ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
For people to get an accurate diagnosis of ADHD, the NHS requires a thorough evaluation. The BBC investigation highlighted that some private clinics might provide incorrect diagnoses and medications.
A legitimate diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the severity, number and duration of symptoms. The physician will interview and review the patient's medical, mental health and family history.
Diagnosis
Adults who experience symptoms that they believe may be ADHD should seek out a diagnosis to determine the right treatment and take control of their lives. If they suspect they may have ADHD or a family member or friend has suggested it, an assessment can aid them in managing their symptoms.
Patients should first discuss their concerns with an GP. They should be able to discuss their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. The doctor will refer them to a specialist mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be an experienced psychiatrist who has received specific training in the field. This is crucial since it means that the psychiatrist can be sure that they are using the correct criteria for diagnosing ADHD.
The psychiatrist will request that the patient bring their partner or close family members and friends who are familiar to them. They will also have to take into account the patient's medical history as well as mental health history, starting from childhood. They will also be looking at the severity of the symptoms and the effects on the patient's life. A brain scan or blood test will not confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need take into consideration all available information available.
If the psychiatrist doesn't believe that the patient meets all of the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis, they will explain why. It could be that the patient hasn't provided sufficient details about their problems or that another medical condition is responsible for their behaviour better than ADHD. It could also be that the doctor believes that the patient's issues are due to something else, rather than ADHD.
Some people have a difficult time getting a proper diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain healthcare experts. This is particularly true if you are an individual of color or a woman who was born or do not speak English natively. However there is an increasing awareness of this issue and the NHS is trying to tackle it.
Assessment
If you suspect that you may be suffering from ADHD or other disorders, you should have an assessment by a healthcare professional who is experienced in these tests. You may ask your physician for a referral or consult with local hospitals affiliated with universities or medical schools to see which professionals are qualified to perform an ADHD evaluation for adults. You can also ask an individual from your local ADHD support group for recommendations.
A diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number severity, duration and severity of symptoms that impact specific areas of your life. This could include school, work and relationships. You might experience issues that result in you not performing at work or education as well as difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, and being unorganized or disorganized. It is important to talk about these problems and not be afraid of criticism.
From GPs and consultant psychiatrists There are a myriad of healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment. However, in order to provide a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD the assessment must be performed by a qualified Psychiatrist, or Prescriber Qualified Specialist Nurse. This is because only a psychiatrist can prescribe medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
During an ADHD assessment, you will be questioned. It is important to bring a loved one along for support or as evidence. It is also helpful to write down your symptoms and how they've affected your life. The doctor will ask you questions to find out more about your past and how you are currently functioning. They will also check you to see whether there are any medical conditions that may be causing your ADHD symptoms.
You can also obtain an adult adhd diagnosis through the NHS however it may take some time due to the logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer to pay out of their own pocket for an assessment and treatment that is private through the 'Right To Choose option. But, it is important to be aware that the quality of treatment offered by private providers varies greatly and that it is essential that you choose carefully.
Medication
It is a good thing to have a thorough and complete assessment if you are struggling with ADHD symptoms in adulthood. This will enable you to receive the right medication and the support you need to manage your symptoms. There are a variety of private companies that offer this service but, should you decide to go this route it is crucial to look into the reputation of the selected psychiatrist, as well as their knowledge and training with neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a lot of prominent people have spoken out about their struggles with ADHD. For example, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s and said that the diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". NHS waiting lists are still crowded despite an increase in awareness.
In the end, GPs are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services for a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is largely due to the fact that they don't have the time, and in some cases they may not be able to find an expert clinician in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, this is made worse by the fact that NHS staff could be tasked with other care requirements such as mental health assessments.
Many people believe that private providers of ADHD assessments are too quick to diagnose those suffering from the condition. This could result in devastating effects for some. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue, and there is a dire need to increase accessibility to specialist ADHD tests.
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD it is possible to treat it by combining behavioural therapy and medication. Stimulant medications like amphetamine and methylphenidate can be used to improve focus and productivity, while non-stimulants with a slower onset like atomoxetine are useful for improving your attention and impulse control.
Some patients only choose treatment for behavioural issues and do not require medication. Priory can create a post-diagnostic care package for those who require medication. This will include a thorough report and titration of the final dose that can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can result in significant financial and human costs. It is important to conduct a psychiatric assessment and treatment program for all adults suffering from ADHD. iampsychiatry.com should include medication, psychological and practical assistance and family therapy where appropriate. This should also extend to family and workplace education about how to better manage and support an adult with ADHD in their daily life.
The first step is an interview with a mental healthcare professional who is qualified to evaluate ADHD or other conditions. Patients should bring a written list of their symptoms and any other mental health concerns to the first appointment. This interview will review the patient's medical, mental health and family background. It will also look at how ADHD symptoms affect the person's daily functioning and their relationships.
During this procedure, the doctor will verify that the symptoms match the criteria for ADHD that are defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must be present in two different settings of the individual's life (either home or work). It must affect their normal functioning and cause distress or impairment. This could take the form of difficulty getting a job, problems with marriage, or dealing with financial issues, difficulties at school or in their overall quality of life.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment. Psychologists know the way that brains work, but are not qualified to prescribe medications, so can only recommend counselling. Psychiatrists are fully qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD, and can offer medications if required.
If the Psychiatrist decides that the person suffering from ADHD is in need of medication they will prescribe the medication and give it to a local pharmacy. This is under the supervision of a Psychiatrist and should be completed within three months after the private assessment to ensure that the patient is able to be adjusted to their final dose of medication. If the GP accepts to continue to prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD evaluation The Psychiatrist will provide a thorough report with treatment recommendations. They can also draw up the Shared Care Agreement.