ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
In order for people to receive a proper diagnosis for ADHD the NHS requires a thorough examination. The BBC investigation highlighted that some private clinics could be handing out inaccurate diagnoses and prescriptions.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on symptoms, their severity, duration, and impact. The physician will interview the patient and examine the medical, psychiatric, family, and personal background.
Diagnosis
Adults who experience symptoms that they believe could be ADHD should seek out a diagnosis to determine the right treatment and take control of their life. If they believe they suffer from ADHD, or if a family member or friend has suggested it, getting the diagnosis will aid in managing their symptoms.
The first thing patients must do is discuss their concerns with an GP. They must inform them of their symptoms and how they affect their daily life. The GP will then refer them to a specialist mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be a seasoned psychiatrist who has undergone specific training in the field. This is important as it means that the psychiatrist will be sure that they are using the correct criteria for diagnosing ADHD.
The psychiatrist will interview the patient and may will ask them to bring their spouse or close family members and friends who are familiar with them. They'll also have to consider the patient's medical and mental background from childhood to now. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and the impact on the patient's life. A brain scan or blood test will not confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need to take into account all available information.
If the psychiatrist believes that the patient doesn't meet all the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis the psychiatrist will explain their reasoning. It could be that the patient hasn't given sufficient detail about their difficulties, or it might be that another condition explains their behavior more effectively than ADHD. It could also be that the doctor believes that the patient's issues are due to something else, rather than ADHD.
Certain people have a tougher in obtaining a diagnosis due to the prejudices of certain healthcare experts. This is especially the case if they are a person of colour or a woman born at birth or not a native English speaker. However there is a growing awareness of this problem and the NHS is working on tackling it.
The Assessment
If you are concerned you might have ADHD you should seek an evaluation from a health healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting such assessments. You could ask your doctor to refer you 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 for a referral from an ADHD support group in your area.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the amount, severity and duration of symptoms in certain areas of your life. These include school, relationships and work. You might experience issues that result in you not performing at work or education as well as difficulties in maintaining and forming relationships and being forgetful or disorganized. It is crucial to talk about these problems openly and not hold back from the fear of being criticized.
There are a variety of healthcare professionals that are able to conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. However, in order to be able to give a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD the assessment must be performed by a qualified Psychiatrist or a Prescriber qualified specialist nurse. This is because only a psychiatrist can prescribe medication for the treatment of ADHD.
You are typically questioned during an ADHD assessment, and it is important to bring someone from your family to offer support or to show evidence. It is beneficial to write the symptoms you experience and how they impact your life. The doctor will ask questions to learn about your past and how you are functioning. They will also check your body to determine if there are any medical conditions that could be causing the symptoms of ADHD.
The NHS can also offer an adult adhd diagnosis that is private however, this could take a very long time due to the backed up NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for a private treatment and evaluation through the "Right to Choose" route is simpler. However it is essential to remember that the quality of treatment offered by private providers is a lot different and it is vital to choose your provider carefully.
Medication
It is beneficial to have a thorough and complete assessment if you are experiencing ADHD symptoms in adulthood. This will allow you to get the correct medication and help you require to manage your symptoms. There are a variety of private providers that offer this service. If you decide to use one of them, it is crucial to research the reputation of the psychiatrist, their education and experience dealing neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a number of prominent people have come out about their struggles with ADHD. Sue Perkins, the host of Great British Bake Off, was diagnosed with ADHD in her 50s. She claimed that the diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". However, despite increasing awareness, NHS waiting lists remain overflowing with people wanting to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.
In the end, GPs are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services in the event of a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is largely because they lack the time, and in some cases they may not be able find a clinician who has expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders. In some areas, this is made worse by the fact that NHS staff may be being tasked with other health needs such as 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 consequences for some. private adhd assessments was brought up by the BBC Panorama program and there is a need to improve access for ADHD tests.
If you've been diagnosed as having ADHD it is possible to treat it using a combination treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant drugs such as amphetamine or methylphenidate can be utilized to boost concentration and productivity, whereas non-stimulants with a slower onset like atomoxetine are effective in improving attention and impulse control.
Some patients only choose behavioural therapy, and do not need medication. Priory can create a post-diagnostic treatment package for patients who require medication. This will include a comprehensive medical report, as well as a titration for the final dosage, which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can have significant human and financial costs. It is essential to conduct a psychiatric assessment and treatment plan for all adults with ADHD. This should include medication and practical and psychological assistance as well as family therapy, if needed. This should include workplace and family information on how to best help and manage an adult with ADHD.
The first step is an interview with an expert in mental health care who is certified to evaluate ADHD and related conditions. Patients should bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health concerns they have to the initial appointment. The interview will go over the patient's medical, psychiatric, and family history. It will also look at the impact of ADHD on the person's everyday life and relationships.
In this process the doctor will ensure that the symptoms are in line with the criteria for ADHD that are defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must be evident in two places of the person's daily 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 keeping a job, trouble with marriage or coping with financial issues, difficulties at school or in their overall level of living.
There is a wide range of professionals who conduct an assessment for ADHD that includes Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists are educated in the functioning of the brain, but they are not able to prescribe medication. They can only offer advice. Psychologists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication when required.
If the Psychiatrist decides that the patient with ADHD requires medication, they will write a prescription for local pharmacists. This is done under the supervision of a doctor and must be completed within three months of the private assessment to ensure that the patient is able to fully titrated into their final dosage 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 can also draft an agreement known as a Shared Care Agreement.