ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis?
ADHD services in the UK are at a critical juncture. There is a growing awareness of the disorder, however there are there are a lack of resources and lengthy waiting time.
GPs can relay symptoms and ask questions, however they cannot diagnose ADHD nor refuse the diagnosis of a specialist clinician. This is a decision only a psychiatrist can make.
What is ADHD assessment?
ADHD is a complex disorder, and a precise diagnosis requires a thorough assessment by a qualified specialist. The person evaluating you will take note of your symptoms and ask you questions, then compare them with current guidelines for diagnosis. They also look for other possible explanations of your symptoms, such as a co-occurring mental health condition. Comprehensive evaluations can take several hours and could require more than one appointment with the doctor.
It is crucial to be honest when answering the questions, so that they can accurately evaluate your symptoms. It is important to note that the diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed without looking at your past experiences, especially as a teenager or child. Your specialist will ask questions about your past behaviour and experiences, and also assessing your present symptoms.
You will be asked to fill out questionnaires as well as other tests, like cognitive assessments and rating scales. Bring these documents with you because your doctor will use them in the evaluation. Your doctor may also provide information from your medical record.
Remember that the NHS is not as extensive and may be slow in obtaining an assessment. If you visit your GP and express concern that you might have ADHD, he or she should be able to take it seriously and recommend an assessment.
If your GP finds that you do not fit the criteria for ADHD the doctor will explain why. Most of the time, it is because a different issue, such as anxiety or depression that better explains your symptoms. It is important to know that you are entitled to seek a private examination in case you do not agree with the outcome of your examination.
Dr. Cubbin accepts referrals from GPs through the Right to Choose program, and is able to consult with private patients. This means that you will be able to get an assessment fast and efficiently, avoiding the NHS waiting list. You can discuss treatment options and begin to manage your symptoms so that they don't affect your work or your relationships.
Why do I need to be tested for ADHD?
A diagnosis of ADHD can affect an individual. It can affect how people approach their relationships, work and family. Many adults who seek a diagnosis find it a relief to be able to comprehend why they struggled at school and as an adult. For others the diagnosis can bring on a range of emotions and be a struggle to deal with.
The first step to understanding and managing symptoms is to have an ADHD assessment. The process can be a bit confusing for people who don't know where to begin, especially with the long NHS waiting times and costly private assessments. This guide is meant 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'll also ask whether you suffer from other symptoms, such as anxiety or depression. They will then refer you to a mental health specialist, often a psychiatrist trained 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 online portal dashboard. They must be completed prior to your appointment to ensure that your psychiatrist has time to review them.
A psychiatrist will then conduct a thorough medical and psychiatric interview with you. They will ask you about your childhood as well as your family history and your current symptoms. They may also request to interview additional people like your partner or children. During the interview, the psychiatrist will be looking for signs of ADHD and also any other physical or mental ailments you might have.
The psychiatrist will then make a determination whether or not they believe you have ADHD and what treatment is required. This will include a discussion on psychosocial intervention and medication (if necessary). The doctor will draft a report which will be provided to your GP with the results of your evaluation. They will then recommend a treatment plan, which may be agreed upon jointly by you and your GP.
How can I obtain an ADHD assessment?
Adults who want to address ADHD symptoms might find it frustrating that getting an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take up to two years. There are a variety of private options to cut down on NHS waiting times.
Before you schedule an appointment with a specialist, it's worth familiarising yourself with the traits and signs of adult ADHD so that you are aware of what to expect. You can also record specific examples from your own life to share during the test.
You'll be asked to rate your behaviours in different situations and give examples of how these symptoms have affected your professional, personal or family life. These questionnaires are designed to uncover any potential issues and determine if you suffer from ADHD. The psychiatrist will put together an assessment and outline what you may need to take in the future, including any recommendations for treatment.
A clear diagnosis of ADHD can enhance your health and how you manage relationships and your daily life. It can also enable you to avail a range of interventions and treatments that can ease the symptoms of adult ADHD, such as cognitive therapy for behavioural problems 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 be able to take your concerns seriously, ask if have any evidence to suggest an assessment for diagnosis.
Private psychiatric assessments are generally performed by professionals with vast experience treating people suffering from neurodevelopmental issues like ADHD. They are also experienced with assessing and treating conditions like anxiety or depression.
If you live in England or Scotland, you can receive an ADHD assessment through the NHS using a 'Right to Choose" procedure. To be eligible you must visit your GP and ask them to make a referral to Psych-UK Ltd under 'Right to Choose' for an adult ADHD assessment and treatment plan.
What is assessments for adhd in adults for an ADHD assessment?
If you've been experiencing the symptoms of ADHD or other disorders, it might be time to consult an expert. This will help you get a more accurate diagnosis, which in turn can lead to better treatment and management of your ADHD symptoms.
You can only be diagnosed with ADHD following an extensive medical examination by a qualified healthcare professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. These tests typically involve the complete personal history of the person and observations, as well as feedback from friends and family.
During your appointment the psychiatrist you consult with will talk with you about the difficulties you're experiencing and will ask questions regarding your family and medical 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 a comprehensive ADHD report at the conclusion of your appointment. With your consent Dr. Cubbin will forward this report to your GP to ensure that they are aware of the results of your assessment and any recommendations for treatment.
There are a few people who prefer to pay privately for their ADHD evaluation and treatment. This is a great option if you are not sure if your GP will accept a Shared Care Agreement, or if you do not want to be on the NHS waiting list for an appointment. However, it is important to remember that a private diagnosis does not necessarily mean that you'll be eligible for benefits such as PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance).
If you are considering getting an ADHD assessment, download our adult ADHD screener today and learn more about the condition and find out how it could be impacting your life. You can also download the letter from ADHD UK and present it to your GP and ask to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment.