ADHD Assessments – Adults
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is commonly associated with children. However, ADHD can persist into adulthood in many cases. In fact, it is estimated that up to 60% of children with ADHD continue to experience symptoms as adults.
Symptoms of ADHD?
The symptoms of ADHD in adults are similar to those in children and can include:
- Inattention: difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, distractibility
- Hyperactivity: restlessness, fidgeting, impulsivity
- Impulsivity: acting without thinking, interrupting others, difficulty waiting for turn
In addition, adults with ADHD may also experience:
- Lateness and forgetfulness
- Difficulty with organization and prioritizing tasks
- Poor time management
- Difficulty with relationships and social interactions
- Low self-esteem and self-worth
The above challenges can be very impairing of an individual’s functioning and lead to other mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Recently there has been a growth in the number of adults coming forward for testing and support to cope with these symptoms.
What does a ADHD Assessment involve?
A neuropsychological assessment can be useful in the diagnosis of ADHD and the understanding of the person’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses. An assessment can take between 2 and 5 hours, and includes a clinical interview, standardised cognitive tests of functioning, and questionnaires completed by the client and a loved one.
We will also ask to review background documents such as school reports or reports from other allied health assessments, where relevant.
The assessment can help to determine whether symptoms of attentional and executive functioning impairment are present. And if they are present, the assessment will help to determine if they are best explained by a diagnosis of ADHD or another psychological or physical condition.
A report will be provided that covers the background and testing data, makes diagnostic conclusions and provides recommendations for supports and strategies. A formal feedback session can be booked after the report is produced to review the results and recommendations.
If you wish to pursue the prescription of medication for ADHD, then the report can be taken to a psychiatrist to review the diagnosis and determine if medication is appropriate. Research suggests that a combination of behavioural strategies and medication is most effective in the management of ADHD.
Ongoing Support
Following a diagnostic assessment, we also have a team of psychologists and neuropsychologist who can provide treatment for adults with ADHD to help them learn ways to improve their ability to cope and manage their symptoms.
