Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders and has led to increased recognition of neurodivergence on a social level. Symptoms typically start in childhood and often persist into adulthood, including inattention, short attention span, inability to maintain focus, forgetfulness, and poor time management.
Many adults suspect they may have ADHD and seek an assessment and a diagnosis. Different clinics in the UAE have a different methods for diagnosing ADHD since a universal consensus is lacking on how to diagnose it. A traditional ADHD asssessment is mostly grounded in pediatric psychiatry given that the most common age of onset is for girls is usually between 5 and 9.
Adult ADHD presents differently. In adults, symptoms are often nuanced, so a targeted ADHD assessment for men and women is essential to differentiate ADHD from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms, such as insomnia, depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder. Conditions like bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder can mimic ADHD symptoms.
Furthermore, ADHD frequently coexists with depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use, which complicates diagnosis and also treatment. Some ADHD medication can actually worsen other conditions, such as anxiety.
The Valens Clinic is leading the way in offering a structured approach to ADHD screening in Dubai for adults of all ages.
The process is simplified and the cost of the ADHD screening and full assessment clear from the onset.
It consists of the following:
- An initial psychiatric consultation to rule out medical conditions like hyper-/hypothyroidism and iron deficiency, as well as psychiatric conditions. If ADHD is suspected or other conditions need to be prioritized these are addressed with the doctor.
- A Neuropsychiatric screening using evidence-based questionnaires to identify ADHD characteristics from childhood.
- If the screening is positive, referral to the neuropsychologist for a comprehensive neuropsychiatric ADHD assessment is initiated. This will lead to a report that is shared with the patient and his university or other institutions at their request.
- If the diagnosis is confirmed, a tailored psychological and pharmacological treatment plan is devised in collaboration with the patient to manage symptoms effectively.
- The Valens Clinic ensures each step aligns with best practices, supporting accurate diagnosis and effective management for ADHD symptoms. Those in need of an ADHD in adults test in Dubai. Online ADHD assessment is also available for adults in the UAE and abroad.
At the Valens clinic, Our clinical leads for Adult ADHD screening and assessment are Dr Ioannis Delipalas, Consultant Psychiatrist and Ms Carla Khalil, Neuropsychologist. They work as a team combining their many years of experience to provide the most accurate diagnosis and scientific treatment suggestions.
For more information please get in touch with our clinic using the online contact form or via WhatsApp.