to assist in the assessment process. Your GP 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 visit your GP and you express concern that you may have ADHD The doctor should take this seriously and suggest an assessment.
If your GP determines that you don't meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis, they will give you the reason. Often, it will be because another disorder, like anxiety or depression, better explains your symptoms. However, it is important to remember that you have the right to seek a private assessment in case you do not agree with the conclusions of your evaluation.
Dr. Cubbin accepts referrals from doctors through the Right to Choose program, and is willing to see private patients. You can have an assessment fast efficiently, effectively and without waiting on the NHS. You can then discuss treatment options and begin to manage your symptoms, to ensure they don't affect your work or relationships.
Why do I require an ADHD assessment?
A diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on the person. It can alter the way people view work as well as relationships and family life. Many people who seek an answer will find it is a relief to know the reasons they struggled in school and in adulthood. However, for others diagnosed with a condition, it can trigger many emotions and can be a challenge to deal 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 long and private assessments costing a lot the process can seem like a maze for those who don't know what to do. This guide is designed to assist.
The first step to getting an ADHD assessment is to speak to your GP. Your GP will discuss your symptoms with you and ask questions about the impact they have on your life. They will ask whether you are suffering from other symptoms, such as depression or anxiety. They can then refer you to a mental health specialist typically a psychiatrist with training in neurodevelopmental disorders.
If you've been referred, you will usually be asked to complete some pre-screening questionnaires before your appointment. These are accessible through your portal's dashboard online and must be completed prior to the appointment, so your doctor has time to go through them prior to the appointment.
The psychiatrist will conduct a thorough medical-psychiatric exam together with you. They will ask you about your childhood, family history and current symptoms. They may also ask to interview your spouse or your child. During the interview the psychiatrist will look for signs of ADHD and also any other physical or psychological conditions you may have.
The psychiatrist will determine if they believe that you have ADHD and what kind of treatment is required. This will include a discussion on psychosocial intervention and medication (if applicable). The doctor will draft a report which will be provided to your GP outlining the results of your examination. The clinician will then recommend the best treatment plan that you and your GP can agree upon.
How do I get an ADHD assessment?
Adults who wish to address ADHD symptoms can find it frustrating that getting an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take as long as two years. If you're ready to cut down on the NHS wait times there are a variety of private options available.
Before you schedule an appointment with a specialist, it's worth knowing the signs and symptoms of adult ADHD to ensure you know what to expect. IamPsychiatry can also help to record instances of these issues in your own life, which you can discuss at the time of the assessment.
You will also be asked to assess the severity of your symptoms in a variety of situations, and provide examples on how they have affected your professional, personal or family life. These questionnaires are meant to identify any possible issues and determine if you suffer from ADHD. The psychiatrist will create a report, and will discuss with you what you may require to do. This could include any treatment suggestions.
A clear diagnosis of ADHD can enhance your health and the way you manage relationships and your daily life. You can also get access to a variety of treatments and interventions to help manage the symptoms of adult ADHD. These include cognitive behavior therapy or medication.
The first step towards getting an ADHD assessment is to go to your GP and explain why you think you have symptoms of ADHD. Your GP should take you seriously and ask whether there is any evidence to support this, and refer you for a full diagnosis.
Private psychiatric assessments are typically performed by professionals with extensive experience in working with people with neurodevelopmental issues like ADHD. They will also be experienced of assessing and treating other conditions such as depression and anxiety.
If you live in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland, then you can obtain an ADHD assessment on the NHS through a 'Right To Choose' process. You can use this option by asking your GP to recommend you to Psych-UK Ltd for an adult ADHD assessment and treatment plan as part of the 'Right to Choose.'
What is the cost of an ADHD assessment?
If you've been experiencing symptoms of ADHD or other disorders, it might be time to talk to an expert. This will allow you to receive a more accurate diagnosis, which could help you get better treatment and management of your ADHD symptoms.
You will only be diagnosed with ADHD after an exhaustive medical assessment by a qualified healthcare provider like a psychiatrist or psychologist. These assessments usually involve an extensive personal history and observations, along with feedback from family and friends.
During your visit the psychiatrist you consult with may ask you questions about your medical history and family history. You will also be asked to complete questionnaires or rating scales to help your doctor assess the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily functioning.
Dr. Cubbin will provide you with a an extensive ADHD report at the conclusion of your appointment. With your consent the doctor will then send this to your GP to ensure they are aware of the results of your assessment and any treatment recommendations.
There are some people who prefer to pay privately for their ADHD assessment and treatment. If you're unsure whether your GP accepts a Shared Care Agreement or if waiting on the NHS list to make an appointment is not something you want to do, this might be a great alternative. It is important to note that having a private diagnosis doesn't necessarily mean that you'll be eligible for benefits such as PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).
Use our ADHD adult screening test to find out more about this condition and determine if it is affecting your daily life. You can also download a form letter from ADHD UK to hand to your GP to ask them to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment.