ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
For people to get a proper diagnosis for ADHD the NHS requires a thorough assessment. The BBC investigation found that certain private clinics may provide incorrect diagnoses and medications.
A valid diagnosis of ADHD is based on the severity, number, duration and impact of symptoms. The clinician will interview and examine the patient's medical, psychiatric and family history.
Diagnosis
For those who believe they have symptoms that may be associated with ADHD and are seeking a diagnosis, it is the first step in finding treatment and gaining control over their lives. Whether they have an instinct that they might be suffering from the condition, or been told by a family member or friend that a member suggest that they might have it, getting the right diagnosis can help them find the appropriate treatment and help to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
The first thing that patients need to discuss their issues with an GP. They must inform them of their symptoms and how they impact their daily lives. The doctor will refer them to a seasoned mental health professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist must be a psychiatrist who has completed specialized training in this area. This is crucial because it means that the psychiatrist will be confident that they are applying the correct criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will request that the patient bring their spouse or family members and friends who are familiar to them. They will also have to consider the patient's medical history and the psychiatric history, beginning from childhood. They will also take into account the severity of the symptoms and how they affect the patient's lifestyle. There isn't a brain scan or blood test that can confirm an ADHD diagnosis, so the psychiatrist will need to assess all of the information available.
If the psychiatrist believes that the patient doesn't meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnoses, they will explain their reasoning. It could be that the patient hasn't provided sufficient detail about their difficulties, or it might be that another condition explains their behavior better than ADHD. Or, it could be that the psychiatrist feels that the patient's issues are caused by something else and not the condition.
Some people find it harder to get a proper diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain healthcare experts. This is particularly the case when they are someone of color or assigned a female birth, or are not an English speaker. The NHS is doing its best to address this issue.
The Assessment
If you're concerned that you may have ADHD you should seek an evaluation from a health healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting these assessments. You may ask your physician for a referral or consult with local university-based hospitals or medical schools to determine which professionals are qualified to perform an ADHD evaluation for adults. You could also seek a referral from an ADHD support group in your region.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity and duration of the symptoms in particular areas of life. These could include school, work and relationships. There are times when you may face problems in the form of underachieving in school or work or in difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships and being forgetful or disorganised. It is important to talk about these problems and not be afraid of criticism.
There are a myriad of healthcare professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To give a definitive diagnosis of ADHD it must be done either by a Psychiatrist who is qualified or a Prescriber Qualified Special Nurse. Only a Psychiatrist is qualified to prescribe medication for ADHD.
You are usually questioned during an ADHD evaluation, and it is important to bring along an adult family member to provide assistance or to provide evidence. It is important to write your symptoms and how they affect your life. The doctor will ask questions to discover more about your history and how you are functioning. They will also check you to determine if there are any medical conditions that could be causing your ADHD symptoms.
You can also get an adult adhd diagnosis through the NHS however, it could take a long time due to the logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for a private treatment or assessment via the "Right to Choose" pathway is easier. However it is crucial to be aware that the quality of care from private providers is a lot different and it is vital to select your provider with care.
Medication
It is recommended to undergo a thorough and full assessment if you are struggling with ADHD symptoms in adulthood. This will enable you to find the right medication and the assistance you need to manage symptoms. There are many private providers who offer this service. If you decide to choose one of them, it is essential to investigate the reputation of the psychiatrist, their education and experience in managing neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a lot of public figures have come out about their struggles with ADHD. For example, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s, and claimed that her diagnosis "made everything make sense". NHS waiting lists are full despite increased awareness.
Therefore, GPs are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services to confirm a diagnosis of ADHD. In part, this is because they lack the time, and in certain instances, they might not be able to locate a clinician who has expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, this is made worse by the fact that NHS staff are often tasked with other care requirements, such as mental health assessments.
There is also a perception that certain private providers of ADHD assessments are over-diagnosing adults with the condition, which can result in devastating consequences for certain people. This issue was brought up by the BBC Panorama program and there is a need to increase access to ADHD assessments.
Once you have a private diagnosis of ADHD, it is possible to treat the disorder by using the combination of behavioral therapy and medication. Stimulant drugs like amphetamine and methylphenidate can be utilized to improve concentration and control of impulses as well as slower-acting non-stimulants like atomoxetine are beneficial in improving concentration and productivity.
Certain patients choose only the behavioural approach, and do not need medication. However, for Recommended Web page who require medication, a post-diagnostic package of care can be created at Priory. This will include a comprehensive report as well as a titration for the final dose that can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD could have significant financial and human costs. This is why it's vital that a psychiatric assessment and treatment programme be accessible to all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication as well as practical and psychological support as well as family therapy if appropriate. This should include both workplace and family education on how to better support and manage an adult with ADHD.
The first step is an appointment with a mental health professional who is certified to assess ADHD or other conditions. Patients must bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health issues they have to the initial appointment. This appointment will review the patient's medical and mental health history, as well as their family history. It will also discuss the effects of ADHD on the individual's daily life and relationships.
During this process the doctor will check whether the symptoms are in line with the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must be present in two different settings of the person's daily life (either home or work). It should affect their normal functioning and cause significant distress or impairment. This could take the form of difficulties in getting a job, problems in marriage, or having to deal with financial issues, difficulties at school or in their overall quality of life.
There are a range of professionals who perform an assessment for ADHD that includes Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists are experts on how the brain works, but are not qualified to prescribe medications, therefore they can only suggest counselling. Psychologists are able to diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication when needed.
If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the patient with ADHD is in need of medication they will prescribe the medication and supply it to a local pharmacy. This is under the supervision of the psychiatrist and should be completed within three months from the private assessment to ensure that the patient is able to fully titrated into their final dosage of medication. If the GP accepts 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.
