ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that people undergo a thorough assessment in order to get a proper ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation found that certain private clinics might be distributing unreliable diagnoses and inappropriate medication.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on symptoms and their severity, duration and impact. The doctor will interview the individual and review the medical, psychiatric, family, and personal history.
Diagnosis
Adults who experience symptoms that they believe could be ADHD should look for a diagnosis in order to find the appropriate treatment and gain control of their life. Whether they have an instinct that they may have the condition, or have had a family or friend member suggest that they might have it, obtaining the correct diagnosis can help them find the appropriate treatment and help to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
Patients must first discuss their issues with the GP. They should tell them about their symptoms and how they impact their daily life. The GP will recommend them to a skilled mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has received specific training in the field. This is crucial because it allows the psychiatrist to be certain that they are using the right criteria to determine ADHD.
The psychiatrist will talk to the patient and may will ask them to bring their spouse or close friends and relatives who are familiar with them. They must also examine the patient's medical history and psychiatric past, starting from childhood. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they affect the patient's lifestyle. A brain scan or blood test cannot confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need take into consideration all available information.
If the psychiatrist does not believe that the patient meets all the criteria required for an ADHD diagnosis the psychiatrist will explain why. It could be because the patient hasn't provided sufficient details about their problems or that a different condition is responsible for their behavior more effectively than ADHD. Or, it could be that the psychiatrist feels that the patient's difficulties are due to something else and not due to the condition.
Certain people find it difficult to receive a correct diagnosis due to the prejudices of certain health experts. This is especially relevant if you're someone of color or a woman who was born or don't speak English natively. The NHS is doing its best to solve this issue.
Assessment
If you are concerned that you may have ADHD you should get an assessment from a health healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting these assessments. You can ask your doctor for a referral or check with the local medical schools or hospitals to find out which professionals are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You may also ask for a referral from an ADHD support group in your region.
A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the amount of, severity and duration of symptoms that affect particular areas of your life. This includes relationships, school and work. You may experience problems with regards to not performing in school or work as well as difficulties in maintaining and forming relationships, and being unorganized or disorganized. It is essential to discuss these issues in a candid manner and not hold back from the fear of criticism.
There are many different healthcare professionals who are able to conduct an ADHD assessment, from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To make a formal diagnosis of ADHD it must be done by a qualified Psychiatrist, or a qualified Prescriber Special Nurse. Only a Psychiatrist can prescribe medication for ADHD.
You will usually be interviewed during an ADHD assessment and it is crucial to bring along someone from your family to offer support or evidence. It is important to write the symptoms you experience and how they affect your life. The doctor will ask you questions to gather details about your past and how you are doing. They will also examine you to determine if there are any medical conditions that may be causing your ADHD symptoms.
The NHS can also offer an adult adhd diagnosis that is private however this could take a very long time because of the overflowing NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer to pay out of their own pocket for a private assessment and treatment via the 'Right to Choice option. It is important to keep in mind that the quality and cost of private healthcare can differ significantly.
Medication
If you have been struggling with symptoms of ADHD in adulthood it is a good idea to have a full and thorough evaluation done. This will enable you to receive the correct medication and assistance you require to manage your symptoms. There are numerous private companies that offer this service but, should you decide to pursue this option it is crucial to investigate the reputation of your chosen psychiatrist and their training and experience in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders.
A high number of celebrities have been open about their struggles with ADHD in recent months. Sue Perkins, the host of the Great British Bake Off, was diagnosed with ADHD in her 50s. She claimed that the diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". But, despite an increase in awareness, NHS waiting lists remain jam-packed with people wanting to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
To avoid this, doctors frequently are reluctant to refer patients to specialist services to obtain an official ADHD diagnosis. In part, this is due to the fact that they don't have the time or resources, and in some instances, they might not be able find a specialist who is knowledgeable in neurodevelopmental disorders. In some areas, the NHS staff may have to deal with other needs like mental health assessments.
There is also a perception that some private companies that offer ADHD assessments are prone to misdiagnosing people with the condition, which could have devastating consequences for some people. This issue was brought up by the BBC Panorama program and there is an urgent need to improve access for ADHD assessments.
Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD, you can treat it with a combination of treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant drugs such as amphetamine or methylphenidate can be used to improve concentration and productivity, whereas non-stimulants with a slower onset like atomoxetine are beneficial for improving your attention and impulse control.
Some patients choose to only utilize behavioural therapy and do not require medication. However, for those who need to take medication, a post-diagnostic plan of care could be put together at Priory. This includes a detailed medical report and titration of the final dose, which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic care
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a significant one for both the financial and human cost. This is why it's so important that a psychiatric assessment and treatment programme be made available to all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication as well as psychological and practical support and family therapy if needed. This should also include the workplace and family members on how to better manage and assist an adult with ADHD in their daily life.
The first step is to interview with an expert in mental health 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 initial appointment. The interview will go over the patient's medical, mental health and family history. It will also look at the effects of ADHD on the person's daily life and relationships.
During this process, the doctor will verify that the symptoms are in line with the criteria for ADHD defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptoms must be present in two different environments (home or at work) of the individual's daily life. It should affect the person's normal functioning and cause significant distress. This could take the form of having difficulty keeping a job, trouble in marriage, or having to deal with financial issues, difficulties at school or in their overall level of living.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment. Psychologists know how the brain functions however, they are not qualified to prescribe medications, therefore they can only recommend counselling. Psychologists are able to diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication if necessary.
If the Psychiatrist determines that the person has ADHD needs medication, he or she will prescribe a prescription to local pharmacists. This is under the supervision and guidance of the Psychiatrist. It should be completed in three months from the private assessment. This will allow the individual to fully adjust their final dosage of medication. If private adhd assessments agrees that they will continue prescribing ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD evaluation The Psychiatrist can write a detailed report that includes treatment recommendations. They can also draw up the Shared Care Agreement.