ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that patients undergo a thorough assessment for an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation found that certain private clinics could provide inaccurate diagnoses and prescriptions.
A legitimate diagnosis for ADHD is determined by the severity, number of, duration and impact of symptoms. The doctor will interview the individual and go over the medical, psychiatric, family and personal background.
Diagnosis
Adults who have symptoms they believe might be ADHD should seek out a diagnosis to determine the best treatment and gain control of their life. If they suspect they may have ADHD or they have a family member or a friend who has suggested it, getting an assessment can aid in managing their symptoms.
Patients should first discuss their concerns with an GP. Discuss your symptoms with them and how they affect your daily life. The GP will refer them to an experienced mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be a seasoned psychiatrist who has had specific training in the field. This is important as it means that the psychiatrist will be confident that they have used the correct criteria for diagnosing ADHD.
The psychiatrist will talk to the patient and frequently ask them to bring in their partner, or close family members and friends who are familiar with them. They will also need to consider the patient's medical history as well as psychiatric past, starting from childhood. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and the effects on the patient's life. A brain scan or blood test cannot confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will have to take into account all available information available.
If the psychiatrist is of the opinion that the patient does not meet all the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and will then be able to explain why. It could be that the patient didn't give enough details about their difficulties or that another medical condition is more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be the case that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's issues are caused by something else and not the condition.
Some people have a harder to receive a correct diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain healthcare professionals. This is especially relevant if you're someone of color or a woman born or do not speak English natively. The NHS is trying its best to solve this issue.
The Assessment
If you're concerned that you might be suffering from ADHD you should get an assessment from a health healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting these assessments. You may ask your physician for a referral or check with the local medical schools or hospitals to find out who is qualified to conduct an ADHD assessment for adults. You could also seek a referral from an ADHD support group in your local area.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity and duration of the symptoms in particular areas of one's life. This could include school, work and relationships. There are many reasons to be concerned about not performing well in school or at work, having difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, or being unorganized or forgetful. It is crucial to talk about these issues openly and not be hesitant to speak out against the fear of being criticized.
There are many different healthcare professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment, from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To give a definitive diagnosis of ADHD it must be performed by a qualified Psychiatrist or a qualified Prescriber Special Nurse. Only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD.
You are usually questioned during an ADHD assessment and it is essential to bring along an adult family member to provide support or evidence. It is important to write down your symptoms, and how they impact your life. The doctor will ask you questions to find out more about your life experiences and how you are functioning. They will also check you to determine if there are any medical conditions that could be the cause of your ADHD symptoms.
The NHS can also offer an adult adhd diagnosis privately however, this could take a considerable amount of time due to the overflowing NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for a private treatment or assessment via the "Right to Choose" option is more convenient. It is important to remember that the quality and cost of private care can vary dramatically.
Medication
If you have been struggling with symptoms of ADHD as an adult it is a great idea to have a full and thorough assessment. This will allow you to receive the correct medication and the support that you need to manage symptoms. There are numerous private providers of this service. However, should you decide to go down this route it is essential to look into the reputation of the selected psychiatrist, as well as their training and experience in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders.
private adhd assessment 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 said that this diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". 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. This is partly because they do not have the time and in certain instances, they may be unable to locate a specialist with expertise in neurodevelopmental conditions. In certain areas, NHS staff might have to address other needs like mental health assessments.
There are those who believe that private companies offering ADHD assessments are unable to accurately diagnose those suffering from the condition. This can have devastating effects for some. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue and there is a real need to increase accessibility to specialist ADHD tests.
If you've been given a personal diagnosis of ADHD, it is possible to treat the disorder using the combination of behavioral therapy and medication. Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate and amphetamine can be used to boost concentration and control of impulses as well as slower-acting non-stimulants such as atomoxetine could be helpful in improving focus and productivity.
Some patients opt for the behavioural approach, and do not need medication. Priory can put together a post-diagnostic care package for those who require medication. This will include a comprehensive medical report as well as a titration of the final dosage, which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD may be accompanied by significant human and financial costs. It is crucial to conduct a psychiatric assessment and treatment plan for all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication, psychological and practical assistance and family therapy where appropriate. This should include both workplace and family information on how to best support and manage an adult suffering from ADHD.
The first step involves an interview with a mental health professional who is certified to evaluate ADHD or other disorders. Patients are required to bring a list with their symptoms as well as any other mental health concerns they have to the initial appointment. This interview will examine the patient's medical and mental health history, as well as their family history. It will also examine how the ADHD symptoms affect the person's daily life and relationships.
During this procedure the doctor will ensure that the symptoms meet the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must appear in two different environments (home or work) of the person's daily life. It must interfere with their normal functioning and cause significant distress or impairment. This may be in the form of difficulties in getting a job, problems in marriage, or having to deal with finances, problems at school or in their overall level of living.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are trained in the function of the brain, however they are not able to prescribe medication. They can only offer counseling. Psychologists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication when needed.
If the Psychiatrist determines that the patient with ADHD requires medication, he or she will write a prescription for a local pharmacist. This is under the supervision and direction of the Psychiatrist. It 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 accepts to continue NHS prescribing following the private ADHD assessment, the Psychiatrist will provide them with a a comprehensive report and treatment suggestions and will draft a Shared Care Agreement with the GP.