ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
For people to get an accurate diagnosis of ADHD, the NHS requires a thorough evaluation. The BBC investigation revealed that some private clinics may be giving an unreliable diagnosis or prescribing the wrong treatment.
A valid diagnosis of ADHD is based on the number, severity of, duration and impact of symptoms. The clinician will interview and analyze the patient's medical, mental health and family background.
Diagnosis
For those who believe they are suffering from symptoms that could be associated with ADHD, getting a diagnosis is a key step to getting treatment and taking control over their lives. If they suspect they may have ADHD or a family member or friend has suggested it, a diagnosis can help them manage their symptoms.
Patients should first discuss their concerns with an GP. private adhd assessment uk should be able to discuss their symptoms and how they affect their daily life. The GP will recommend them to a skilled mental health professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be one who has completed specialized training in this area. This is important because it allows the psychiatrist to be certain that they are using the right criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will ask the patient to bring their spouse or family members and acquaintances who are familiar with them. They must also examine the patient's medical history and the psychiatric history, beginning from childhood. They will also have to consider the severity of the symptoms and how they affect the patient's life. A brain scan or blood test cannot confirm an ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need to take into account all available information available.
If the psychiatrist does not feel that the patient meets all of the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis the psychiatrist will explain why. It could be that the patient didn't provide enough information about their difficulties or that another condition better explains their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the therapist believes that the patient's problems are due to something else, and not ADHD.
Certain people find it difficult to obtain a diagnosis due to the prejudices held by some healthcare experts. This is especially the case if you're an individual of color or a woman who was born, or do not speak English natively. The NHS is working hard to tackle this problem.
Assessment
If you think you may have ADHD and are concerned, you should be evaluated by a healthcare professional who has experience in such tests. You may ask your physician for a referral or consult with the local medical schools or hospitals to determine which professionals are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You may also ask for a referral from an ADHD support group in your local area.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity and duration of the symptoms in certain areas of one's life. These could include school, work and relationships. You may experience problems with regards to not performing in your education or at work, difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, or being forgetful or disorganized. It is crucial to talk about these problems and not be afraid of criticism.
There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To provide a formal diagnosis of ADHD it must be done by a qualified Psychiatrist, or a Special Nurse who is a Prescriber Qualified. Only a Psychiatrist is qualified to prescribe medication for ADHD.
In the course of an ADHD evaluation, you will be questioned. It is important to bring a loved one along for support or as evidence. It is beneficial to write your symptoms and how they impact your life. The doctor will ask questions to collect details about your past and how you are doing. They will also check your body to determine if there are any medical conditions that could 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 pockets for a private assessment and treatment via the 'Right to Choice option. It is important to keep in mind that the quality and cost of private healthcare can differ significantly.
Medication
If you've been struggling with symptoms of ADHD as an adult it is a great idea to have a complete and thorough evaluation done. This will allow you to get the right medication, and the help you require to manage the symptoms. There are many private providers who provide this service. If you decide to use one of them, it is important to research the reputation of the psychiatrist, their education, and their experience in managing neurodevelopmental disorders.
A high number of celebrities have spoken out about their struggles with ADHD in recent months. For instance, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s and stated that her diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". NHS waiting lists are crowded despite increasing awareness.
To avoid this, doctors often do not recommend their patients to specialist services in order to obtain an individual ADHD diagnosis. This is largely because they don't have the time, and in some cases they may not be able to locate a specialist who is knowledgeable in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, this is exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff are often being tasked with other health requirements, such as mental health assessments.
Some people also believe that private companies offering ADHD assessments over-diagnose those suffering from the condition. This could result in devastating effects for certain. This issue was brought up by the BBC Panorama program and there is a need to improve access for ADHD assessments.
Once you have a private diagnosis of ADHD it is possible to treat the disorder with a combination of behavioural therapy and medication. Stimulant drugs like amphetamine and methylphenidate are used to improve concentration and productivity, whereas non-stimulants that are slower-acting like atomoxetine can be beneficial for improving your attention and impulse control.
Certain patients choose only treatment for behavioural issues and do not require medication. However, for those who need to take medication, a post-diagnostic plan of care could be put together at Priory. This includes a detailed report and titration for the final dose which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic care
A diagnosis of ADHD can result in significant financial and human cost. This is why it's crucial that a psychiatric examination and treatment program be made available to all adults with ADHD. This should include medication as well as psychological and practical support, as well as therapy for families if it is appropriate. This should include workplace and family information on how to best support and manage an adult with ADHD.
The first step is an interview with a mental health professional who is trained to assess ADHD and other related disorders. Patients are required to bring a list with their symptoms as well as any other mental health issues they have to the initial appointment. This interview will review 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.
In this process, the doctor will verify that the symptoms meet the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptoms must be present in two different places (home or at work) of the person's daily life. It should affect the person's normal functioning, and cause distress. This could take the form of a problem finding a job or managing finances or marriage or school issues, or their general quality of life.
There is a wide range of professionals who carry out an assessment for ADHD, including Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists know how the brain functions however they are not able to prescribe medications, therefore they can only suggest counselling. Psychologists are able to diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication if required.
If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the patient with ADHD is in need of medication, they will write a prescription and give it to a 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 allows the patient to fully adjust their final dosage of medication. If the GP agrees to continue NHS prescribing after the private ADHD assessment the Psychiatrist will present them with a complete report and treatment recommendations, and will draft a Shared Care Agreement with the GP.