ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that patients undergo a thorough assessment in order to get the correct ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics may be distributing incorrect diagnoses and medications.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on symptoms and their severity, duration, and impact. The clinician will interview the patient and go over the medical or psychiatric history, as well as family and personal background.
Diagnosis
For those who believe they have symptoms that could be related to ADHD being diagnosed is a key step to finding treatment and gaining control of their lives. If they feel that they might be suffering from the condition, or had a friend or family member suggest they might have it, getting the right diagnosis can allow them to find the appropriate treatment and help to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
The first thing patients should do is discuss their concerns with a GP. Inform them of your symptoms and how they impact your daily routine. The doctor will recommend them to a specialist mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist is psychiatrist who has completed specialized training in this field. This is important because it allows the psychiatrist to be certain that they are using the right criteria to determine ADHD.
The psychiatrist will ask the patient to bring their partner or close family members and friends who are familiar with them. They will also need to look at the patient's medical and psychiatric history from childhood onwards. They will also have to consider the severity of the symptoms and how they have impacted the patient's life. A brain scan or blood test will not confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will have take into consideration all available information available.
If the psychiatrist doesn't believe that the patient meets all the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and they explain why. It could be that the patient has not given enough detail about their issues or that another medical condition is responsible for their behaviour better than ADHD. Alternatively, it might be that the psychiatrist feels that the patient's problems are caused by something else and not the condition.
Some people are unable to obtain a diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain health experts. This is particularly the case if they're a person of colour or assigned a female birth or not a native English speaking. The NHS is doing its best to address this problem.
Assessment
If you suspect that you might have ADHD, you should have an assessment by a healthcare professional who is familiar with such assessments. You can ask your doctor for a referral or consult with the local medical schools or hospitals to determine the professionals who are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also contact an individual from your local ADHD support group for recommendations.
private adhd assessment london of ADHD is based on the number severity, duration and severity of symptoms that affect particular areas of your life. These include school, relationships and work. There are times when you may face problems with regards to not performing in your education or at work as well as difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships and being forgetful or disorganized. It is important to discuss these issues and not be afraid of criticism.
There are a variety of healthcare professionals who are able to conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To give a definitive diagnosis of ADHD it should be carried out either by a qualified Psychiatrist, or a Prescriber Qualified Special Nurse. This is because only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
You will usually be interviewed during an ADHD assessment and it is crucial to bring a family member for support or to show evidence. It is beneficial to write your symptoms and how they impact your life. The doctor will ask questions to collect information about your history and your current functioning. They will also check your body to determine if there are any medical conditions that may cause the symptoms of ADHD.
The NHS can also provide an adult adhd diagnosis privately however this could take a long time because of the overflowing NHS waiting lists. Some people find that paying out of pocket for a private treatment and assessment through the "Right to Choose" pathway is easier. It is important to keep in mind that the quality and cost of private care can vary significantly.
Medication
If you've struggled with symptoms of ADHD as an adult it is a great idea to have a full and thorough evaluation done. This will help you get the right medication and help you require to manage your symptoms. There are numerous private providers of this service but, should you decide to go down this route it is crucial to research the reputation of the chosen psychiatrist and their knowledge and training with neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a lot of prominent people have opened up about their struggles with ADHD. 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 full despite increased awareness.
In the end doctors are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services for a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is largely because they don't have the time or resources, and in some instances, they might not be able find a specialist who is knowledgeable in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, this is exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff may be being tasked with other health requirements, such as mental health assessments.
There is also a perception that certain private providers of ADHD assessments are prone to over-diagnosing adults with the condition, which could have devastating consequences for some people. This issue was brought up by the BBC Panorama program and there is a need to increase access to ADHD assessments.
If you've been given a personal diagnosis of ADHD it is possible to treat the disorder with a combination of treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. The stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamine can be used to improve attention and impulse control as well as slower-acting non-stimulants such as atomoxetine can be helpful in enhancing focus and productivity.
Some patients choose to only use behavioural therapy and do not require medication. For those who need to take medication, a post-diagnostic program of care can be put together at Priory. This includes a detailed report as well as a titration for the final dose that can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic care
A diagnosis of ADHD can result in significant human and financial costs. It is essential to provide a psychiatric evaluation and treatment program for all adults with ADHD. This should include medication, psychological and practical support and family therapy where appropriate. This should include both workplace and family education on how to better assist and manage an adult suffering from ADHD.
The first step is an interview with a mental health professional who is trained to assess ADHD and other related disorders. Patients must bring a written list of their symptoms, as well as any other mental health issues prior to their first appointment. This interview will review the patient's medical, psychiatric and family background. It will also look at the impact of ADHD on the person's everyday life and relationships.
During this process the doctor will confirm that the symptoms match the criteria for ADHD that are defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must appear in two different environments (home or work) of the person's everyday life. It must interfere with their normal functioning and result in significant distress or impairment. This can be in the form of difficulties in securing a job, managing finances or marriage or school problems, 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, but they cannot prescribe medication. They can only provide advice. Psychologists are fully trained to diagnose and treat ADHD and offer medication if needed.
If the Psychiatrist determines that the patient has ADHD needs medication, he or she will prescribe a prescription to local pharmacists. This is done under the supervision of the psychiatrist and must be completed within three months of the private assessment to ensure that the individual is able to fully adjusted to their final dosage of medication. If the GP accepts to continue NHS prescribing after the private ADHD assessment the Psychiatrist will provide them with a a comprehensive report and treatment recommendations and will draft an Shared Care Agreement with the GP.