What is an ADHD assessment?
An ADHD assessment is a comprehensive evaluation carried out by a psychiatrist or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional trained in diagnosing ADHD. It determines whether a person's symptoms meet the diagnostic criteria for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and considers how these symptoms affect their everyday life.
There is no single test for ADHD. Diagnosis is based on information about symptoms, development, medical and psychiatric history, and functioning in different areas of life.
What does an ADHD assessment involve?
An ADHD assessment usually involves a detailed clinical interview, questionnaires or rating scales, and a review of the person's developmental and medical history.
The specialist may ask about:
- Attention, concentration and organisation
- Impulsivity and hyperactivity
- Education, employment and relationships
- Emotional wellbeing and sleep
- Physical and mental health
- Symptoms during childhood
- Family history and relevant medical history
Information from parents, partners, teachers or other people who know the individual well may also be considered. This can be particularly useful when establishing whether symptoms were present during childhood.
The specialist will also consider other conditions that could cause similar symptoms or occur alongside ADHD.
Why is an ADHD assessment done?
An ADHD assessment is carried out when persistent difficulties with attention, impulsivity or hyperactivity are affecting a person's everyday functioning.
For adults, the assessment also considers whether symptoms were present during childhood, as ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that begins during childhood. NICE recommends specialist assessment where symptoms have persisted from childhood and are associated with significant impairment.
A formal assessment can help establish an accurate diagnosis and identify appropriate treatment and support.
Preparation for an ADHD assessment
Before the assessment, it can be helpful to think about how symptoms have affected different areas of life, both currently and during childhood.
Previous medical or psychological assessments, school reports and other relevant records may be useful. Where possible, information from someone who knew the individual during childhood can also help provide a clearer developmental history.
What to expect during an ADHD assessment
The assessment is usually conversational and may take place over one or more appointments. The specialist will ask about symptoms, their frequency and their impact in different settings.
Standardised questionnaires may be used to support the assessment, but they do not diagnose ADHD on their own. Additional psychological or cognitive testing is not routinely required and may only be recommended when clinically appropriate.
The specialist will then consider whether the overall pattern of symptoms meets the diagnostic criteria for ADHD.
What happens after an ADHD assessment?
If ADHD is diagnosed, the specialist will discuss appropriate treatment and support. Depending on the individual's needs, this may include medication, psychoeducation, psychological interventions and practical strategies to manage symptoms.
If ADHD is not diagnosed, the assessment may help identify other factors or conditions that could be contributing to the difficulties and guide appropriate support.
