ADHD Assessments in the UK
ADHD symptoms can have a major impact on your professional and life. Finding out if you have ADHD symptoms can help you understand your challenges and find ways to manage them.
In the UK you can get an NHS ADHD assessment through your GP. This involves a frank conversation about your issues and could include a questionnaire or a screener.
What is an ADHD assessment?
A comprehensive ADHD assessment identifies signs that could be indicative of attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. The assessment involves gathering data from a variety of sources, including medical background and observations from family, friends members, and teachers. The test can also include neuropsychological testing which provides greater insight into strengths and weaknesses, and can help identify comorbid conditions.
The NHS currently has a system that allows patients to request an ADHD assessment from the health service provider of their choice. This allows for a more individualized approach to mental health and could be beneficial for people who are having difficulty obtaining NHS appointments.
However, the NHS has a bureaucracy, which means that patients can wait for years before they can be examined. Children and adults with symptoms of the disease may be very upset. This is the reason why private companies provide an alternative to the NHS for those who are in need of an evaluation.
During the examination, a certified clinical psychiatrist or psychologist will listen to the person's story and observe their behavior in different settings. They will inquire about their work as well as school and personal life and whether the problems are due to ADHD or another disorder, such as anxiety or depressive disorder. The information they collect will be used to build a picture of a person's challenges and create a diagnosis.
The clinician will also review a patient's medical history to determine if there are any causes that could be contributing to ADHD symptoms. For instance, some people may have a genetic tendency toward ADHD and have experienced symptoms in their early childhood. Other people may have an thyroid disorder that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
During the evaluation it is crucial that the patient is honest with the physician. It can be difficult to admit that you have trouble staying focused and organized, but this is essential for receiving the right treatment. People who are not treated for ADHD can have serious consequences, like being late to work and falling behind in classes, which could lead to financial or social difficulties.
What happens during a ADHD assessment?
A psychiatrist, psychologist, or psychotherapist with experience with ADHD will typically conduct an ADHD assessment. They can provide diagnosis and treatment options that could help you or your child.
During the examination the healthcare professional will go over your medical history as well as your symptoms. They will also ask about the impact your symptoms have on your work and social life, as well as whether they are caused by any other conditions. They will also ask about your family history of mental health issues, particularly in the event that any of your closest relatives have been diagnosed with ADHD.
Then, you will be asked to fill out the list of symptoms. This will allow the healthcare professional to identify whether you are experiencing a predominantly inattentive presentation, a predominately hyperactive-impulsive presentation or a combined presentation. Generally, you will need at least six established symptoms of either inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity to receive an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. Children will require more signs to meet the requirements for a diagnosis.
The healthcare professional will then interview you or your children about their behavior and how it impacts their daily activities. They will also inquire about any other problems that you or your child might be dealing with, such as anxiety disorders or learning difficulties.
Based on the results of the questionnaire and interview the healthcare professional might suggest further diagnostic testing. This may include a brain scan or blood tests to test for any medical cause of the symptoms of your child or you.
If your GP suspects that you or your children suffer from ADHD the doctor will refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist or psychotherapist who will conduct an official assessment. The NHS route is free, but can take longer than private. A diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood can be extremely useful. It allows you to request adjustments at school or work that can improve your performance. This could mean things like a more peaceful work environment, extra time on tests or being able to take advantage of your lunch break to go to an appointment with your doctor.
How long does an ADHD assessment last?
In general, it can take as long as three hours for a psychiatrist to complete an ADHD assessment. This includes one-on-one interviews, reviewing questionnaires (rate the frequency and how severely you're experiencing symptoms) as well as an observational test of your behaviour and, if needed, an observational test. Preparation is key. Keep a journal of your symptoms and complete the questionnaires prior to your appointment. This allows your appointment to run smoothly and means that important information isn't missed.
During the interview, your doctor will ask you questions about your life and your mental health history. They will consider any family mental health problems that you or your child might be suffering from. The doctor will also take into consideration whether you have been diagnosed with ADHD in the past, since this can influence the dosage and type of medication prescribed. Bring your children or partner along to the appointment. They may have some useful information.
Being honest in answering questions and being honest with the evaluator is crucial. It can be a difficult process, especially for older adults, but honesty is essential to ensure the most accurate diagnosis. It is not uncommon for patients to present with some symptoms, but not others, which can affect the results of the examination. This could result in a misdiagnosis or an untrue treatment plan which can lead to significant problems.
The length of your examination will be determined by the amount of background information you need to provide. If you have a long medical or psychiatric history, the longer your test will be.
If you're examined by a specialist, they will write a comprehensive ADHD assessment report. Then with your consent, send it to your GP. This can help to improve your doctor's understanding of the condition and can also help them to provide you with the best treatment possible. We also provide advice and guidance between appointments, via emails or phone calls. This service is provided free of charge. If click to find out more require a letter for your school or workplace, there will be an additional fee.
What happens after an ADHD evaluation?
We will send you forms to fill out prior to your appointment. The forms will include a self-reporting rating of your symptoms, questions about your family history and a full medical and psychiatric test. These forms assist us in keeping on track with our schedules and allow the psychiatrist to spend as much time as is possible in assessing your symptoms for ADHD. Please ensure that you've completed these prior to your appointment, so that the psychiatrist can review them prior to meeting you.
Your assessment will be conducted by a specialist psychiatrist or psychologist. Only these professionals are qualified in the UK to diagnose ADHD, as opposed to GPs who may discuss concerns with you, but they are not able to officially request an assessment. Your assessment will likely be conducted via video-call, though in some cases you may be able meet your clinician in person.
During the ADHD assessment, you'll be asked about your current symptoms and how they impact your daily life. It is important to be as honest as you can and try to recall any symptoms that you have experienced from childhood. This is because, as per current guidelines for diagnosis, it's currently thought that a diagnosis of ADHD in adults can only be confirmed if there were symptoms in childhood.
You may be asked to provide certain details about your job or relationships, as well as other aspects of your daily life. This will enable your psychiatrist get a complete picture of your struggles so they can make a determination based on your situation.
If you are assessed for ADHD, your clinician will talk with you about treatment options. They'll be able to recommend medication, CBT therapy and other treatments that may help you manage the disorder. They will also be able discuss with you any possible side effects.
A professional diagnosis of ADHD is often a huge relief for many. It can ease feelings of confusion and self-doubt by confirming that the issues you are experiencing are due to ADHD, rather than some sort of personal failing. It can aid your loved ones understand you better and develop empathy.