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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

ADHD Assessments – What to Expect

If you’re wondering whether you might have ADHD, you might be surprised to learn that getting a diagnosis isn’t a one-step process. ADHD assessments take time, care, and a thorough look at your history — and for good reason.

We follow the DSM-5 criteria, which means we’re looking for clear evidence that:

• Symptoms have been present since childhood
• They occur in more than one setting (for example, at home, at school, and/or at work)
• They significantly impact daily life
• They are not better explained by another condition (this is why ADHD is called a diagnosis of exclusion)

Because we need to gather so much information, it often takes several sessions before we can confirm the diagnosis and, if appropriate, start treatment.

Step 1 – Getting to Know You

The first step is a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation.

We’ll talk through your mental health history, medical background, and any difficulties with focus, organisation, or memory.

We’ll also look at:

• School and academic records
• Information from family members or caregivers (with your consent)
• Any past assessments or reports you’ve had done

Sometimes, we may recommend neurocognitive testing to help clarify the picture and rule out other causes for your symptoms.

Step 2 – Checking Medication Suitability

If stimulant medication might be helpful for you, we’ll need to make sure it’s safe. This can include:

• Checking your blood pressure and heart rate
• Blood tests to look at your general health
• A urine drug screen (to make sure it’s safe to prescribe)
• An ECG (heart tracing)

Why We Take This Time

Stimulant medications can make a big difference, but they can also have side effects such as:

• Increased heart rate or blood pressure
• Anxiety or trouble sleeping
• Potential for misuse

By taking the time to get the full picture, we make sure ADHD is the right diagnosis and that any treatment is safe and effective for you.