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ADHD Assessment - Is it Time For Adults to Get a Diagnosis?

ADHD services in the UK are at a critical juncture. There is increased recognition of the disorder, however there are the lack of resources and long waiting time.

GPs can relay symptoms and ask questions, but they are not able to diagnose ADHD or deny the diagnosis of an expert clinician. This is a clinical decision which can only be made by a psychiatrist.

What is an ADHD assessment?

ADHD is a complex disorder and accurate diagnosis requires a thorough examination by a seasoned specialist. The person evaluating you will examine your symptoms and ask questions and then compare them to current guidelines for diagnosing. They will also be looking for possible explanations for your symptoms, such as an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring. A thorough evaluation can take a long time and may require multiple appointments with a specialist.

You must be honest when answering questions so that the doctor can accurately assess your symptoms. It is crucial to remember that a diagnosis of ADHD cannot be confirmed unless your history, especially as a child or teen, is considered. Your doctor will ask questions about your past behaviour and experiences, and also assessing your current symptoms.

You will be asked to fill out questionnaires as well as other tests such as rating scales or cognitive assessments. Bring copies of these documents with you as your specialist will use them to aid in the evaluation. Your doctor may also provide information from your medical record.

Be aware that the NHS isn't as big and can be slow to provide an assessment. If you go to your GP and express concern that you may have ADHD the doctor should take this seriously and recommend an assessment.

If your GP decides that you do not fit the criteria for ADHD and they explain why. Most of the time, it is because a different condition, such as depression or anxiety that better explains your symptoms. It is important to note that you have the right to request a private evaluation in the event that you are not satisfied with the conclusions of your examination.

At the Adult ADHD Clinic, Dr Cubbin accepts referrals from GPs through the Right to Choose scheme, and she is also able to see patients privately. You can get an evaluation quickly efficiently, effectively and without the NHS. You can discuss treatment options and begin to manage your symptoms, so they do not interfere with your work life or relationships.

Why do I need to be evaluated for ADHD?

A diagnosis of ADHD can affect an individual. It can alter how people approach their work, relationships and families. Many adults who seek an answer will feel relieved to comprehend the reasons they struggled in school and into adulthood. For some, a diagnosis can trigger a variety of emotions and be a challenge to deal with.


Achieving an ADHD assessment is the first step towards understanding and managing your symptoms. The process can be a bit confusing for people who don't know where to begin, especially due to the lengthy NHS waiting periods and expensive private assessments. adhd assessment for adults near me www.iampsychiatry.uk was created to assist.

Speak to your GP to obtain an ADHD assessment. Your GP should consider your symptoms seriously and discuss them with you asking questions about how they affect your life. They will also ask whether you suffer from other symptoms, such as anxiety or depression. They will then refer you to a mental health professional usually a psychiatrist trained in neurodevelopmental disorders.

You will be asked to complete some pre-screening questionnaires prior to your appointment. They can be accessed via your portal's dashboard online and should be completed prior to the appointment time, so that your psychiatrist has time to read them in advance of the consultation.

A psychiatrist will then conduct a thorough medical and psychiatric examination with you. They will ask you about your family history, childhood and your current symptoms. They may also request to interview additional people, such as your partner or children. During the consultation, the psychiatrist will look for indications of ADHD and any other physical or mental conditions you may have.

The psychiatrist will decide whether they believe you suffer from ADHD and what kind of treatment is needed. This will include a discussion on psychosocial interventions and medications (if applicable). The clinician will write a report that will be sent to your GP outlining the results of your assessment. The clinician will then recommend an appropriate treatment plan that you and your GP can agree on.

How can I obtain an ADHD assessment?

Adults who want to address ADHD symptoms may be frustrated that getting an ADHD assessment through the NHS can take as long as two years. There are several private options if you want 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 to ensure you know what to expect. You can also record specific examples from your personal life to share during the assessment.

You will also be asked to rate the severity of your symptoms in a variety of situations, and provide examples on how they have affected your personal, professional or family life. These tests are designed to uncover any potential issues and determine if you have ADHD. The psychiatrist will create an assessment report and then discuss with you what you might need to take care of. This could include any treatment recommendations.

A proper diagnosis of ADHD can enhance your health and the way you manage relationships and your daily life. It can also enable you to access a range of interventions and treatments that can ease the symptoms of adult ADHD like cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders or medication.

To receive an ADHD assessment, you must first visit your GP to explain why you believe you are suffering from ADHD symptoms. Your GP should be able to take you seriously, ask if you have any evidence to recommend a diagnostic assessment.

Private psychiatric examinations are typically conducted by professionals who have extensive experience working with individuals suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD. They are also familiar with diagnosing and treating disorders such as anxiety or depression.

If you reside in England or Scotland you are eligible for an ADHD assessment through the NHS through a 'Right To Choose" procedure. 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 of an ADHD assessment?

If you have been experiencing symptoms of ADHD for some time and you are still struggling, it could be time to think about getting a GP recommendation to consult an expert in the field. This will allow you to be more precise in diagnosing which could lead to better management and treatment of your ADHD symptoms.

You will only be diagnosed with ADHD following a thorough medical evaluation by a licensed healthcare professional like a psychiatrist or psychologist. These evaluations typically include detailed personal history, observations and feedback from your family and acquaintances.

During your appointment, your consultant psychiatrist will discuss with you the issues you are facing and will ask questions about your family history and medical history. You'll be asked to fill out questionnaires or rating scales that assist your doctor in assessing the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily activities.

Dr Cubbin will give you a complete ADHD report at the conclusion of your appointment. With your consent the doctor will then send the report to your GP so that they are aware of the results of your evaluation and any treatment recommendations.

There are a few people who prefer to pay privately for their ADHD assessment and treatment. If you're not certain whether your GP accepts a Shared Care Agreement or if waiting on the NHS list to schedule an appointment is not something you'd like to do, this can be a great alternative. It is important to remember that a private diagnosis does not mean that you'll automatically 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 if it's affecting your daily 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.

Member since: Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Website: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/private-adult-adhd-assessments/