ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that people undergo a thorough examination in order to receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation highlighted that some private clinics could be handing out incorrect diagnoses and medications.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms and their severity, duration and impact. The doctor will interview the individual and review the medical or psychiatric history, as well as family and personal history.
Diagnosis
For adults who feel they have symptoms that could be connected to ADHD, getting a diagnosis is an essential step towards getting treatment and taking control over their lives. Whether they have an instinct that they might be suffering from the condition, or been told by a family member or friend that a member suggest they might be suffering from it, obtaining the correct diagnosis can help them find the treatments and support to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
Patients should first discuss their concerns with an GP. Tell them about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. The doctor will refer them to a specialist mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be an experienced psychiatrist who has received specific training in the field. This is important because it lets the psychiatrist be certain that they are applying the correct criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will interview the patient and may ask them to bring in their partner, or close family members and friends who are familiar with them. They will also need to consider the patient's medical history and mental health history, starting from childhood. They will also be looking at the severity of the symptoms and the impact on the patient's daily life. There isn't a brain scan or blood test that can be used to confirm the ADHD diagnosis The psychiatrist will have to evaluate all of the information available.
If the psychiatrist believes that the patient does not meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and will then be able to explain why. It could be because the patient didn't give enough details about their difficulties or that another medical condition is more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the psychiatrist feels that the patient's difficulties are caused by something else and not the ADHD condition.
Some people are unable to receive a correct diagnosis due to the prejudices of certain health professionals. This is particularly the case when they are a person of colour or a woman born at birth, or are not an English speaking. The NHS is working hard to address this issue.
The Assessment
If you think you might have ADHD or other disorders, you should seek an evaluation by a medical professional who is experienced in these evaluations. You could ask your doctor for a referral or check with local medical schools or hospitals to determine the professionals who are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You may also ask for a referral from an ADHD support group in your region.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity and duration of symptoms in specific areas of one's life. These include school, relationships and work. You might be struggling with being unable to perform at school or at work, having difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, or being forgetful or unorganised. It is crucial to talk about these issues in a candid manner and not hold back from the fear of being criticized.
There are cost of private adhd assessment of healthcare professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To provide a formal diagnosis of ADHD it should be carried out either by a Psychiatrist who is qualified, or a Prescriber Qualified Special Nurse. This is because only a psychiatrist can prescribe medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
You are usually questioned during an ADHD evaluation, and it is important to bring along an adult family member to provide assistance or to provide evidence. It is also beneficial to write down your symptoms and how they have affected your life. The doctor will ask you questions to gather information about your history and your current functioning. They will also check you to see whether there are any medical conditions that could be responsible for your ADHD symptoms.
You can also access an adult adhd private diagnosis through the NHS however, it could take a long time due to the logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer to pay out of their own pockets for an assessment and treatment that is private through the 'Right To Choose route. It is important to keep in mind that the quality and cost of private treatment can vary significantly.
Medication
It is beneficial to undergo a thorough and thorough assessment if are experiencing ADHD symptoms into adulthood. This will help you get the correct medication and help you require to manage your symptoms. There are many private providers that offer this service. If you decide to choose one of them, it is important to investigate the reputation of the psychiatrist, their training and experience in managing neurodevelopmental disorders.
A lot of public figures have spoken out about their struggles with ADHD in recent months. For example, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s, and claimed that the diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". However, despite the increasing awareness, NHS waiting lists remain jam-packed with people who want to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
In order to avoid this, doctors frequently are reluctant to refer patients to specialist services for a private ADHD diagnosis. This is partly because they do not have the time and, in some cases, they may be unable to locate a specialist with expertise in neurodevelopmental conditions. In some areas, this is exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff could be tasked with other care requirements like mental health assessments.
There is also a perception that certain private companies offering ADHD assessments are prone to over-diagnosing adults with the condition, which could cause severe harm to some people. This concern was raised by the BBC Panorama program and there is a pressing need to increase access to ADHD tests.
Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD it is possible to treat it with a combination of therapy for behavioural issues and medication. Stimulant drugs like amphetamine or methylphenidate can be used to improve focus and productivity, while non-stimulants that are slower-acting like atomoxetine can be beneficial for improving the ability to concentrate and control impulses.
Some patients prefer to employ behavioural therapy and do not require medication. However, for those who require medication, a post-diagnostic package of care can be put together at Priory. This will include a comprehensive report as well as a titration for the final dose which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a significant one for both the financial and human costs. It is essential to conduct a psychiatric assessment and treatment plan for all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication and practical and psychological support and therapy for families if it is appropriate. This should include workplace and family information on how to best support and manage an adult suffering from ADHD.
The first step is an interview with an expert in mental health who is certified to evaluate ADHD and related conditions. Patients should bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health concerns they have to this first appointment. The interview will go over the patient's medical, mental health and family background. It will also discuss the impact of ADHD on the person's daily life and relationships.
During this procedure the doctor will ensure that the symptoms match the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must be present in two settings of the person's life (either at home or at work). It must interfere with the person's normal functioning and cause a lot of distress. This can take the form of difficulties in securing a job, coping with finances or marriage or school issues, or in their overall quality of living.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are trained in the functioning of the brain, however they are unable to prescribe medications. They are able to provide advice. Psychiatrists are fully qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and may prescribe medication if needed.
If the Psychiatrist decides that the patient with ADHD does need medication, they will write a prescription and send it to a local pharmacy. This is done under the supervision of the psychiatrist and should be completed within three months of the private assessment to ensure that the patient is able to fully adjusted to 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 will provide a thorough report with treatment recommendations. They can also draw up an agreement known as a Shared Care Agreement.