ADHD – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

There are three main types of ADHD which we look for when assessing a patient.  These are mainly inattentive, mainly hyperactive or a combination of both.

Under DSM 5 (the Diagnostic Statistical Manual  version 5 which is used in diagnosing ADHD), there are two main parts of ADHD, these are inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.  There are nine symptoms in each of these parts.

As a child, to reach a diagnosis, there must be six or more symptoms in the clinical range in either part.  If there are six or more symptoms in both parts, the diagnosis will be ADHD combined type.  As an adult these symptoms are reduced to five.

What can I expect from an adult ADHD assessment?

An assessment for adult ADHD comprises of a face to face or virtual appointment.  Before your appointment you will be sent a number of questionnaires to be completed.  These will include questionnaires to be completed by you and by someone who knows you well, ideally since childhood.  The questionnaires are a valuable tool which will enable a diagnosis to be made (or not).  Your appointment will include a discussion around the completed forms, a detailed history will be taken and a diagnostic interview (DIVA 5) will be completed.  Your appointment will last approximately 90 minutes and which includes time for discussion around medication if indicated and time for any questions you may have.