When it comes to ADHD, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can impact all areas of life, from personal relationships, learning, and career progressions, to the mundane, organisations of daily life.
In order to determine a successful diagnosis of ADHD, it is important to understand the patient’s background, most importantly childhood, and whether ADHD was present in it. Below we will look at why the DIVA 5 assessment is so important in today’s ADHD assessment and diagnosis process and just how it is used.
What is the DIVA-5 and why is it so Important in an ADHD Assessment?
DIVA-5 stands for Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults. It is a structured diagnostic ADHD assessment designed specifically for evaluating ADHD in adults. Developed by experts in the field, including researchers and clinicians, this tool is tailored to address the unique challenges and manifestations of ADHD in adults.
According to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th Edition), diagnosing ADHD in adults involves determining the presence of ADHD in both childhood and adulthood. To evaluate the individual’s experiences against each of the 18 symptom criteria for ADHD in childhood and adulthood, the DIVA-5 interview provides a list of concrete and realistic examples of current and retrospective behaviour.
The DIVA-5 asks only about the core symptoms of ADHD required to make the DSM-5 diagnosis. It does not ask about other comorbid conditions that may be present alongside ADHD. This highlights the importance of conducting a full, general psychiatric assessment, as it is thought that over half of those with ADHD also have comorbid conditions.
How is the DIVA-5 Used in an ADHD Assessment?
In the UK, the DIVA-5 assessment is rapidly gaining recognition due to its evidence-based approach, alignment with international diagnostic criteria, and its ability to provide a holistic view of an individual's ADHD symptoms and their impact on daily life. The assessment process involves several stages:
Initial Contact.
When seeking an ADHD assessment in the UK, individuals may be referred by their primary care physician (GP), mental health professional, or even self-refer. This marks the beginning of the diagnostic journey.
Clinical Interview.
A qualified clinician, often a psychiatrist or psychologist, conducts a structured interview with the individual seeking the ADHD assessment. This interview is crucial in understanding the nature and severity of symptoms, as well as their impact on daily life.
Symptom Evaluation.
During the interview, the clinician uses the DIVA-5 assessment tool to ask a series of standardised questions related to ADHD symptoms. This includes questions about inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, considering both the presence and persistence of these symptoms.
Contextual Exploration.
The clinician will then delve into the individual's history, including childhood experiences, academic performance, employment history, and relationships. Understanding the context in which symptoms have manifested helps paint a complete picture.
Comprehensive Assessment.
The DIVA-5 assessment goes beyond symptom identification, it assesses the impact of ADHD symptoms on daily functioning, work, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Collaborative Approach.
In some cases, additional information from family members, partners, or close friends may be requested. This collaborative approach provides a broader understanding of the individual's behaviour and its impact.
Diagnosis and Recommendations.
Based on the assessment findings, the clinician determines whether the individual meets the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis. If a diagnosis is made, the clinician provides recommendations for treatment options, which may include behavioural interventions, psychoeducation, and, in some cases, medication.
Obtaining a Focused, Personalised ADHD Assessment with Beyond, a Private ADHD Clinic in Warrington.
At Beyond, we follow a simple, step-by-step process of ADHD assessment, one that is both accurate and focused on you, to enable us to form a clear picture of each individual case. From booking with us, we aim to have your first appointment within 7 days and complete the ADHD assessment within 4 weeks. We offer flexibility by working at your pace and offering both face-to-face and online appointments.
One of our specialist ADHD nurse practitioners will meet with you, either in person or online to complete the DIVA-5 interview, where we will gather information on your symptoms experienced in childhood and adulthood and look at the impact these have on you and your life.
Call us for a confidential chat or book an ADHD assessment today at our private ADHD clinic in Warrington.
