Ask Jigsaw: Assessment for ADHD

Friday, 20 November 2020

I’ve been thinking for a long time now that I might have ADHD and I want to get tested for it. It affects me daily and especially ever since the lockdowns and my school exams started. I was wondering how I could get tested for it but I didn’t know how 

-Fluffydog

Hi Fluffydog,

Thank you for reaching out and for sharing what has been going on for you. I’m sorry to hear this has been impacting you so much.

ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects both children and adults. People with ADHD can seem restless, may have trouble concentrating and may act on impulse.

While these symptoms are common among people with a diagnosis of ADHD, it can impact people differently. Although someone may experience symptoms of ADHD, for example difficulty concentrating, it doesn’t necessarily mean they will meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD.

Hazel

Jigsaw clinician

Who you are referred to will depend on your age and what is available in your local area.

Asking for an assessment

In saying that, if you are concerned that you might be experiencing ADHD, the first step would be to visit your GP and discus your concerns with them. You can tell the GP that you’re querying ADHD and explain your concerns about the impact this is having on you. The GP will discuss your options with you, and can make a referral to a specialist for an assessment, if they think this is appropriate. Who you are referred to will depend on your age and what is available in your local area.

If you are under 18, you will need consent from a parent/guardian for a doctor make a referral. In this case, consider talking to a trusted adult such as a parent/guardian about your concerns. Asking for help isn’t always an easy thing to do, but you deserve to get some support with this.

If you want to discuss this further, you are welcome to use our Live Chat service, where you can speak 1:1 with a member of the Jigsaw Online Team. This can be useful to explore what has been going on for you and to discuss your next steps.

Wishing you well,

Hazel

Jigsaw clinician