ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
To give people an accurate diagnosis for ADHD the NHS requires a thorough examination. The BBC investigation highlighted that some private clinics may be handing out incorrect diagnoses and medications.
A valid diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity of, duration and impact of symptoms. The clinician will interview the patient and examine the medical or psychiatric history, as well as family and personal background.
Diagnosis
Adults who have symptoms they believe could be ADHD should seek a diagnosis to find the appropriate treatment and control their life. Whether they have an instinct that they might be suffering from the condition, or had a family or friend member suggest they might be suffering from it, obtaining the correct diagnosis can allow them to find the appropriate treatment and help to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
Patients must first discuss their issues with the GP. They should tell them about their symptoms and how they affect their daily life. The doctor will recommend them to a skilled mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be an experienced psychiatrist who has received specific training in the field. This is crucial since it means that the psychiatrist can be sure that they are using the correct criteria for diagnosing ADHD.
The psychiatrist will interview the patient and frequently will ask them to bring their spouse, or close family members and friends who know them well. They will also need to consider the patient's medical history as well as mental health history, starting from childhood. They will also have to 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 take into account all available information.
If the psychiatrist is of the opinion that the patient does not meet all the criteria for an ADHD diagnoses, they will discuss their reasons. It could be that the patient has not given sufficient details about their problems or that a different condition is responsible for their behavior better than ADHD. It could also be that the therapist believes that the patient's problems stem from something else, and not ADHD.
Some people are unable to receive a correct diagnosis due to the prejudices of certain healthcare experts. This is especially the case if they're a person of colour or a woman born at birth, or are not an English speaker. The NHS is trying its best to tackle this issue.
Assessment
If you suspect you may have ADHD or other disorders, you should be evaluated by a medical professional who is experienced in these tests. You may ask your physician for a referral or consult with local medical schools or hospitals to determine the professionals who are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You could also seek a referral from an ADHD support group in your area.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the amount, severity, and duration of symptoms in specific areas of your life. These can include school, work and relationships. You might experience issues in the form of underachieving at work or education or in difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships and being forgetful or disorganized. It is important to talk about these problems and not be afraid to take criticism.
There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment, from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To make a formal diagnosis of ADHD it must be performed either by a qualified Psychiatrist 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 questioned. It is crucial to bring a family member with you to provide support or evidence. It is important to write the symptoms you experience and how they affect your life. The doctor will ask questions to collect information about your background and how you are doing. They will also look at your body to determine if there are any medical conditions that may be causing symptoms of ADHD.
The NHS can also provide an adult adhd diagnosis privately, but this can take a considerable amount of time due to the long NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for a private treatment or assessment via the "Right to Choose" pathway is easier. But, it is important to keep in mind that the quality of care from private providers varies greatly and it is crucial that you choose carefully.
Medication
If you have been struggling with symptoms of ADHD in adulthood it is a good idea to have a complete and comprehensive assessment done. This will allow you to receive the correct medication and the support that you need to manage symptoms. There are a variety of private providers who offer this service. If you choose to go with one of them, it is important to investigate the reputation of the psychiatrist, their education and experience treating neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a variety of celebrities have come out about their struggles with ADHD. For example, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s, private adhd adult assessment and claimed that the diagnosis "made everything make sense". NHS waiting lists are still overcrowded despite the an increase in awareness.
In the end, doctors are usually reluctant to refer patients to specialist services in the event of a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is mainly because they lack the time and, in some cases they may not be able to find a clinician with experience in neurodevelopmental conditions. In certain areas, NHS staff might have to address other needs such as mental health assessments.
There is also a perception that some private companies that offer ADHD assessments are over-diagnosing adults with the condition, which can cause severe harm to some people. This issue was brought up by the BBC Panorama program and there is a need to improve accessibility for ADHD assessments.
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD it is possible to treat it with a combination of treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and amphetamine can be used to enhance the ability to control impulses and attention, while slower acting non-stimulants like atomoxetine are helpful in enhancing focus and productivity.
Some patients only choose the behavioural approach and do not require medication. However, for those who require medication, a post-diagnostic program of care can be created at Priory. This will include a comprehensive medical report and titration of the final dose, which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can result in significant human and financial costs. It is essential to conduct a psychiatric assessment and treatment program for all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication and psychological and practical support and therapy for families if it is appropriate. This should include family and workplace training on how to better support and manage an adult suffering from ADHD.
The first step is to interview with an expert in mental health who is certified to evaluate ADHD and other related disorders. Patients must bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health issues they have to this first appointment. This interview will examine the patient's medical and mental health history and their family history. It will also look at the impact of ADHD on the person's daily life and relationships.
In this process, the doctor will verify that the symptoms match the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must appear in two different settings (home or work) of the individual's daily life. It should interfere with the person's normal functioning and cause distress. This can take the form a difficulty in securing a job, managing finances or marriage or school problems, or their overall quality of life.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are trained in the function of the brain, however they are unable to prescribe medications. They are able to provide advice. Psychologists are fully trained to diagnose and treat ADHD and may prescribe medication if needed.
If the Psychiatrist determines that the patient with ADHD is in need of medication, they will write a prescription and supply it to a local pharmacy. This is done under the supervision and guidance by the Psychiatrist. The procedure is expected to be completed within three months after the private assessment. This will allow the individual to fully adjust their final dosage of medication. If the GP agrees that they will continue to prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD assessment, the Psychiatrist can write a detailed report with treatment recommendations. They will also prepare the Shared Care Agreement.