Investigation

What does an investigation mean?

An assessment is a systematic and professional examination of the person's mental state, level of functioning and any symptoms. The purpose is to clarify what is bothering them, why they feel heavy, and how they can best be helped.

An investigation may include different elements depending on needs:

• Conversations where life stories, thoughts and feelings are shared.

• Questionnaires and tests that highlight well-being, mental health or diagnostic signs.

• An overall assessment where professionals analyze responses and patterns and look at the whole.

The result is a clear picture of what may be behind the challenges. It could be stress, anxiety, depression or difficulties with attention and concentration. It could also be something completely different. The point is that answers are found together, so that uncertainty and guesswork are replaced by clear direction.

Why might an investigation be important?

Without clarity, you can be left feeling like you're groping in the dark. Many people say they've struggled with anxiety, fatigue, or difficult thoughts for years without knowing why — or what to do.

An investigation provides:

• Clarity and understanding: When a professional explanation is given as to why things feel the way they do, self-understanding becomes easier.

• Direction: With a clear picture of the challenges, it is easier to choose the right treatment, support and measures.

• Relief: The assessment itself can ease the burden because you are seen, understood and met with empathy.

• Security: There is no longer a need to do it alone — there is a plan and a professional eye that follows the process.

How does an investigation take place at Bemerk?

The process is always tailored to the individual, and we work with openness and care. A typical assessment may include:

• The initial conversation: A calm and thorough conversation about history, current situation and goals for the process.

• Examinations and tests: Depending on the problem, relevant tools are used, such as cognitive tests and questionnaires about well-being. If ADHD/ADD is suspected, both current and retrospective questionnaires are used, and information from childhood can be included.

• Diagnostic interview for ADHD/ADD: If there are sufficient signs of attention difficulties, a structured diagnostic interview is conducted over 2–3 conversations. It is an advantage if a parent or someone who knew the person growing up can contribute knowledge.

• Collection and assessment: Information from interviews, forms and tests is compiled into a comprehensive assessment, including relevant differential diagnostic considerations.

• Feedback and plan: In a summary interview, results are reviewed and specific recommendations are presented — e.g. therapeutic course, coping strategies, adjustments in everyday life and possible advice on psychiatric assessment if necessary.

Frequently asked questions about investigation

Is an investigation the same as getting a diagnosis?

Not necessarily. An assessment can lead to a diagnosis if the criteria are met, but can also result in a professional explanation and a targeted plan without a formal diagnosis.

How long does an investigation take?

It varies. Some clarifications can be done in just a few conversations, while more complex processes — for example, ADHD/ADD assessment — typically include 2–3 diagnostic interviews plus a review.

Can the results be used subsequently?

Yes. Conclusions and recommendations can be used in dialogue with a doctor, educational institution or workplace. Advice can also be given on options for psychiatric assessment, including private arrangements if a shorter waiting time is needed.

What if there is concern about “something serious”?

Investigation is about creating clarity, not finding faults. The purpose is to translate concerns into knowledge and concrete options for action.

When life gets too heavy – and the courage to reach out is hard to find

It can be difficult to take the first step. Thoughts like “Is it bad enough?” or “Am I exaggerating?” are common. You don’t have to wait until everything falls apart. An assessment is just as relevant for increasing restlessness, recurring fatigue, or lack of joy as it is for long-term and extensive difficulties. The earlier clarity and support are worked on, the easier it will be to regain balance.

Who can benefit from an investigation?

An investigation may be relevant for:

• Young people with school difficulties, exam anxiety or identity issues.

• Adults with stress, depression or recurring low self-esteem.

• People with suspected ADHD/ADD or other neuropsychiatric traits.

• People who have tried treatment without feeling affected at the core.

• People in life crises, e.g. divorce, grief or unemployment.
  The common denominator is the experience that something is not working, and the desire for a professional assessment that can point the way forward.

What do you get from booking an appointment with Bemerk?

By booking an assessment, you are met as a person — not as symptoms. The approach is characterized by:

• Openness: No prejudice. The individual's experience is important.

• Kindness: The courage to share difficult things is met with warmth and respect.

• Professional competence: The work is based on solid knowledge, experience and evidence-based methods.

• Individual adaptation: History and needs are unique, and so is the assessment.

This means that you leave not only with a conclusion, but also with the experience of having been met, understood and supported — and with a plan that can be put into action.

Book an appointment – take the first step

Booking a consultation can feel like a big step, but that very step can pave the way for change. When life feels heavy, reaching out is not a sign of weakness — it is a sign of strength and self-care. Bemerk offers consultations without waiting, so that clarification and therapeutic work can begin quickly. Book an appointment for a consultation at Bemerk — and take the first step towards more clarity, direction and energy.