ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that people undergo a thorough assessment for a proper ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation highlighted that some private clinics could provide incorrect diagnoses and medications.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on symptoms that are severe, their duration and impact. The physician will interview the patient and review the medical, psychiatric, family and personal history.
Diagnosis
Adults who experience symptoms that they believe might be ADHD should look for a diagnosis in order to find the best treatment and gain control of their lives. If they suspect they may have ADHD or someone in their family or a friend has suggested it, a diagnosis can help them manage their symptoms.
The first thing patients should discuss their issues with a GP. Tell them about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. The GP will then recommend them to a specialist mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist is a psychiatrist who has completed specialized training in this area. This is important because it lets the psychiatrist be sure that they're applying the correct criteria to determine ADHD.
The psychiatrist will ask the patient to bring their spouse or family members and acquaintances who are familiar with them. They'll also need to consider the patient's medical and mental background from childhood to now. They will also consider the severity of symptoms and the impact on the patient's life. There is no blood test or brain scan that can be used to confirm the ADHD diagnosis Therefore, the psychiatrist will need to assess all the available information.
If the psychiatrist believes that the patient does not meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis, they will discuss their reasons. It could be that the patient did not provide enough information about their issues or another condition better explains their behavior than ADHD. Or, it could be the case that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's problems are caused by something else and not the ADHD condition.
Some people find it harder to get a proper diagnosis because of the prejudices espoused by certain healthcare professionals. This is especially the case when they are a person of colour or a woman born at birth or not a native English speaker. However there is an increasing awareness of this issue and the NHS is working on tackling it.
The Assessment
If you think you may be suffering from ADHD or other disorders, you should have an assessment by a healthcare professional who is familiar with such assessments. You may ask your physician for a referral or consult with local university-based hospitals or medical schools to find out the professionals who are certified to perform an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also contact an individual from your local ADHD support group for recommendations.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the severity, number and duration of the symptoms in specific areas of life. This includes relationships, school and work. You may have problems with not performing well in school or at work, having difficulty making and maintaining relationships, or being unorganized or forgetful. It is essential to discuss these issues openly and not hide from the fear of criticism.
There are a myriad of healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultants psychiatrists. To provide a formal diagnosis of ADHD it should be carried out by a qualified Psychiatrist or a qualified Prescriber Special Nurse. This is because only a psychiatrist can prescribe medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
You will usually be interviewed during an ADHD evaluation, and it is important to bring an adult family member to provide assistance or to provide evidence. It is also beneficial to write down your symptoms and how they have affected your life. The doctor will ask you questions to gather information about your background and how you are doing. They will also check you to determine if you have any medical conditions that could be responsible for your ADHD symptoms.
The NHS can also offer an adult adhd diagnosis privately however, this could take a considerable amount of time because of the backed up NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer to pay out of their own pocket for private assessments and treatments through the 'Right to Choose' pathway. It is important to keep in mind that the cost and quality of private healthcare can differ dramatically.
Medication
If you've been struggling with symptoms of ADHD in adulthood, it is a good idea to have a complete and thorough evaluation done. This will help you get the correct medication and assistance you require to manage your symptoms. There are many private companies that offer this service. If you decide to use one of them, it is essential to research the reputation of the psychiatrist, their education, and their experience in managing neurodevelopmental disorders.
In adhd private assessment , a number of celebrities have spoken out about their struggles with ADHD. For instance, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s, and claimed that her diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". NHS waiting lists are still overcrowded despite the increasing awareness.
As a result, doctors are usually reluctant to refer patients to specialist services to confirm a diagnosis of ADHD. In part, this is due to the fact that they don't have the time, and in certain instances, they might not be able find a specialist who is knowledgeable in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, this is made worse by the fact that NHS staff could be being tasked with other health requirements, such as mental health assessments.
There are those who believe that private providers of ADHD assessments over-diagnose adults with the condition. This can have devastating effects for some. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue and there is a real need to improve access to specialist ADHD tests.
Once you have a private diagnosis of ADHD, it is possible to treat the disorder with a combination of treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant drugs such as amphetamine and methylphenidate are used to improve productivity and focus, while non-stimulants that are slower-acting like atomoxetine can be effective in improving attention and impulse control.
Some patients opt to use behavioural therapy and do not require medication. Priory can create a post-diagnostic care package for patients who require medication. This will include a comprehensive report and titration of the final dose, which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a significant one for both the financial and human cost. It is important to conduct a psychiatric assessment and treatment plan for all adults with ADHD. This should include medication, psychological and practical assistance and family therapy if needed. This should include family and workplace education on how to better assist and manage an adult suffering from ADHD.
The first step is an interview with a mental health professional who is certified to evaluate ADHD and other related disorders. Patients must be prepared to bring a written record of their symptoms, as well as any other mental health concerns to the first appointment. This interview will review the patient's medical, psychiatric and family history. It will also examine how ADHD symptoms affect the person's daily functioning and their relationships.
During this process the doctor will make sure that the symptoms are consistent with the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom has to be present in two places of the person's daily life (either home or work). It should interfere with the person's normal functioning and cause a lot of distress. This could take the form a difficulty in keeping a job or coping with finances or marriage or school problems, or in their general quality of life.
There is a wide range of professionals who can carry out an assessment for ADHD, including Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists are educated in the functioning of the brain, however they are unable to prescribe medications. They are able to provide counseling. Psychiatrists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication if required.
If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the person has ADHD requires medication, they will write a prescription for local pharmacists. This is under the supervision and direction by the Psychiatrist. The procedure should be completed in three months following the private assessment. This will allow the individual to fully adjust to their final dosage of medication. If the GP is willing to continue NHS prescribing following the private ADHD assessment The Psychiatrist will present them with a an extensive report and treatment suggestions and will draw up an Shared Care Agreement with the GP.