What is a Comprehensive ADHD Assessment?
A comprehensive ADHD assessment is an in-depth evaluation that helps clinicians accurately diagnose ADHD.
In our comprehensive ADHD assessment, you will get:
- an accurate diagnosis if you suffer from ADHD
- a comprehensive genetic test for medication
- one-hour follow-up appointment discussing your genetic test result
- accurate medication initiation if appropriate
- non-medication lifestyle change tools
Let's break down each of these in more detail:
An accurate diagnosis
Qualifications and verification
When seeking an accurate ADHD assessment and diagnosis, it is essential to find a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist, with proven expertise in ADHD. Practitioners should ideally:
- Have specialised training.
- Be on the Specialist Register.
- Or hold certifications from recognised institutions like the General Medical Council or the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
In England, ADHD diagnostic and treatment services should also be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), ensuring they meet rigorous quality standards.
Comprehensive ADHD assessment process
The ADHD assessment process is highly detailed, typically requiring two to three hours, following best-practice guidelines from bodies like the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
- During these sessions, practitioners examine the patient’s entire developmental history, perform screenings for coexisting conditions, and assess general mental and physical health.
- Standard diagnostic tools, such as the DIVA-V questionnaire, may be used, and the outcome of the assessment can lead to a diagnosis, reveal coexisting conditions, or highlight alternative explanations for the symptoms.
This thorough process ensures that ADHD, a lifelong condition, is accurately distinguished from other potentially temporary mental health conditions.
A comprehensive genetic test
Studies indicate that pharmacogenetic testing can lead to a 52% reduction in adverse drug reactions (ADRs) among patients who undergo preemptive pharmacogenetic testing compared to those who do not.
But what is pharmacogenetic testing?
- Pharmacogenetic testing in psychiatry is a form of precision medicine that examines your DNA to determine how your genetic makeup influences your response to medications, including how quickly you metabolise them.
- This enables doctors to tailor treatments more precisely to meet individual needs. In mental health, pharmacogenomics can significantly reduce the trial-and-error approach to psychotropic medications, where patients often face varied responses, side effects, and sometimes medications that do not work.
- Genetic testing offers a targeted approach that helps avoid ineffective drugs, reduces side effects, and increases the likelihood of effective treatment from the start, leading to fewer clinic visits and a more streamlined, safer treatment process.
How does it work?
The testing process is generally straightforward and minimally invasive, involving a self-administered cheek swab that can be done at home. After a consultation to assess symptoms and treatment history, a DNA test kit is provided, followed by lab analysis and a second appointment to review results and discuss personalised treatment recommendations.
What can it help me with?
Pharmacogenetic testing in psychiatry can assist in optimising treatment for various mental health conditions, including:
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Post traumatic stress disorder
A holistic follow-up appointment
Let's discuss what you can gain from your follow-up appointment — this is an essential step in your ADHD assessment and treatment journey. During this appointment, we'll discuss the results of your genetic test and how it relates to your symptoms and medication options. In this session, we will establish a foundation of sustainable tools, providing you with holistic options.
Accurate medication initiation
One of the main benefits of a comprehensive ADHD assessment and genetic test is that it can accurately determine the most effective medication for an individual. This is because everyone's body processes medications differently, and what may work for one person may be less effective for another. By understanding an individual's genetic makeup, healthcare professionals can tailor a medication plan with better results and fewer side effects.
Non-medication lifestyle change tools
Not every treatment for ADHD symptoms needs to be a prescription drug. In fact, lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing ADHD. Some examples include:
- Your daily routines. Establishing a routine for tasks like waking up, eating, working, and sleeping can help you stay on track and reduce stress.
- Exercise. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve focus and concentration in those with ADHD.
- Sleep habits. Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for managing ADHD symptoms.
- Dietary changes. Sustainable dietary habits can significantly improve your overall health. We'll provide personalised tips to help you incorporate healthy lifestyle changes into your daily routine.
What to Know Before Your Comprehensive ADHD Assessment
How much does the comprehensive ADHD assessment cost?
You can get a comprehensive 2.5 hr ADHD assessment including your pharmacogenetic test and 1-hour follow-up meeting at a total price of £3470. Further follow-up sessions are charged at £580 per 60 mins.
How long does the ADHD assessment take?
The full ADHD assessment will take approximately 2.5 hours.
How should I prepare for my ADHD assessment?
Before your scheduled ADHD assessment, here are some ways you can prepare to make the most out of your appointment:
- Take note of your symptoms. Make a list of any troublesome behaviours or symptoms you have noticed in yourself or others have pointed out to you.
- Gather important information. Where available, bring any past evaluations, school reports, or medical records related to ADHD.
- Come with questions. Take some time beforehand to write down any questions or concerns about ADHD and its treatment.
- Be honest and open. During the assessment, be as truthful and transparent as possible about your experiences and struggles with ADHD.
Get a Comprehensive ADHD Assessment Today
Let's recap what we've covered here:
- A comprehensive ADHD assessment provides an accurate diagnosis, genetic testing, and personalised treatment. This approach ensures individuals receive tailored care that reduces side effects and enhances treatment effectiveness.
- Genetic testing for medication helps optimise ADHD treatment by matching pharmaceutical options to individual genetic profiles. This reduces the trial-and-error process, minimises adverse reactions, and increases the likelihood of finding effective medications quickly.
- Lifestyle changes, such as structured routines, exercise, and dietary adjustments, can support ADHD symptom management. Non-medication strategies provide additional ways to improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance daily functioning.
An ADHD assessment that accounts for both your mental health and genetic predispositions can mean the difference between treatment that works and treatment that hurts.
It is essential to seek out a comprehensive assessment from a qualified healthcare provider as soon as possible if you suspect you have ADHD. With the proper diagnosis and treatment, you can effectively manage your symptoms and thrive in all areas of your life. Don't delay — schedule an assessment today!
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