ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that people undergo a thorough examination in order to get the correct ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation found that certain private clinics might be distributing inaccurate diagnoses and prescriptions.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms and their severity, duration, and impact. The physician will interview the individual and review the medical, psychiatric, family, and personal history.
Diagnosis
Adults who have symptoms they believe may be ADHD should look for a diagnosis in order to find the best treatment and control their life. Whether they have an instinct that they might be suffering from the condition, or have had a family or friend member suggest they might be suffering from it, obtaining the correct diagnosis can allow them to find the treatment and support needed to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
Patients should first discuss their concerns with an GP. They must inform them of their symptoms and how they impact their daily life. The GP will then direct them to an expert mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist must be one who has undergone specialist training in this field. This is important because it allows the psychiatrist to be confident that they're applying the correct criteria to determine ADHD.
The psychiatrist will interview the patient and may ask them to bring in their spouse, or close relatives and friends who know them well. They'll also have to consider the patient's medical and mental history from childhood onwards. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they have impacted the patient's lifestyle. A brain scan or blood test will not confirm an ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will have take into consideration all available information.
If the psychiatrist does not think that the patient is meeting all the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and they explain the reasons. It could be that the patient didn't provide sufficient information about their issues or another medical condition is more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the therapist believes that the patient's difficulties result from something else rather than ADHD.
Some people have a harder to receive a correct diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain healthcare medical professionals. This can be especially the case if they're a person of colour or assigned a female birth or not a native English native speaker. However there is an increasing awareness of this problem and the NHS is working to address the issue.
Assessment
If you are concerned that you might have ADHD you should get an evaluation from a health care professional who has experience in conducting these tests. You may ask your physician for a recommendation or check with local hospitals affiliated with universities or medical schools to determine which professionals are qualified to conduct an ADHD evaluation for adults. You may also ask an individual from your local ADHD support group for a referral.
A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the number of, severity and duration of symptoms that affect specific areas of your life. These could include school, work and relationships. There are times when you may face problems with regards to not performing in school or work as well as difficulties in maintaining and forming relationships and being forgetful or disorganised. It is essential to talk about these problems and not be afraid to confront criticism.
There are a myriad of healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultants psychiatrists. However, to be able to give a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD the assessment must be conducted by a qualified Psychiatrist or Prescriber qualified specialist nurse. Only a Psychiatrist is qualified to prescribe medication for ADHD.
In an ADHD assessment, you will be questioned. It is crucial to bring a family member with you to provide support or evidence. It is important to write down your symptoms, and how they affect your life. The doctor will ask you questions to collect details about your past and how you are doing. They will also look at your body to determine if there are any medical conditions that may cause the symptoms of ADHD.
The NHS can also offer an adult adhd diagnosis that is private, but this can take a very long time because of the backed up NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for a private treatment and evaluation through the "Right to Choose" pathway is easier. But, it is important to keep in mind that the quality of treatment offered by private providers is a lot different and that it is essential to select your provider with care.
Medication
If you've been struggling with symptoms of ADHD in your adulthood it is a good idea to have a full and thorough evaluation done. This will enable you to find the right medication and the support that you require to manage the symptoms. There are helpful hints who offer this service. If you choose to go with one of them, it is essential to investigate the reputation of the psychiatrist, their training, and their experience in treating neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a lot of prominent people have spoken out about their struggles with ADHD. For instance, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s, and claimed that her diagnosis "made everything make sense". However, despite an increase in awareness, NHS waiting lists remain jam-packed with people wanting to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
In order to avoid this, GPs often are reluctant to refer patients to specialist services to obtain an individual ADHD diagnosis. This is mainly because they do not have the time and in certain instances they may not be able to locate a doctor with experience in neurodevelopmental conditions. In some areas, the NHS staff might have to handle other requirements such as mental health assessments.
There is also a perception that some private companies offering ADHD assessments are over-diagnosing adults with the condition, and this can result in devastating consequences for certain people. This concern was raised by the BBC Panorama program and there is a need to improve accessibility for ADHD assessments.
Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD it is possible to treat it using a combination behavioural therapy and medication. Stimulant drugs such as amphetamine and methylphenidate can be utilized to boost focus and productivity, while non-stimulants with a slower onset like atomoxetine are beneficial for improving the ability to concentrate and control impulses.
Certain patients choose only treatment for behavioural issues, and do not need medication. For those who require medication, a post-diagnostic package of care can be formulated at Priory. This will include a comprehensive medical report, as well as a titration for the final dose, which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic care
A diagnosis of ADHD can result in significant human and financial costs. This is why it's crucial that a psychiatric evaluation and treatment programme be made available to all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication as well as practical and psychological assistance, as well as family therapy if appropriate. 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 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 examine the patient's medical and psychiatric history as well as their family history. It will also examine how ADHD symptoms affect the individual's daily life and relationships.
During this examination, the doctor will ensure 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 settings of the person's life (either at home or at work). It must affect their normal functioning and cause significant distress or impairment. This can take the form of having difficulty getting a job, problems with marriage, or dealing with finances, problems at school or in their overall level of living.
There are a range of professionals who can conduct an assessment for ADHD, including Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists are trained in the function of the brain, but they cannot prescribe medication. They are able to provide counselling. Psychiatrists are fully qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and offer medications if necessary.
If the Psychiatrist decides that the person has ADHD needs medication, they will prescribe a prescription to a local pharmacist. This is done under the supervision and direction of the Psychiatrist, and should be completed within three months after 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 present them with a an extensive report and treatment suggestions and will create a Shared Care Agreement with the GP.