Facing an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) assessment can be a nerve-wracking experience, but being well-prepared can help ease your mind and ensure you get the most out of the evaluation. There isn’t a universal test for ADHD – instead, specialists conduct a thorough assessment to make a diagnosis.
The NHS outlines that these assessments may include a physical exam and various interviews or reports. TikTok user Charlotte (@adhdclubuk) took to the platform to share her personal journey through the assessment process she experienced as an adult diagnosed with ADHD.
Her aim was simple – to help others prepare for their own assessments and avoid being caught off-guard by possible questions. In her video, Charlotte breaks down the assessment into eight categories, discussing impulsivity, attention span and family history.
She also showed a note on her phone detailing how ADHD has impacted her life, clarifying that “hyperactivity” doesn’t necessarily mean constant physical activity. It can manifest in other behaviours like skin picking or a restless mind.
Charlotte highlighted some key areas to be ready for during the assessment. She claimed these may include questions about family history, any relatives with similar traits, past anxiety or mental health issues, and personal signs of hyperactivity or impulsiveness, reports the Mirror.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults is more challenging than in children, as the symptom list used for youngsters may not be as applicable to grown-ups. During an assessment, the specialist may inquire about your current symptoms and might request to see your old school records to understand your past behaviour.
In some instances, an adult may receive an ADHD diagnosis if they exhibit five or more symptoms listed on the NHS website under the categories of inattentiveness or hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
How to get a diagnosis of ADHD
If you’re concerned about potential ADHD symptoms in yourself or your child, your first point of contact should be your GP. Although they can’t formally diagnose ADHD, they can discuss your symptoms, their impact on your daily life, and when they began.
It could be beneficial to keep a record of these details, either digitally or in a handwritten diary, for future reference. If necessary, your GP can then refer you for a specialist assessment.
For an adult to receive an ADHD diagnosis, their symptoms must also moderately affect various aspects of their life. This is defined by the NHS as:
- underachieving at work or in education
- driving dangerously
- difficulty making or keeping friends
- difficulty in relationships with partners
In the UK, it is estimated that up to 4% of the population has a formal diagnosis of ADHD. However, the data doesn’t take into account that the majority of adults with ADHD are likely undiagnosed meaning there are potentially thousands of cases nationally.
For more information, visit the NHS website.