About Adult ADHD Assessment and Support in Melbourne
Over the past few years, mental health professionals have seen a rise in people referred for adult ADHD assessments and subsequent diagnosis in adults. Some suggest it is becoming more common or over-diagnosed. However, the increase is more likely due to improved access to mental healthcare, greater awareness and understanding of the signs and symptoms of ADHD and a decrease in stigmatisation about mental health and treatment.
Furthermore, with advancements in medical research, there’s a broader perspective on ADHD’s impact on adult lives. Many who might’ve previously been overlooked are now getting the required attention and support. Education and advocacy efforts are playing a pivotal role, ensuring that everyone has the chance to understand and manage their condition optimally.
What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
Definition and Overview
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. This chronic condition affects both children and adults, significantly impacting their daily lives, relationships, and overall well-being.
ADHD is a complex disorder that requires a comprehensive understanding of its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Often misunderstood, ADHD symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions or simply attributed to a person’s personality or behavior. However, ADHD is a legitimate medical condition that necessitates a professional evaluation and diagnosis.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), provides the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, which includes symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Inattention symptoms may include difficulty sustaining focus, following instructions, or completing tasks. Hyperactivity symptoms might involve fidgeting, restlessness, or feeling constantly “on the go.” Impulsivity symptoms can manifest as interrupting others, blurting out answers, or acting without considering the consequences.
ADHD can profoundly affect a person’s daily life, influencing their relationships, work or school performance, and overall mental health. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of ADHD, seeking a professional evaluation is essential.
Common Signs and Symptoms of ADHD
- Difficulty concentrating on what people are saying
- Difficulty keeping your life in order and losing track of time
- Missing essential details and struggling to complete tasks
- Waiting until the very last minute to do things
- Intense feelings in response to feedback or mistakes
- Forgetfulness – often having to return home to collect essential items
- Frequent daydreaming, fantasising or catastrophising
- An ever-growing to-do list running around your head
- Jumping in to finish people’s sentences
- Intense feelings of laziness
Hyperactivity, inattention, and/or impulsive thoughts, feelings or behaviours can be common challenges experienced by those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, not everyone with these symptoms will meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis.
This is because it is natural for all people to sometimes jump from one task to another, interrupt conversations, say things without thinking, forget things or become disorganised. Therefore, to determine whether symptoms qualify for an ADHD diagnosis, a person should undergo a thorough assessment by a qualified practitioner.
Unlock Clarity: Schedule Your ADHD Assessment Today
Benefits of an ADHD Assessment
Why Seek a Professional Evaluation?
Seeking a professional evaluation for ADHD offers numerous benefits, including:
1. Accurate Diagnosis: A comprehensive assessment can determine whether you or a loved one has ADHD and identify the specific type (inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined).
2. Personalised Treatment: A professional evaluation helps pinpoint the most effective treatment options, whether medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
3. Improved Relationships: Understanding and managing ADHD symptoms can enhance relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.
4. Enhanced Daily Functioning: A professional evaluation can identify strategies to improve daily functioning, such as time management, organisation, and self-regulation skills.
5. Increased Self-Awareness: A comprehensive assessment helps individuals understand their strengths and weaknesses, leading to greater self-awareness and self-acceptance.
Why Choose Fortitude Wellbeing For Adult ADHD Assessments in Melbourne?
The ADHD Assessment Process
Utilising interviews, tests, and specialised assessments, we identify the complete spectrum of symptoms and their influence on your daily life through a comprehensive process conducted over multiple clinical consultations.
Accurate Comparisons
At Fortitude Wellbeing, our evaluations align with the Australian Clinical Practice Guidelines, encompassing semi-structured clinical interviews, standardised scales and psychometric tests over multiple consultations.
Beyond an ADHD diagnosis, our assessment process illuminates the need for specialised assessments involving family insights and medical data to craft an effective treatment plan. A formal ADHD diagnosis is crucial as it provides clarity and guidance for individuals facing ADHD-related challenges.
Please be advised that participation in an assessment does not guarantee achieving your desired outcome.
The Importance of Psychological Testing
Psychological tests are developed over many years. They undergo rigorous standards to make sure the diagnosis is consistent and authentic. In Australia, psychologists are trained to administer, interpret, and prepare reports based on the data collected within the psychological tests.
Participating in an evidence-based psychological assessment can establish whether a diagnosis of a psychiatric condition is warranted. Receiving an accurate diagnosis also determines the most suitable treatment supports and interventions.
For an adult ADHD diagnosis, standardised testing and assessment methods are utilised by psychologists. The Adult ADHD assessment includes:
- 3 x 1-hour clinical consultations
- Administration of ADHD-validated measures
- Full clinical and psychosocial assessment
- Full developmental, mental health and medical history (school reports or doctors’ referral letters can be helpful)
- Observer reports of the person’s symptoms or mental state
- Assessment Report
- Recommendations for treatment and support
Multimodal Treatment and Support
Research shows that combined pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment is better than each alone. Furthermore, non-pharmacological treatments are effective for improving functional outcomes (e.g., time management, emotional regulation, mood management, self-esteem, etc.) for people with ADHD, while pharmacological treatment is more effective at reducing core ADHD symptoms (e.g., inattention, hyperactivity). Both forms of treatment can be done concurrently.
Pharmacological (Medication) Treatment
If you are diagnosed with ADHD, you may require medication. In Australia, this medication is restricted. Consequently, it can ONLY be prescribed by a GP following an assessment by a psychiatrist at a medical clinic.
Collaboration with medical doctors and clinics ensures a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment.
An appointment with a psychiatrist will be an additional out-of-pocket expense. With an eligible GP referral, a Medicare rebate is available.
Nonpharmacological (Psychology) Treatment
Psychotherapy/counselling typically includes elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Sessions concentrate on your personal areas of difficulty.
- Building self-awareness
- Increasing self-esteem and self-worth
- Attention and concentration
- Time management
- Mindfulness-based strategies for mood management, anxiety, depression, etc
- Positive self-talk and mindset strategies
- Distress tolerance strategies
- Physical activity and a healthy diet
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an ADHD assessment typically take?
The duration can vary based on individual needs. Typically, it involves an initial consultation followed by two or more assessment sessions. You might expect it to take a few hours spread over several appointments.
Do I need a referral from my GP to get assessed at Fortitude Wellbeing?
While a referral can be helpful, it’s not always necessary. We recommend contacting our clinic directly to discuss your situation and any prerequisites.
What happens after the assessment?
After the assessment, we provide detailed feedback on the findings. If a diagnosis is made, we’ll discuss potential treatment options, resources, and strategies to support you in managing ADHD.
Can adults also be diagnosed with ADHD at Fortitude Wellbeing?
Absolutely. ADHD isn’t just a childhood condition. At Fortitude Wellbeing, we specialise in ADHD assessments for adults, recognising that many adults have gone undiagnosed in the past.
Will my insurance cover the ADHD assessment?
Coverage varies depending on your insurance provider and plan. We would recommend that you check with your insurer directly. Additionally, our team at Fortitude Wellbeing can provide guidance on potential costs and payment options.