How to Optimize Your GP Visit When Seeking an ADHD Diagnosis

Getting diagnosed with ADHD can be a lengthy process, but being prepared for your initial GP appointment can help streamline the journey. This guide will help you make the most of your first consultation when seeking an ADHD diagnosis.

Before Your Appointment

1. Document Your Symptoms

Keep a detailed record of the symptoms you or your child are experiencing. Note when they occur, their severity, and how they impact daily functioning.

"Comprehensive symptom documentation helps clinicians make accurate assessments and can significantly reduce diagnostic delays." (Asherson, P., et al., 2016. BMC Psychiatry, 16, 115)

2. Gather Your Medical History

• Previous diagnoses (mental health or physical conditions)

• Family history of ADHD or other mental health conditions

• Medication list including current and past prescriptions

• Educational or work performance records showing patterns of difficulty

"A thorough developmental and medical history is essential for accurate ADHD diagnosis and helps rule out alternative explanations for symptoms." (Kooij, J.J.S., et al., 2019. European Psychiatry, 56, 14-34)

3. Complete Screening Questionnaires

For Adults:

• Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS): An 18-item questionnaire developed by the World Health Organization

• Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS): Helps identify childhood ADHD symptoms in adults

• Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scale (BAARS-IV): Assesses current symptoms and childhood history

For Children:

• ADHD Rating Scale-5 (ADHD-RS-5): Parent and teacher versions available

• Vanderbilt Assessment Scales: Comprehensive assessment that includes other behavioral concerns

• Conners Rating Scales: Evaluates attention problems, hyperactivity, and related behaviors

"Standardized rating scales have demonstrated reliability as screening tools and provide an objective measure of symptom severity across different environments." (Sibley, M.H., et al., 2018. Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology, 47(2), 199-212)

4. Collect Collateral Information

• For children: Request teacher reports or school records

• For adults: Consider bringing statements from partners, parents, or close friends who can corroborate symptoms

• Include examples from different environments (home, work/school, social settings)

"Multiple informant reports are considered best practice in ADHD assessment as they provide crucial evidence of symptom pervasiveness across settings." (DuPaul, G.J., et al., 2017. School Psychology Review, 46(1), 3-20)

During Your Appointment

1. Be Specific About Impact

Explain how symptoms specifically affect:

• Academic or work performance

• Relationships with others

• Daily tasks and responsibilities

• Self-esteem and emotional wellbeing

"Functional impairment, rather than symptom count alone, is increasingly recognized as central to ADHD diagnosis and treatment planning." (Faraone, S.V., et al., 2021. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 7(1), 1-21)

2. Bring a Structured Summary

Organize your information in a concise, easy-to-review format:

• Bullet-point list of key symptoms

• Timeline of when symptoms began

• Summary of completed questionnaires

• List of specific questions you want answered

"Clinicians report more accurate and efficient assessments when patients provide organized symptom summaries prior to consultation." (Holthe, M.E., & Langvik, E., 2017. Nordic Psychology, 69(2), 118-126)

3. Consider Bringing Support

A family member or friend can help by:

• Providing additional perspective on symptoms

• Helping recall information you might forget

• Taking notes during the appointment

• Providing emotional support

"The presence of a supportive individual during diagnostic consultations has been shown to improve information recall and reduce anxiety." (Wolff, J.J., & Symons, F.J., 2013. Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, 34(3), 216-224)

4. Ask About Next Steps

Before leaving, clarify:

• Referral process to specialists if needed

• Expected timeline for diagnosis

• Any additional assessments required

• Interim support strategies

"Understanding the diagnostic pathway reduces uncertainty and helps patients maintain engagement throughout the assessment process." (Coghill, D., & Seth, S., 2015. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 24(1), 3-13)

What to Expect After Your Initial Visit

The diagnostic process typically includes:

1. Referral to specialists (psychiatrist, neuropsychologist, or ADHD specialist)

2. Comprehensive assessment which may include:

   • Clinical interviews

   • Neuropsychological testing

   • Additional questionnaires and rating scales

3. Differential diagnosis to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms

4. Feedback session to discuss findings and treatment options

"The gold standard for ADHD diagnosis remains a comprehensive clinical evaluation that incorporates multiple assessment methods and considers differential diagnoses." (Cuffe, S.P., et al., 2020. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 59(4), 418-431)

Resources for Further Support

• ADHD Associations: National organizations offer guidance, support groups, and educational materials

• Online Screening Tools: Many professional organizations offer free online screening questionnaires

• Patient Advocacy Groups: Can provide advice on navigating healthcare systems for diagnosis

• Mental Health Apps: Some apps help track symptoms before and during the diagnostic process

"Engagement with support resources during the diagnostic process is associated with increased understanding of ADHD, better treatment adherence, and improved long-term outcomes." (Young, S., et al., 2020. BMC Psychiatry, 20(1), 1-27)

Remember: This article provides general guidance but cannot replace professional medical advice. The diagnostic process varies by location and individual circumstances.