NHS ADHD Diagnosis & Assessment with MHWS

We are commissioned by the NHS to provide specialist ADHD assessments, along with medication titration where appropriate. If medication is considered clinically appropriate, we will talk you through titration - this is the process of starting with a low dose, monitoring for effects and side-effects, and adjusting gradually until we find the dose that gives you the best benefit with the fewest unwanted effects. The decision to trial medication is always yours, and we support you through each step

Our service is designed to offer clear, thorough, and supportive assessments that help you understand whether ADHD may be contributing to the challenges you face in daily life. Below you will find everything you need to know ahead of your appointment, including what to do before your assessment, what to expect on the day, and how long the process may take.

What to Expect of an ADHD Assessment

Before Your ADHD Assessment

Ahead of your appointment, we will ask you to complete a questionnaire. This helps us build a picture of how ADHD symptoms may be affecting different aspects of your life. Where possible, we also ask that someone who knows you well - such as a family member, close friend, or colleague - completes a similar questionnaire. This provides valuable additional perspective.

We also ask you to record your blood pressure, pulse, height, and weight before your assessment. You can do this at home using a blood pressure monitor, at your GP surgery, or at a local pharmacy. If you are attending an in-person assessment, a member of our team can obtain these measurements at the time.

During Your ADHD Assessment

Assessments are offered either:

• In person at our Shrewsbury clinic
• Online via a secure video platform

You are welcome to bring a friend or family member for support.

Please note: If you are unable to attend your appointment, you must let us know at least 24 hours in advance. If you do not, we will have to discharge you from the service. This forms part of our NHS contractual obligations and helps us manage waiting lists fairly, ensuring other patients can be seen efficiently.

Your assessment will usually be led by one or two trained professionals and is divided into two parts:

1) The Conversation:

The first part of your assessment is a guided discussion, where we explore:

• How you experience symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity
• Your work and relationship history
• Childhood experiences and other relevant aspects of your life

This is a relaxed conversation with no right or wrong answers. It helps us understand your personal experiences and challenges and how they may be affecting your quality of life.

2) The Conclusion:

In the second part, we will review the results of your questionnaires alongside the information gathered during your conversation. This combined approach helps us decide whether you meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD .

• If you receive a diagnosis, we will discuss ADHD treatment options in detail. If medication is considered clinically appropriate, we will explain how it works and what to expect. The decision to begin medication is entirely yours - we will support whichever option feels right for you.
• If you do not meet the diagnostic criteria, we will discuss other possible explanations for your difficulties and consider what further support may be helpful.

Assessment Duration

ADHD assessments typically last up to two hours. We understand this can feel like a long time, so we allow at least one break during your consultation to ensure you remain comfortable and at ease throughout.