ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis? The UK's ADHD services are at a critical point. The condition is becoming more well-known, however the resources are scarce and waiting times are long. GPs can relay symptoms and answer questions, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or refuse a diagnosis from a specialist clinician. This is a medical decision which can only be taken by a psychiatrist. What is ADHD assessment? ADHD is a complex disorder that requires a thorough evaluation by a seasoned specialist. The evaluator will examine your symptoms and ask you questions and then compare them to current guidelines for diagnosing. They also search at other possible causes of your symptoms, such as an underlying mental health. A thorough examination can take a long time and may require multiple visits with a 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 unless your history, especially when you were a teenager or child is analyzed. Your doctor will ask you questions about your past behavior and experiences, and also looking at your present symptoms. You will be required to fill out questionnaires and other tests, such as ratings scales and cognitive assessments. It is helpful to bring a copy of these with you because they will be used by your physician to help in the assessment process. Your doctor may also provide information from your medical record. Remember that the NHS is limited and can be slow in obtaining an assessment. If you go to your GP in the hope that you may have ADHD, they must be attentive and refer you to an assessment, often following the Right to Choose pathway. If your GP decides that you do not fit the criteria for ADHD the doctor will explain why. It's often because another condition such as depression or anxiety better explains the symptoms. It is important to remember that you can request a private assessment if you aren't satisfied with the results of your evaluation. Dr. Cubbin accepts referrals from GPs through the Right to Choose program, and is able to consult with private patients. You can get an assessment quickly efficiently, effectively and without waiting on the NHS. You can then discuss treatment options and manage your symptoms so that they don't interfere in your work or relationships. Why do I need to be evaluated for ADHD? A diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on an individual. It can change how people approach their work or relationships, as well as family life. Many adults who seek a diagnosis feel relieved to understand the reasons they struggled in school and as an adult. For others, a diagnosis can bring up an array of emotions and can be a challenge to manage. The first step in understanding and managing symptoms is to obtain an ADHD assessment. However the NHS waiting times being long and private assessments expensive the process can seem like a maze for those who don't know what to do. This guide is intended to assist. The first step to getting an ADHD assessment is to talk to your GP. Your GP will discuss your symptoms with you and ask questions about the impact they have on your life. They will also ask whether you suffer from other symptoms, for instance depression or anxiety. They may refer you to an expert in mental health, typically psychiatrists who have experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. After you've been referred to a psychiatrist, you will usually be asked to complete some pre-screening forms prior to your appointment. They can be accessed via your online portal dashboard and must be completed prior to the appointment time, so that your psychiatrist 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 the current symptoms. https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/private-adult-adhd-assessments/ may also ask you to interview additional people like your spouse or children. During the consultation, the psychiatrist will look for indications of ADHD and any other physical or psychological issues you may be suffering from. The psychiatrist will determine whether they believe you have ADHD and what kind of treatment is required. This will include a discussion of medication and psychosocial intervention (if necessary). The clinician will prepare a report that will be provided to your GP outlining the results of your examination. They will then recommend an appropriate treatment plan, which can be negotiated between you and your GP. How do I get an ADHD assessment? Getting an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take up to two years, which can be very frustrating for those who are adults and want to treat their symptoms. If you're looking to bypass the NHS wait times there are plenty of private options. Before you schedule an appointment with an expert, it's worth familiarising yourself with the traits and symptoms of adult ADHD so that you know what to expect. You can also note down specific examples from your personal life to share 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've affected your professional, personal or family life. These questionnaires are designed to pinpoint any issues and determine if you're suffering from ADHD. The psychiatrist will then create an evaluation and explain what you may need to do next, including any treatment recommendations. A correct diagnosis of ADHD can help improve your overall health and the way you manage relationships and your life. It also allows you to access a variety of interventions and treatments to help alleviate the symptoms of adult ADHD such as cognitive therapy for behavioural problems or medication. The first step to getting an ADHD assessment is to go to your GP and explain why you think you may be suffering from symptoms of ADHD. Your GP must be able to take your concerns seriously and ask if there is any evidence to support this, and refer you to a complete diagnostic evaluation. Private psychiatric evaluations are usually performed by specialists who have a wealth of experience working with patients suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. They will also be familiar with diagnosing and treating disorders like anxiety or depression. If you reside in England or Scotland you are eligible for an ADHD assessment through the NHS by utilizing a "Right to Choose" process. To avail 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 been struggling with symptoms of ADHD for a while now, then it might 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 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 include a detailed personal history, observations, and feedback from your family and acquaintances. During your visit, your consultant psychiatrist might ask you questions regarding your medical history and family history. You will be asked to complete questionnaires or rating systems that will help your doctor determine the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily activities. At the conclusion of your appointment, Dr Cubbin will write you an extensive ADHD assessment report. Dr. Cubbin will forward the report on your ADHD assessment to your GP with your permission. Some people opt to pay privately for treatment and assessment of ADHD. If you're not certain if 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 option. It is important to note that a private diagnosis does not automatically mean that you will be qualified for benefits such as PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance). If you're thinking of getting an ADHD assessment, take our adult ADHD screener today to learn more about the condition to find out whether it is affecting your life. You can also download a form letter from ADHD UK to hand to your GP asking them to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment.