ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
For people to get an accurate diagnosis of ADHD the NHS requires a thorough examination. The BBC investigation highlighted that some private clinics could be distributing inaccurate diagnoses and prescriptions.
A legitimate diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity and duration of symptoms. The clinician will interview the patient and go over the medical, psychiatric, family and personal background.
Diagnosis
Adults with symptoms they believe could be ADHD should seek a diagnosis to find the best treatment and control their lives. Whether they have an instinct that they might have the condition, or had a friend or family member suggest they might be suffering from it, getting the right diagnosis can help them find the treatments and support to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
Patients must first discuss their issues with an GP. Discuss your symptoms with them and how they affect your daily routine. The doctor will then refer them to an expert mental health professional who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has received specialist training in the area. This is crucial because it lets the psychiatrist be sure that they're using the right criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will ask the patient to bring their spouse or family members and friends who are familiar to them. They'll also need to consider the patient's medical and psychiatric history from childhood onwards. They will also take into consideration the severity of symptoms and the effects on the patient's life. A brain scan or blood test cannot confirm an ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need take into consideration all available information available.
If the psychiatrist believes that the patient doesn't meet all the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis the psychiatrist will explain their reasoning. It could be that the patient didn't provide enough information about their difficulties or that another condition better explains their behavior than ADHD. Or, it could be the case that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's difficulties are caused by something else and not due to the condition.
Some people find it harder to receive a correct diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain health professionals. This is especially the case if they're an individual of color or assigned a female birth, or are not an English native speaker. However there is a growing awareness of the issue and the NHS is working on tackling it.
Assessment
If you are concerned you might have ADHD you should seek an evaluation from a health care professional who is experienced in conducting these assessments. You may ask your physician for a referral or consult with the local medical schools or hospitals to find out who is qualified to conduct an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also ask the local ADHD support group for an appointment.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity, and duration of symptoms in certain areas of life. This could include school, work and relationships. You may experience problems that result in you not performing in your education or at work, difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, or being forgetful or disorganized. It is crucial to discuss these issues and not be afraid to take criticism.
From GPs to psychiatrists who consult There are a myriad of healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment. However, in order to be able to give a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD it must be performed by a qualified Psychiatrist, or a Prescriber Qualified Specialist Nurse. Iampsychiatry is because only a Psychiatrist can prescribe medication for the treatment of ADHD.
You are usually questioned during an ADHD evaluation and it is crucial to bring along someone from your family to offer support or evidence. It is also helpful to note down your symptoms and how they have impacted your life. The doctor will ask questions to discover more about your history and how you are currently functioning. They will also examine you to see whether there are any medical conditions that could be causing your ADHD symptoms.
The NHS can also offer a private adult adhd diagnosis, but this can take a considerable amount of time because of the long NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for private treatment and evaluation through the "Right to Choose" route is simpler. It is important to keep in mind that the quality and price of private healthcare can differ greatly.
Medication
It is beneficial to undergo a thorough and complete assessment if you are experiencing ADHD symptoms into adulthood. This will enable you to find the right medication and the help you need to manage symptoms. There are many private providers who offer this service. If you decide to use one of them, it is essential to investigate the reputation of the psychiatrist, their training, and their experience in managing neurodevelopmental disorders.
A lot of public figures have spoken out about their struggles with ADHD in recent months. Sue Perkins, the host of Great British Bake Off, was diagnosed with ADHD in her 50s. She claimed that the diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". However, despite the an increase in awareness, NHS waiting lists remain overflowing with people wanting to receive the right diagnosis and treatment.
As a result, GPs are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services in the event of a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is mainly because they do not have the time and, in some cases, they may be unable to find a clinician with expertise in neurodevelopmental conditions. In certain areas, NHS personnel may be required to address other needs such as mental health assessments.
Some people also believe that private companies offering ADHD assessments are too quick to diagnose people suffering from the condition. This could have devastating consequences for some. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue, and there is a dire need to increase accessibility to specialized ADHD assessments.
If you've been diagnosed as having ADHD, you can treat it using a combination treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant drugs like amphetamine and methylphenidate can be used to improve focus and productivity, while non-stimulants that are slower-acting like atomoxetine can be effective in improving the ability to concentrate and control impulses.
Some patients only choose treatment for behavioural issues and do not require medication. However, for those who need to take medication, a post-diagnostic package of care can be put together at Priory. 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 may have significant financial and human costs. It is crucial to conduct a psychiatric assessment and treatment program for all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication, psychological and practical assistance and family therapy where appropriate. This should also extend to workplace and family education on how to better manage and support an adult with ADHD in their daily life.
The first step is to interview with a mental health professional who is trained to assess ADHD and other related disorders. Patients are required to bring a list with their symptoms as well as any other mental health issues they have to this first appointment. This interview will review the patient's medical, psychiatric and family history. It will also discuss the impact of ADHD on the person's daily life and relationships.
In this process the doctor will ensure that the symptoms meet the criteria for ADHD defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must be present in two places of the person's life (either at home or at work). It should affect the person's normal functioning, and cause significant distress. This may be in the form of difficulties in finding a job, issues with marriage or coping with finances, issues at school or in their overall level of living.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment. Psychologists understand how the brain functions however they are not able to prescribe medications, so can only suggest counselling. Psychologists are qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and offer medication if needed.
If the Psychiatrist determines that the patient with ADHD requires medication, they will write a prescription for local pharmacists. This is done under the supervision and direction of the Psychiatrist, and is expected to be completed within three months from the private assessment. This allows the patient 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 provide them with a an extensive report and treatment recommendations, and will draft an Shared Care Agreement with the GP.