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Do you struggle with missing details, forgetfulness, and disorganisation? Then you may have ADHD with mainly inattention (also known as ADD). We can help you get clarity and fully-informed before you take the step towards an adult ADD assessment.
How do I start an assessment?
Seeking an understanding and possible diagnosis of ADD as an adult can feel like an overwhelming process but it doesn’t have to be. You might have feel as if something has not been working for a long time, so an assessment can provide answers to any questions you have. At Lavendla, you can get help quickly by booking an introductory online session.
How long does an assessment take?
An ADD assessment, which is a neuropsychiatric assessment, takes about 8-10 hours in total. Here we will go through how we proceed with an ADD assessment for adults through Lavendla. We have short waiting times which makes it possible to get support quickly and on your way to an improved quality of life.
What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!
Benedetta Osarenk
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First contact for an ADD assessment
When you recognise signs of ADD in yourself, such as difficulties with attention and concentration, the first step is to contact a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist. At Lavendla, we can help you with an initial consultation and, from there, make a plan for your assessment.
Second step: Preparing for the assessment of ADD
Before the actual assessment process, we start with an assessment interview where for reviewing your background, symptoms and other factors that may explain your problem. You will also complete assessment forms related to your behaviour and difficulties.
Step 3: How does the ADD assessment work?
An assessment usually involves meeting with a licensed psychologist, who will conduct interviews and testing, and a psychiatrist who will conduct a neurological assessment and order tests. The different parts of an adult ADD assessment in private practice usually include:
- Interviews: We conduct a diagnostic interview where we look at how your symptoms have affected you in childhood and adulthood, in areas such as work, leisure and relationships. To make sure that your symptoms have been present since childhood, we usually also have an interview with a family member.
- Psychological tests: These measure attention, concentration, and other cognitive functions.
- Doctor’s visit: As part of the assessment, you will see a doctor for a neurological assessment and blood tests.
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Step 4: Evaluation and diagnosis
After the assessment, the doctor and psychologist will summarise the results and make a diagnosis together. You will then receive a thorough review of the results with a written report and recommendations for further action. It is important to remember that a diagnosis is a tool for understanding your challenges and strengths, not a label defining who you are.
Step 5: After the assessment
If we make a diagnosis, we will discuss different treatment options with you. This may include:
- Medication, if necessary
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) adapted for ADHD with mainly inattention
- Support and adaptations in working life or studies
It is also good to keep in mind that a neuropsychiatric diagnosis also entails certain rights such as study mentoring and longer periods of probation.
Can you have ADD as an adult?
Yes, ADD is present in adults, and often people have spent a long time feeling that something is not right. It is not uncommon to miss the diagnosis during childhood, especially in women. Symptoms can also become more pronounced in adulthood as the demand for self-care increases with more personal responsibility. Sometimes parents may have compensated for the difficulties during childhood and they may become more pronounced when you have children of your own. It is therefore important to seek an assessment if you suspect that you may have ADD so that you can get support and help.
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45, 60 or 90 min sessions
Choose a 45, 60, or 90-minute session, or a package, providing flexibility and control over the duration and intensity.
Why is an assessment important?
An assessment can give you answers and an understanding of yourself and how you function. You can learn more about your difficulties, which in turn can lead to better support and help. It can also be a relief to get an explanation of why certain things have always been a challenge.
We want to make the difficult easier for you. If you are considering an ADD assessment, contact Lavendla. We are here to guide and support you on the journey to better understanding and managing the symptoms of ADD, whenever you feel ready to take that first step.
12 common questions about ADHD with primary inattention
What is an ADD assessment for adults?
An ADD assessment is a process in which psychologists and doctors conduct various tests and interviews to determine whether an adult has ADHD with primary inattention, a condition often characterised by attention problems and distractions.
How does an ADD assessment work?
The assessment usually includes cognitive tests, interviews and a thorough medical and psychological history to understand your history and current situation, which helps identify how the symptoms affect different areas of your life.
How long does an assessment for ADD take?
The duration of an ADD assessment can vary, but it usually takes 8-10 hours, over a period of 4-6 weeks, depending on the extent and severity of the symptoms.
What are the symptoms to look out for that could indicate ADD?
Symptoms can include problems with organising and completing tasks, a tendency to procrastinate, problems with sustaining attention, and memory problems involving forgetting and losing things.
Can you have ADD without having had it as a child?
The symptoms should have been present since childhood but it is possible to have unnoticed symptoms that only become apparent or problematic in adulthood. They may become more apparent as demands or responsibilities increase.
What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?
A few years ago, it was decided to remove ADD from the DSM (the US diagnostic manual) and instead call it all ADHD, but with three different forms of inattention combined with impulsivity and hyperactivity, and one with only hypeperactivity/impulsivity. A bit confusing, we know.
Do I need a referral for an ADD assessment?
The NHS requires a referral from a GP and waiting times can be long. With Lavendal, no referral is needed and the wait is short.
What treatment options are available if I am diagnosed with ADD?
Treatment may include medication, cognitive behavioural therapy adapted for ADHD, and support from an occupational therapist to manage everyday life, as well as aids to organise work and studies.
How much does an ADD assessment cost?
At Lavendla, the psychologists and investigators have differing rates, but on average sessions cost between €30-€100 each.
What can I do to prepare for an ADD assessment?
You don’t need to prepare before the investigation begins, but if you have started previous investigations or want a second opinion, it may be helpful to bring that material to your investigator.
Do I have any rights once I have been diagnosed?
A neuropsychiatric diagnosis entails certain rights in society, such as extra support for studies, even in adulthood. You also have rights based on discrimination legislation.
Can I get help for other problems such as anxiety, depression or stress?
If you have symptoms of ADD but also other psychiatric symptoms, you can get treatment for this too. This is usually effective.
What kind of treatment can I get for ADD?
Seeking help and treatment for ADHD with mainly inattention is an important process that can significantly improve your quality of life. If you suspect that you are suffering from ADD-related symptoms, you can follow these steps:
Pay attention to your symptoms
Note when and how your symptoms affect your daily life. This may include forgetfulness, difficulty organising tasks, or trouble staying focused.
Consult a healthcare provider
Schedule a consultative appointment with Lavendla to see how we can help you. We can make an initial assessment visit to see if you can be helped by an assessment.
Evaluation and diagnosis
A doctor and psychologist will conduct a series of evaluations, including interviews and cognitive testing, to determine if your symptoms are consistent with ADD.
Treatment plan
After diagnosis, a treatment plan will be developed. This may include medication, therapy, occupational therapy, and strategies for managing everyday life.
Medication
Stimulant and non-stimulant medications may be prescribed to help control symptoms. The drugs’ effects and side effects will be closely monitored.
Therapy and support
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) adapted for ADHD may be recommended to help manage symptoms and improve organisational skills.
Training and job adaptation
Educate yourself about ADD to better understand your condition. Talk to your employer about any adaptations that may be needed in the workplace. If you are a student, you are entitled to support measures such as mentoring and extra time during exams.
Follow-up and adjustments
Regular follow-up meetings happen with your doctor to adjust the treatment plan as needed and to address any side effects or questions.
Taking care of yourself
Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep are important in managing ADD. It is also important to manage stress and work on your self-esteem.
As starting treatment can often seem challenging, a step in the right direction can be just having that first conversation with a psychologist or therapist. This is why Lavendla recommends booking an initial online session with one of our experienced therapists who will be able to answer your questions and make a plan for assessment if necessary. We make the difficult easier.
