As a GP, you play an essential role in identifying when an assessment for neurodivergent traits might be necessary. Many patients present with symptoms that overlap with ADHD, Autism, or learning difficulties, and you are often the first point of contact. Understanding when to refer for a formal assessment can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life and support them in receiving the right care.

When to Consider an Assessment

As a GP, there are several key indicators that may suggest the need for an ADHD, Autism, or learning assessment:

• ADHD indicators: Persistent inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and executive functioning challenges that impact daily life, such as organisation, planning, and memory.
• Autism indicators: Social communication difficulties, sensory sensitivities, and a preference for routines or specific interests that may impact social interactions and emotional regulation.
• Learning disorder indicators: Ongoing academic struggles in reading, writing, math, or comprehension that are inconsistent with a patient’s cognitive ability.

It’s important to recognise that neurodivergent individuals, particularly those who engage in masking (e.g., women, gender-diverse individuals, or older adults), may present more subtly. Masking refers to consciously or unconsciously suppressing one’s natural behaviours and mimicking neurotypical communication to fit in socially. In these cases, assessment is especially critical to avoid misdiagnosis or delays in appropriate support.

Supporting Your Patients

When referring for an assessment, GPs can assist by:

• Ruling out medical factors that could influence behaviour, such as thyroid issues, sleep disturbances, or nutritional deficiencies. A comprehensive physical examination can help ensure that the patient’s symptoms are not due to underlying medical conditions.
• Exploring the patient’s developmental history: Take note of when symptoms first appeared and whether the traits have been consistent across the lifespan. Understanding the developmental timeline is crucial when diagnosing conditions like ADHD or Autism.
• Engaging with the patient or caregiver: Discuss the potential benefits of assessment with patients and their families. Provide a referral for a comprehensive evaluation at a specialist centre, like The Hummingbird Centre, which offers assessments.

By making a referral for a neurodivergent assessment, GPs can help patients access tailored support that improves educational, emotional, and social outcomes, leading to a better quality of life.