ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
In order for people to receive an accurate diagnosis for ADHD the NHS requires a thorough assessment. The BBC investigation revealed that some private clinics could be giving out unreliable diagnosis and inappropriate treatment.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on symptoms and their severity, duration and impact. The doctor will interview the individual and examine the medical, psychiatric, family, and personal background.
Diagnosis
Adults who have symptoms they believe may be ADHD should seek out a diagnosis to determine the right treatment and control their life. If they are aware that they might be suffering from the condition, or have been told by a family member or friend that a member suggest they might be suffering from it, obtaining the right diagnosis can help them discover the appropriate treatment and help to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
Patients must first discuss their issues with an GP. They should tell them about their symptoms and how they impact their daily lives. The doctor will refer them to an expert mental health professional who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be an experienced psychiatrist who has undergone specialist training in the area. This is important as it means that the psychiatrist will be certain that they have used the correct criteria for diagnosing ADHD.
The psychiatrist will interview the patient and may will ask them to bring their spouse, or close friends and relatives who are familiar with them. They must also take into account the patient's medical history and mental health history, starting from childhood. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they have impacted the patient's life. There isn't a brain scan or blood test that can be used to confirm an ADHD diagnosis Therefore, the psychiatrist must evaluate all the available information.
If the psychiatrist doesn't believe that the patient meets all of the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and they explain why. It could be because the patient didn't give enough details about their problems or another condition better explains their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the doctor believes that the patient's difficulties are due to something else, and not ADHD.
Some people find it harder to get a proper diagnosis because of the prejudices espoused by certain healthcare professionals. This is especially the case if they are a person of colour or a woman born at birth or not a native English speaker. The NHS is working hard to address this issue.
The Assessment
If you are concerned you might have ADHD you should seek an evaluation from a health care professional who has experience in conducting such assessments. You can ask your doctor to recommend a specialist or check with local hospitals affiliated with universities or medical schools to see the professionals who are certified to perform an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also request a referral from an ADHD support group in your area.
A diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity and duration of symptoms that impact specific areas of your life. private adhd assessment can include work, school and relationships. There are times when you may face problems 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 address these issues and not be afraid of criticism.
From GPs and consultant psychiatrists, there are many healthcare professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment. However, to provide a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD the assessment must be done by a qualified Psychiatrist, or a Prescriber Qualified Specialist Nurse. This is because only a Psychiatrist can prescribe medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
You are usually questioned during an ADHD assessment and it is crucial to bring along a family member for assistance or to provide evidence. It is beneficial to write the symptoms you experience and how they impact your life. The doctor will ask questions to gather information about your background and your current functioning. They will also conduct an examination to determine if there are any medical conditions that may be responsible for your ADHD symptoms.
The NHS can also offer a private adult adhd diagnosis however this could take a long time due to the backed up NHS waiting lists. Some people find it easier to pay out of their own pockets for a private assessment and treatment via the 'Right to Choice option. But it is crucial to remember that the quality of care from private practitioners varies widely and that it is essential to choose your provider carefully.
Medication
If you have been struggling with symptoms of ADHD in your adulthood it is a great idea to have a full and comprehensive assessment done. This will allow you to get the correct medication and help you require to manage your symptoms. There are a variety of private companies that offer this service but, if you choose to pursue this option it is crucial to research the reputation of your chosen psychiatrist and the level of their training and experience in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders.
A large number of public figures have spoken out 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 said that this diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". NHS waiting lists are full despite increasing awareness.
In order to avoid this, doctors frequently hesitate to refer their patients to specialist services for a private ADHD diagnosis. This is largely because they don't have the time, and in certain cases, they may not be able to find an expert clinician in neurodevelopmental disorders. In some areas, this is further exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff are often tasked with other care requirements such as mental health assessments.
There are those who believe that private companies offering ADHD assessments over-diagnose adults with the condition. This could result in devastating consequences for some. This issue was brought up by the BBC Panorama program and there is an urgent need to increase access to ADHD assessments.
If you've been given a personal diagnosis of ADHD, it is possible to treat the disorder using a combination of treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. The stimulant medications like amphetamine and methylphenidate are utilized to improve the ability to control impulses and attention, while slower acting non-stimulants like atomoxetine are beneficial in improving concentration and productivity.
Some patients opt for treatment for behavioural issues, and do not need medication. For those who need to take medication, a post-diagnostic package of care can be put together at Priory. This will include a comprehensive medical report, as well as a titration for the final dose, which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD may have significant financial and human costs. It is essential to provide a psychiatric evaluation and treatment program for all adults with ADHD. This should include medications, psychological and practical support and family therapy if needed. This should also include family and workplace education about how to better manage and support an adult with ADHD in their daily lives.
The first step involves an interview with a mental health professional who is certified to evaluate ADHD or other issues. Patients are required to bring a written list of their symptoms as well as any other mental health issues prior to their first appointment. The interview will go over the patient's medical, psychiatric and family history. It will also look at how the ADHD symptoms impact the patient's daily life and relationships.
During this procedure, the doctor will check that the symptoms are consistent with the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must be present in two different settings of the individual's life (either at home or at work). It should affect the person's normal functioning, and cause distress. This can take the form of difficulties in keeping a job, trouble with marriage or coping with finances, issues at school or in their overall level of living.
There are a range of professionals that can conduct an assessment for ADHD that includes Psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychologists understand how the brain functions however, they are not qualified to prescribe medication, and can only suggest counselling. Psychologists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication if required.
If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the person suffering from ADHD requires medication they will write a prescription and supply it to a local pharmacy. This is under the supervision of a Psychiatrist and should be completed within three months after the private assessment to ensure that the person has time to be fully titrated into their final dosage of medication. If the GP agrees that they will continue prescribing ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD evaluation The Psychiatrist can provide a comprehensive report that includes treatment recommendations. They can also prepare an agreement known as a Shared Care Agreement.