ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that patients undergo a thorough evaluation in order to receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics could be handing out inaccurate diagnoses and prescriptions.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on symptoms and their severity, duration, and impact. The physician will interview and examine the patient's medical, psychiatric and family background.
Diagnosis
If you are an adult who believes that you are suffering from symptoms that could be associated with ADHD, getting a diagnosis is the first step in finding a treatment and gaining control of their lives. If they believe they suffer from ADHD, or if someone in their family or a friend has suggested it, getting the diagnosis will aid them in managing their symptoms.
The first thing patients should discuss their issues with a GP. Inform them of your symptoms and how they affect your daily routine. The doctor will recommend them to an expert mental health professional who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist is one who has completed specialist training in this field. This is important as it means that the psychiatrist can be sure that they are using the right criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will request that the patient bring their spouse or close family members and acquaintances who are familiar with them. They must also 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 the impact on the patient's life. A brain scan or blood test will not confirm an ADHD diagnosis. private adhd assessment will have to consider all the available information.
If the psychiatrist feels that the patient does not meet all the criteria for an ADHD diagnoses, they will explain their reasoning. It could be because the patient didn't 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 are due to something else, and not ADHD.
Some people have a difficult to receive a correct diagnosis due to the prejudices of some healthcare medical professionals. This is especially the case when they are an individual of color, assigned female at birth or not a native English speaking. However, there is a growing awareness of this problem and the NHS is working to address the issue.
Assessment
If you are concerned you might have ADHD you should get an evaluation from a health care professional who is experienced in conducting these assessments. You can ask your doctor to recommend a specialist or check at local universities' hospitals or medical schools to see the professionals who are certified to conduct an ADHD evaluation for adults. You can also request 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 affect specific areas of your life. These include relationships, school and work. There are times when you may face problems that result in you not performing in school or work as well as difficulties in maintaining and forming relationships, and being unorganized or disorganised. It is crucial to talk about these issues in a candid manner and not hide from the fear of being criticized.
From GPs to psychiatrists who consult, there are many healthcare professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment. However, in order to be able to give a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD the assessment must be conducted by a qualified Psychiatrist or a Prescriber qualified specialist nurse. Only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD.
You are usually questioned during an ADHD evaluation and it is essential to bring along an adult family member to provide support or to show evidence. It is beneficial to write your symptoms and how they impact your life. The doctor will ask questions to learn about your life experiences and present functioning. They will also check your body to determine if you have any medical conditions which could be causing symptoms of ADHD.
The NHS can also provide a private adult adhd diagnosis, but this can take a very long time due to 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. However it is essential to keep in mind that the quality of care offered by private practitioners varies widely and it is vital that you choose carefully.
Medication
If you've been struggling with symptoms of ADHD as an adult it is a good idea to have a full and thorough evaluation done. This will help you get the correct medication and assistance you require to manage your symptoms. There are numerous private providers of this service, but should you decide to pursue this option, it is important to look into the reputation of your selected psychiatrist, as well as their expertise and training in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders.
A high number 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 more rational". NHS waiting lists are still crowded despite increasing awareness.
Therefore, doctors are usually reluctant to refer patients to specialist services to confirm a diagnosis of ADHD. In part, this is because they lack the time, and in certain cases, they may not be able to locate a specialist who is knowledgeable in neurodevelopmental disorders. In some areas, the NHS staff might have to address other needs like mental health assessments.
There is also a perception that certain private companies offering ADHD assessments are over-diagnosing adults with the condition, which could result in devastating consequences for certain people. The BBC Panorama programme raised this concern and there is a dire need to increase accessibility to specialist ADHD assessments.
If you've been given a personal diagnosis of ADHD, it is possible to treat the disorder by using a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. Stimulant drugs such as amphetamine and methylphenidate are employed to increase concentration and productivity, whereas non-stimulants that are slower-acting like atomoxetine can be beneficial for improving the ability to concentrate and control impulses.
Certain patients choose only behavioural therapy and do not require medication. Priory can create a post-diagnostic treatment package for those who require medication. This will include a thorough 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 may be accompanied by significant human and financial costs. It is crucial to provide a psychiatric examination and treatment plan for all adults with ADHD. This should include medication as well as psychological and practical support and family therapy if needed. This should also extend to the workplace and family members on how to better manage and support an adult with ADHD in their daily lives.
The first step is to schedule an interview with a mental health professional who is certified to assess ADHD or other disorders. Patients must bring a list of their symptoms and 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 how ADHD symptoms affect the individual's daily functioning and how they affect their relationships.
During this examination, 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 settings (home or at work) of the individual's daily life. It should interfere with the person's normal functioning and cause significant distress. This can take the form of having difficulty keeping a job, trouble in marriage, or having to deal with finances, problems at school or in their overall level of living.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are trained in the function of the brain, however they cannot prescribe medication. They can only provide counselling. Psychiatrists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication if required.
If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the person suffering from ADHD is in need of medication they will prescribe the medication and give it to the local pharmacy. This is done under the supervision and direction of the Psychiatrist. It is expected to be completed within three months after the private assessment. This will allow the individual to fully titrate into their final dosage of medication. If the GP agrees to continue NHS prescribing following the private ADHD assessment the Psychiatrist will present them with a an extensive report and treatment recommendations, and will draw up a Shared Care Agreement with the GP.