ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
For people to get a proper diagnosis for ADHD the NHS requires a thorough evaluation. The BBC investigation revealed that some private clinics may be giving an unreliable diagnosis or prescribing the wrong medication.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms and their severity, duration, and impact. The physician will interview the individual and examine the medical, psychiatric, family and personal background.
Diagnosis
Adults who experience symptoms that they believe may be ADHD should seek a diagnosis to find the right treatment and take control of their lives. Whether they have an instinct that they might be suffering from the condition, or have been told by a family member or friend that a member suggest that they might have it, obtaining the correct diagnosis can help them find the appropriate treatment and help to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
The first thing that patients must discuss their issues with a GP. Discuss your symptoms with them and how they impact your daily life. The GP will refer them to a seasoned mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has undergone specific training in the 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 ask the patient to bring their partner or close family members and friends who are familiar to them. They'll also have to look at the patient's medical and mental background from childhood to now. They will also take into account the severity of the symptoms and how they have affected the patient's lifestyle. A brain scan or blood test can't confirm an ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will have to consider all the available information.
If the psychiatrist does not feel that the patient meets all of the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis, they will explain the reasons. It could be that the patient did not provide enough information about their issues or another condition could be more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the doctor believes that the patient's difficulties are caused by something else and not due to the condition.
Certain people have a tougher time getting a proper diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain healthcare professionals. This is particularly true if you are an individual of color or a woman who was born or don't speak English natively. However there is a growing awareness of this problem and the NHS is working on tackling it.
The Assessment
If you suspect that you may be suffering from ADHD and are concerned, you should be evaluated by a health care provider who is experienced in these evaluations. You can ask your personal physician to recommend a specialist or check with local hospitals affiliated with universities or medical schools to see who is qualified 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 severity, duration and severity of symptoms that impact specific areas of your life. These include relationships, school and work. There are many reasons to be concerned about being unable to perform at school or at working, having difficulties making and maintaining relationships, or being unorganized or forgetful. It is essential to discuss these problems openly and not hide from the fear of being criticized.
There are many different healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultants psychiatrists. However, to officially recognize a diagnosis of ADHD it must be performed by a qualified Psychiatrist or Prescriber Certified Specialist Nurse. Only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD.
In the course of an ADHD assessment, you will be interviewed. It is important to bring a loved one with you to provide support or 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 there are any medical conditions which could be causing the symptoms of ADHD.
You can also obtain an adult adhd diagnosis through the NHS however it may take a long time due to the clogged NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for a private treatment or assessment via the "Right to Choose" option is more convenient. www.iampsychiatry.uk/private-adult-adhd-assessments/ is important to keep in mind that the quality and price of private care can vary greatly.
Medication
If you've been struggling with symptoms of ADHD as an adult, it is a good idea to have a complete and comprehensive assessment done. This will enable you to receive the correct medication and help you require to manage your symptoms. There are numerous private companies that offer this service but, if you choose to go this route it is essential to investigate the reputation of your selected psychiatrist, as well as their expertise and training in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders.
A lot of public figures 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". NHS waiting lists are still overcrowded despite the an increase in awareness.
As a result, doctors are usually reluctant to refer patients to specialist services for a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is partly because they do not have the time and in some cases, they may be unable to locate a specialist with experience in neurodevelopmental conditions. In some areas, this is further exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff are often assigned other requirements like mental health assessments.
Some people also believe that private companies offering ADHD assessments are too quick to diagnose people suffering from the condition. This can have devastating effects for certain. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue and there is a real need to improve access to specialized ADHD assessments.
If you've been given a personal diagnosis of ADHD, it is possible to treat the disorder with a combination of behavioural therapy and medication. Stimulant drugs like amphetamine and methylphenidate are used to improve concentration and productivity, whereas slower-acting non-stimulants like atomoxetine are effective in improving the ability to concentrate and control impulses.
Certain patients choose only treatment for behavioural issues 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 will include a thorough 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 have significant human and financial costs. This is why it is vital that a psychiatric examination and treatment program be made available to all adults with ADHD. This should include medication and practical and psychological assistance and family therapy, if needed. This should include family and workplace training on how to better assist and manage an adult suffering from 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 written list of their symptoms as well as any other mental health issues prior to their first appointment. This interview will review the patient's medical, mental health and family background. It will also examine the effects of ADHD on the person's daily life and relationships.
In this process, the doctor will verify that 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 evident in two places of the person's daily life (either home or work). It should affect the person's normal functioning, and cause a lot of distress. This can take the form a difficulty finding a job or dealing with marriage or finances or school issues, or in their overall quality of living.
There is a wide range of professionals that can perform an assessment for ADHD, including Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists are educated in the functioning of the brain, but they are not able to prescribe medication. They are able to provide counseling. Psychologists are able to diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication when needed.
If the Psychiatrist determines that the patient with ADHD requires medication, they will write a prescription and give it to a local pharmacy. This is done under the supervision of a doctor and must be completed within three months from the private assessment to ensure that the individual is able to fully titrated into their final dosage of medication. If the GP accepts to continue to prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD evaluation The Psychiatrist can write a detailed report with treatment recommendations. They can also draft a Shared Care Agreement.