ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that people undergo a thorough examination in order to get the correct ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics could be giving out unreliable diagnosis and inappropriate medication.
A legitimate diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the severity, number and duration of symptoms. The clinician will interview the patient and examine the medical or psychiatric history, as well as family and personal background.
Diagnosis
For adults who feel they are suffering from symptoms that could be associated with ADHD being diagnosed is a key step to getting treatment and taking control over their lives. If they feel they have ADHD, or if a family member or friend has suggested it, obtaining the diagnosis will aid in managing their symptoms.
The first thing patients need to discuss their concerns with a GP. Discuss your symptoms with them and how they affect your daily routine. The doctor will refer them to an experienced mental health professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be one who has undergone specialist training in this area. This is crucial since it means that the psychiatrist can be confident that they have used the correct criteria for diagnosing ADHD.
The psychiatrist will conduct an interview with the patient and may request their partner, or close family members and friends who know them well. They will also have to consider the patient's medical history and psychiatric past, starting from childhood. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they have impacted the patient's lifestyle. A brain scan or blood test cannot confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need to consider all the available information available.
If the psychiatrist does not think that the patient is meeting all the criteria required for an ADHD diagnosis the psychiatrist will explain the reasons. It could be that the patient didn't give enough details about their issues or another medical condition is more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be the case that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's problems are caused by something else and not due to the condition.
Some people find it harder to get a proper diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain healthcare experts. This is especially the case if you're an individual of color, a woman at birth or don't speak English natively. However, there is a growing awareness of the issue and the NHS is working to address the issue.
The Assessment
If you are concerned that you might be suffering from ADHD you should get an evaluation from a health care professional who has experience in conducting these tests. You can ask your doctor to recommend a specialist or check at local universities' hospitals or medical schools to see who is qualified to conduct an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also ask a local ADHD support group for recommendations.
A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the number of, severity and duration of symptoms that affect particular areas of your life. This could include work, school and relationships. You may have problems with underachieving in school or work, having difficulty creating and maintaining relationships or being forgetful or unorganised. It is crucial to discuss these issues and not be afraid of criticism.
There are a variety of healthcare professionals that can carry out an ADHD assessment, from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To make a formal diagnosis of ADHD it must be done either by a Psychiatrist who is qualified, or a Special Nurse who is a Prescriber Qualified. Only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD.
In an ADHD assessment, you will be interviewed. It is essential to bring a loved one to help or provide evidence. It is also helpful to write down your symptoms and how they've affected your life. The doctor will ask you questions to find out more about your history and how you are functioning. They will also check your body to determine if you have any medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms of ADHD.
You can also access an adult adhd diagnosis through the NHS however it may take some time due to the clogged NHS waiting lists. Some people find it easier to pay out of their own pocket for private assessments and treatments through the 'Right To Choose route. However it is essential to keep in mind that the quality of care from private providers is a lot different and that it is essential to select your provider with care.
Medication
It is a good thing to undergo a thorough and complete assessment if you are experiencing ADHD symptoms as you age. This will allow you to get the correct medication and help you require to manage your symptoms. There are many private providers who provide this service. If you choose to go with one of them, it is crucial to investigate the reputation of the psychiatrist, their training, and their experience in treating neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a lot of prominent people have come out about their struggles with ADHD. For instance, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s and stated that the diagnosis "made everything make sense". But, despite an increase in awareness, NHS waiting lists remain full of people wanting to receive the right diagnosis and treatment.
As a result doctors 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 certain cases they may not be able to locate an expert clinician in neurodevelopmental disorders. In some areas, this is made worse by the fact that NHS staff are often being tasked with other health requirements like mental health assessments.
Some people also believe that private companies offering ADHD assessments over-diagnose those suffering from the condition. This can have devastating consequences for some. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue, and there is a dire need to increase accessibility to specialized ADHD assessments.
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD it is possible to treat it with a combination of behavioural therapy and medication. Stimulant medications such as amphetamine and methylphenidate can be used to improve the ability to control impulses and attention and control, while non-stimulants with slower effects such as atomoxetine could be helpful in improving concentration and productivity.
Some patients opt to employ behavioural therapy and do not require medication. Priory can put together an after-diagnostic care plan for those who require medication. This includes a detailed report as well as a titration for the final dose that can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD could have significant financial and human costs. It is crucial to conduct a psychiatric assessment and treatment plan for all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication as well as psychological and practical assistance as well as therapy for families if it is appropriate. This should also extend to family and workplace education about how to better manage and support an adult with ADHD in their daily lives.
The first step is an interview with a mental health professional who is trained to assess ADHD and related conditions. Patients should bring a list of their symptoms as well as any other mental health issues they have to this first appointment. The interview will go over the patient's medical, psychiatric, and family history. It will also discuss how ADHD symptoms affect the individual's daily functioning and how they affect their relationships.
During this procedure the doctor will confirm 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 different settings of the individual's life (either at home or at work). It should interfere with the person's normal functioning, and cause a lot of distress. This may be in the form of having difficulty keeping a job, trouble with marriage, or dealing with finances, problems at school or in their overall quality of life.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are trained in the function of the brain, but they cannot prescribe medication. They can only offer counseling. Psychiatrists are fully qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and may prescribe medications if required.
If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the person with ADHD is in need of medication they will write a prescription and supply it to a local pharmacy. adhd private assessment is done under the supervision and direction by the Psychiatrist. The procedure should be completed in three months following the private assessment. This will allow the patient to fully adjust their final dosage of medication. If the GP is willing to continue NHS prescribing following the private ADHD assessment, the Psychiatrist will provide them with an extensive report and treatment recommendations, and will draw up an Shared Care Agreement with the GP.