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ADHD Assessment – Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis? ADHD services in the UK are at a critical point. There is an increase in awareness of the condition, but limited resources and extended waiting times. GPs are able to relay symptoms and ask questions, but they are unable to diagnose ADHD or deny the diagnosis of a specialist clinician. This is a medical decision which can only be made by a psychiatrist. What is ADHD assessment? ADHD is a complex disorder that requires a thorough assessment by a seasoned specialist. The examiner listens to your symptoms, asks questions, and analyzes them against current guidelines for diagnosing. They also look for other possible explanations for your symptoms, like an underlying mental health. A thorough evaluation can take a few hours and could require more than one appointment with the doctor. It is vital to be honest when answering the questions to ensure that they are able to accurately evaluate your symptoms. It is important to keep in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed without examining your past experiences, especially as a child or teenager. Your specialist will ask you questions regarding your past experiences and behaviors, as well as assess your current symptoms. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires and other tests, like ratings scales and cognitive assessments. Bring these documents since your doctor will use them to aid in the assessment. Your GP is also able to 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 and are concerned that you might have ADHD The doctor must be aware of this and recommend an assessment. If your GP determines that you do not meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis They will provide you with a reason why. It is often because another condition such as depression or anxiety better explains the 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 evaluation. At the Adult ADHD Clinic, Dr Cubbin takes referrals from GPs through the Right to Choose scheme, and she's also willing to consult patients privately. This means you can access an assessment quickly and efficiently, without having to wait on the NHS waiting list. You can discuss treatment options and begin to manage your symptoms, so that they don't affect your work or relationships. Why do I need to be evaluated for ADHD? A diagnosis of ADHD can have a significant impact on an individual. It can alter how people approach work or relationships, as well as family life. Many adults who seek out a diagnosis find it a relief to understand why they struggled in school and as an adult. For some, a diagnosis can trigger a range emotions and be difficult to handle. The process of obtaining an ADHD assessment is the first step to understanding and managing your symptoms. However, with 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 designed to help. 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 inquire if you have other symptoms, like anxiety or depression. They can refer you to specialists in mental health, typically a psychiatrist with experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. If you've been referred, you'll usually be asked to complete some pre-screening questionnaires before your appointment. These can be accessed through your online portal dashboard and must be completed prior to the appointment, so your doctor has time to review them prior to the appointment. The psychiatrist will conduct an in-depth medical-psychiatric examination with you. They will inquire about your childhood and family history, and current symptoms. They may also want to speak with your partner or child. During the interview the psychiatrist will be looking for signs of ADHD and also any other physical or mental issues you may be suffering from. The psychiatrist will then decide whether or not they believe that you have ADHD and what type of treatment is required. This will include discussion of psychosocial interventions as well as medication (if appropriate). The clinician will write a report that will be provided to your GP detailing the findings of your evaluation. The clinician will then recommend the best treatment plan, which you and your GP can agree on. How do I get an ADHD assessment? Adults who want to address ADHD symptoms may find it frustrating that getting an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take up to two years. There are several private options for you to stay clear of the NHS waiting times. Before you schedule an appointment with an expert, it's worth getting familiar with the characteristics and signs of adult ADHD so that you are aware of what to expect. You can also write down 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 impacted your personal, professional or family life. These questionnaires are meant to uncover any potential issues and determine if you're suffering from ADHD. The psychiatrist will create an assessment and outline what you may need to do following that, including any recommendations for treatment. A clear diagnosis of ADHD can help improve your overall health and the way you manage relationships and your life. You can also avail many treatments and interventions to manage the symptoms of adult ADHD. These include cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. The first step to getting an ADHD assessment is to go to your GP and explain the reason you think you have symptoms of ADHD. Your GP must be able to take your concerns seriously and inquire if there is any evidence to support this, and refer you for a full diagnostic evaluation. Private psychiatric evaluations are typically conducted by experts who have years of experience working with patients suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. They are also familiar with assessing and treating issues such as anxiety or depression. If you reside in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland and you are a resident of Northern Ireland, you can obtain an ADHD assessment through the NHS through a 'Right to Choose' process. You can make use of this option by asking your GP to refer you to Psych-UK Ltd for an adult ADHD assessment and treatment plan under the 'Right to Choose.' What is the cost for an ADHD assessment? If you've been experiencing symptoms of ADHD for a while now and you are still struggling, it could be time to consider getting a GP referral to see an expert in the field. This will enable you to get an accurate diagnosis, which can help you get better treatment and treatment of your ADHD symptoms. You will only be diagnosed with ADHD after an extensive medical examination by a licensed healthcare professional like psychologist or psychiatrist. linked site include an extensive personal history, observation and feedback from your family and acquaintances. During your consultation the psychiatrist you consult with will ask you questions about your medical and family history. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires or rating scales to assist your doctor in assessing the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. At the end of your appointment At the conclusion of your appointment, Dr Cubbin will prepare a comprehensive ADHD assessment report. With your consent Dr. Cubbin will forward this to your GP so that they are aware of the findings of your assessment and any recommendations for treatment. There are some who opt to pay privately for their ADHD evaluation and treatment. This can be a good option if you're not certain whether your GP will accept a Shared Care Agreement, or should you not wish to be on the NHS waiting list for an appointment. It is important to remember that a private diagnoses does not mean you will automatically qualify for benefits like PIP (formerly Disability Living Allowance). If you are considering getting an ADHD assessment, take our adult ADHD screener today and learn more about the condition to determine 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.