ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
To give people an accurate diagnosis of ADHD the NHS requires a thorough assessment. The BBC investigation highlighted that some private clinics may provide unreliable diagnoses and inappropriate medication.
A legitimate diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity, duration and impact of symptoms. The doctor will interview the patient and review the medical, psychiatric, family and personal history.
Diagnosis
Adults with symptoms they believe might be ADHD should seek out a diagnosis to determine the right treatment and gain control of their life. If they feel that they might have the disorder, or have had a family or friend member suggest they might be suffering from it, obtaining the correct diagnosis can help them discover the treatments and support to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
Patients should first discuss their concerns with the GP. They should tell them about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. The doctor will recommend them to a skilled mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist must be one who has completed specialist training in this field. This is important as it means that the psychiatrist will be confident that they are using the correct criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will talk to the patient and often will ask them to bring their partner, or close friends and relatives who are familiar with them. They will also have to take into account the patient's medical history and mental health history, starting from childhood. private adhd assessment uk will also take into consideration the severity of the symptoms and their impact on the patient's daily life. A brain scan or blood test will not confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need take into consideration all available information.
If the psychiatrist does not feel that the patient meets all the criteria required for an ADHD diagnosis, they will explain why. It could be because the patient didn't give enough details about their difficulties or that another condition better explains their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the therapist believes that the patient's problems stem from something else, rather than ADHD.
Some people have a difficult to receive a correct diagnosis due to the prejudices of some healthcare experts. This is especially the case when they are an individual of color, assigned female at birth, or are not an English speaking. However there is an increasing awareness of this problem and the NHS is working on tackling it.
Assessment
If you are concerned you might have ADHD you should seek an assessment from a health healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting these assessments. You may ask your physician for a referral or consult with local hospitals affiliated with universities or medical schools to find out the professionals who are certified to perform an ADHD assessment for adults. You may also ask for a referral from an ADHD support group in your area.
A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the amount of, severity and duration of symptoms that impact specific areas of your life. These can include school, work and relationships. There are times when you may face problems with regards to not performing at work or education as well as difficulties in maintaining and forming relationships, or being forgetful or disorganized. It is crucial to talk about these issues in a candid manner and not be hesitant to speak out against the fear of being criticized.
There are a myriad of healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment, from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To make a formal diagnosis of ADHD it should be carried out either by a qualified Psychiatrist or a qualified Prescriber Special Nurse. Only a Psychiatrist can prescribe medication for ADHD.
You are typically questioned during an ADHD assessment and it is essential to bring someone from your family to offer support or evidence. It is also beneficial to write down your symptoms and how they have impacted your life. The doctor will ask 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 which could be causing the symptoms of ADHD.
The NHS can also offer an adult adhd diagnosis that is private however this could take a long time due to the overflowing NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for private treatment and assessment through the "Right to Choose" pathway is easier. It is important to remember that the cost and quality of private healthcare can differ dramatically.
Medication
It is a good thing to have a thorough and complete assessment if you are struggling with ADHD symptoms into adulthood. This will enable you to receive the correct medication and help you require to manage your symptoms. There are many private providers of this service, but if you choose to pursue this option it is crucial to research the reputation of the chosen psychiatrist and the level of their expertise and training in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a variety of celebrities have opened up about their struggles with ADHD. Sue Perkins, the host of the Great British Bake Off, was diagnosed with ADHD in her 50s. She said that this diagnosis "made everything seem to make sense". NHS waiting lists are crowded despite an increase in awareness.
To avoid this, doctors frequently hesitate to refer their patients to specialist services to obtain a private ADHD diagnosis. This is partly because they lack the time and in some instances they may not be able to locate a doctor with experience in neurodevelopmental conditions. In certain areas, the NHS staff may have to address other needs such as mental health assessments.
There is also a perception that certain private companies that offer ADHD assessments are over-diagnosing adults with the condition, which can cause severe harm to some people. This concern was raised by the BBC Panorama program and there is a need to improve access for ADHD assessments.
Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD, you can treat it by combining treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate and amphetamine can be used to enhance the ability to control impulses and attention, while slower acting non-stimulants such as atomoxetine could be beneficial in improving focus and productivity.
Some patients prefer to utilize behavioural therapy and do not require medication. For those who need to take medication, a post-diagnostic plan of care can be put together at Priory. This includes a detailed medical report as well as a titration of 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. It is important to provide a psychiatric examination and treatment plan for all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication, psychological and practical support and therapy for families if it is appropriate. This should include both workplace and family information on how to best help and manage an adult with ADHD.
The first step is an interview with a mental health professional who is qualified to assess ADHD or other conditions. Patients must bring a list of their symptoms as well as any other mental health issues they have to the initial appointment. This interview will review the patient's medical, mental health and family background. It will also look at the effects of ADHD on the person's everyday life and relationships.
During this process the doctor will ensure that the symptoms are in line with the criteria for ADHD defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom has to be present in two places of the individual's life (either at home or at work). It must interfere with their normal functioning and cause distress or impairment. This can take the form of difficulties in getting a job, problems with marriage, or dealing with financial issues, difficulties at school or in their overall quality of life.
There is a wide range of professionals who carry out an assessment for ADHD that includes Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists are experts on how the brain functions however they are not able to prescribe medications, therefore they can only recommend counselling. Psychologists are qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD, and can offer medication if needed.
If the Psychiatrist determines that the person has ADHD requires medication, he or she will write a prescription for local pharmacists. This is under the supervision of the Psychiatrist and must be completed within three months of the private assessment to ensure that the individual has time to be fully adjusted to their final dose of medication. If the GP agrees that they will continue to prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD evaluation The Psychiatrist can provide a comprehensive report that includes treatment recommendations. They will also prepare the Shared Care Agreement.