ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
For people to get an accurate diagnosis for ADHD, the NHS requires a thorough examination. The BBC investigation revealed that some private clinics may be giving out unreliable diagnosis and inappropriate medication.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on symptoms and their severity, duration, and impact. The doctor will interview and analyze the patient's medical, psychiatric and family background.
Diagnosis
For adults who feel they are suffering from symptoms that could be connected to ADHD and are seeking a diagnosis, it is the first step in finding treatment and gaining control over their lives. If they suspect they may have ADHD, or if someone in their family or a friend has suggested it, obtaining an assessment can help them manage their symptoms.
The first thing patients must do is discuss their concerns with the GP. They must inform them of their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. The doctor will refer them to an expert mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be psychiatrist who has completed specialist training in this field. This is crucial since it means that the psychiatrist can be sure that they are using the correct criteria for diagnosing ADHD.
The psychiatrist will conduct an interview with the patient and frequently will ask them to bring their partner, or close family members and friends who are familiar with them. private adhd assessment adults will also need to consider the patient's medical and psychiatric history from childhood onwards. They will also be looking at the severity of the symptoms and the effects on the patient's life. There isn't a brain scan or blood test that can be used to confirm an ADHD diagnosis The psychiatrist will have to evaluate all the available information.
If the psychiatrist believes that the patient does not meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnoses the psychiatrist will be able to explain why. It could be because the patient hasn't given sufficient detail about their difficulties or that a different condition is responsible for their behaviour better than ADHD. It could also be that the therapist believes that the patient's problems result from something else and not ADHD.
Some people have a harder to receive a correct diagnosis because of 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 a growing awareness of this issue and the NHS is trying to tackle the issue.
The Assessment
If you're concerned that you might be suffering from ADHD you should get an assessment from a health care professional who is experienced in conducting these assessments. You can ask your personal physician for a referral or consult with local university-based hospitals or medical schools to determine who is qualified to perform 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 severity, number and duration of symptoms in specific areas of your life. These include relationships, school and work. You may have problems with being unable to perform at school or at work, or having trouble creating and maintaining relationships or being forgetful or unorganised. It is important to address these issues and not be afraid of criticism.
There are many different healthcare professionals that are able to 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 Prescriber Qualified Special Nurse. This is because only a psychiatrist can prescribe medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
In the course of an ADHD assessment, you will be questioned. It is crucial to bring a family member to help or provide evidence. It is beneficial to write your symptoms and how they impact your life. The doctor will ask you questions to gather details about your past and current condition. They will also look at your body to determine if you have any medical conditions that could be causing the symptoms of ADHD.
The NHS can also provide an adult adhd diagnosis privately however, this could take a long time because of the long NHS waiting lists. Some people find it easier to pay out of their own pocket for a private assessment and treatment through the 'Right To Choose option. It is important to keep in mind that the cost and quality of private care can vary greatly.
Medication
It is a good thing to get a comprehensive and thorough assessment if struggle with ADHD symptoms into adulthood. This will help you get the right medication and help you require to manage your symptoms. There are numerous private companies that offer this service. However, should you decide to go this route it is essential to look into the reputation of the chosen psychiatrist and their expertise and training in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders.
A high number 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 to make sense". But, despite increased awareness, NHS waiting lists remain jam-packed with people who want an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Therefore, doctors are usually reluctant to refer patients to specialist services for a private diagnosis of ADHD. In part, this is because they lack the time or resources, and in some cases they may not be able to locate a specialist who is knowledgeable in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, this is exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff may be tasked with other care requirements, like mental health assessments.
Many people believe that private companies offering ADHD assessments are too quick to diagnose people suffering from the condition. This can have devastating consequences for some. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue and there is a pressing need to improve access to specialized ADHD tests.
If you've been given a personal diagnosis of ADHD it is possible to treat the disorder with the combination of treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant medications like amphetamine and methylphenidate can be used to improve concentration and productivity, whereas non-stimulants that are slower-acting like atomoxetine can be useful for improving your attention and impulse control.
Some patients prefer to use behavioural therapy and do not require 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 for the final dose, which could be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can have significant human and financial costs. It is essential to provide a psychiatric evaluation and treatment plan for all adults with ADHD. This should include medications as well as psychological and practical support and family therapy if needed. This should include workplace and family training on how to better assist and manage an adult suffering from ADHD.
The first step is an interview with a mental healthcare professional who is qualified to assess ADHD or other conditions. Patients must bring a written list of their symptoms and any other mental health concerns prior to their first appointment. The interview will cover the patient's medical, psychiatric, and family history. It will also examine the impact of ADHD on the person's daily life and relationships.
During this process the doctor will check 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 appear in two different settings (home or work) of the person's daily life. It must interfere with their normal functioning and result in significant distress or impairment. This can be in the form of a problem finding a job or coping with finances or marriage or school problems, or in their general quality of life.
There is a wide range of professionals who can perform an assessment for ADHD that includes Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists are educated in the functioning of the brain, however they cannot prescribe medication. They are able to provide advice. Psychologists are qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and may prescribe medication if needed.
If the Psychiatrist decides that the patient with ADHD is in need of medication they will prescribe the medication and send it to a local pharmacy. This is done under the supervision and guidance of the Psychiatrist, and is expected to be completed within three months from the private assessment. This allows the patient to fully adjust their final dosage of medication. If the GP accepts to continue NHS prescribing after the private ADHD assessment, the Psychiatrist will provide them with a a comprehensive report and treatment recommendations and will draft a Shared Care Agreement with the GP.