ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
To give people a proper diagnosis for ADHD the NHS requires a thorough assessment. The BBC investigation found that some private clinics might be handing an unreliable diagnosis or prescribing the wrong medication.
A legitimate diagnosis of ADHD is based on the severity, number and duration of symptoms. The clinician will interview and analyze the patient's medical, mental health and family history.
Diagnosis
Adults with symptoms they believe could be ADHD should look for a diagnosis in order to find the right treatment and gain control of their lives. If they believe they suffer from ADHD, or if they have a family member or a friend who has suggested it, getting the diagnosis will aid in managing their symptoms.
Patients must first discuss their issues with an GP. They must inform them of their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. The GP will recommend them to a skilled mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be a psychiatrist who has completed specialized training in this field. This is crucial because it lets the psychiatrist be sure that they're applying the correct criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will interview the patient and often request their spouse, or close family members and friends who know them well. They will also have to take into account the patient's medical history as well as the psychiatric history, beginning from childhood. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they have affected the patient's life. There is no blood test or brain scan that can confirm the ADHD diagnosis, so the psychiatrist must evaluate all of the information available.
If the psychiatrist feels that the patient does not meet all the criteria for an ADHD diagnoses and will then be able to explain why. It could be because the patient did not provide enough information about their issues or another condition better explains their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's difficulties stem from something else, rather than ADHD.
Some people are unable to obtain a diagnosis due to the prejudices of certain healthcare professionals. This is particularly relevant if you're an individual of color, a woman at birth or don't speak English natively. However there is an increasing awareness of this issue and the NHS is trying to tackle the issue.
Assessment
If you suspect you may have ADHD or other disorders, you should be evaluated by a healthcare professional who has experience in such evaluations. You may ask your physician for a referral or check with the local medical schools or hospitals to determine which professionals are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You may also ask a local ADHD support group for recommendations.
A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the amount severity, duration and severity of symptoms that affect particular areas of your life. These can include school, work and relationships. You might experience issues with regards to not performing at work or education or in difficulty in maintaining and forming relationships and being forgetful or disorganized. It is crucial to discuss these issues and not be afraid to confront criticism.
There are many different healthcare professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultants psychiatrists. However, in order 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 private adhd assessment adults , you will be questioned. It is important to bring a family member to help or provide evidence. It is also helpful to note down your symptoms and how they have impacted your life. The doctor will ask you questions to collect details about your past and how you are doing. They will also check your body to determine if you have any medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms of ADHD.
You can also get an adult adhd private diagnosis through the NHS however it may take an extended time due to the long NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for private treatment and assessment through the "Right to Choose" option is more convenient. But it is essential to be aware that the quality of care from private providers is a lot different and it is crucial to choose your provider carefully.
Medication
If you've struggled with symptoms of ADHD in adulthood it is a great idea to have a complete and thorough assessment. This will help you get the right medication, and the support that you require to manage your symptoms. There are many private providers who offer this service. If you decide to choose one of them, it is crucial to investigate the reputation of the psychiatrist, their education and experience in managing neurodevelopmental disorders.
A high number of celebrities have been open about their struggles with ADHD in recent months. Sue Perkins, the host of the Great British Bake Off, was diagnosed with ADHD in her 50s. She stated that this diagnosis "made everything seem to make sense". However, despite the increasing awareness, NHS waiting lists remain overflowing with people who want a proper diagnosis and treatment.
In order to avoid this, GPs often hesitate to refer their patients to specialist services for an official ADHD diagnosis. This is due to the fact that they lack the time and in some instances they may not be able to locate a specialist with expertise in neurodevelopmental conditions. In some areas, the NHS personnel may be required to address other needs such as mental health assessments.
There is also a perception among some private providers of ADHD assessments are prone to over-diagnosing adults with the condition, and this can have devastating consequences for some people. This concern was raised by the BBC Panorama program and there is a pressing need to increase access to ADHD assessments.
If you've been diagnosed as having ADHD, you can treat it by combining behavioural therapy and medication. Stimulant drugs like amphetamine or methylphenidate can be used to improve focus and productivity, while non-stimulants that are slower-acting like atomoxetine can be effective in improving attention and impulse control.
Some patients only choose the behavioural approach, and do not need medication. However, for those who require medication, a post-diagnostic program of care can be put together at Priory. This includes a detailed medical report as well as a titration of the final dose, which could be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic care
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a significant one for both the human and financial costs. It is important to provide a psychiatric examination and treatment plan for all adults with ADHD. This should include medications, psychological and practical support and family therapy if needed. This should also include the workplace and family members on how to better manage and support an adult with ADHD in their daily life.
The first step is an interview with a mental healthcare professional who is qualified to assess ADHD or other disorders. Patients should bring a list of their symptoms as well as any other mental health concerns they may have to their first appointment. The interview will cover the patient's medical, mental health and family background. It will also look at the effects of ADHD on the person's daily life and relationships.
During this procedure, 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 manifest in two different environments (home or at work) of the individual's daily life. It must interfere with their normal functioning and cause distress or impairment. This can take the form of having difficulty finding a job, issues in marriage, or having to deal with finances, issues at school or in their overall level of living.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are experts on how the brain works however, they are not qualified to prescribe medications, so can only recommend counselling. Psychiatrists are fully qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and may prescribe medications if necessary.
If the Psychiatrist decides that the person suffering from ADHD is in need of medication, they will prescribe the medication and supply it to the local pharmacy. This is done under the supervision and direction by the Psychiatrist. The procedure should be completed within three months following the private assessment. This allows the patient to fully titrate into their final dosage of medication. If the GP is willing to continue NHS prescribing after the private ADHD assessment the Psychiatrist will provide them with a complete report and treatment recommendations and will draw up a Shared Care Agreement with the GP.