ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that people undergo a thorough assessment in order to get an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics may provide incorrect diagnoses and medications.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms and their severity, duration, and impact. The clinician will interview and examine the patient's medical, mental health and family medical history.
Diagnosis
For adults who feel they are suffering from symptoms that could be related to ADHD being diagnosed is an essential step towards finding treatment and gaining control over their lives. If they suspect they may have ADHD or a family member or friend has suggested it, getting the diagnosis will aid in managing their symptoms.
Patients must first discuss their issues with the GP. They must inform them of their symptoms and how they impact their daily lives. The doctor will then recommend them to an expert mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be an experienced psychiatrist who has had specific training in the field. This is essential because it allows the psychiatrist to be certain that they are applying the correct criteria to determine ADHD.
The psychiatrist will ask the patient to bring their spouse or close family members and friends who are familiar to them. They'll also need to consider the patient's medical and mental background from childhood to now. They will also be looking at the severity of symptoms and the impact on the patient's daily life. A brain scan or blood test will not confirm an ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need to take into account all available information.
If the psychiatrist feels that the patient does not meet all the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis the psychiatrist will be able to explain why. It could be because the patient hasn't given sufficient detail about their difficulties or that another medical condition is responsible for their behavior more effectively than ADHD. It could also be that the doctor believes that the patient's problems may be due to a different cause and not the ADHD condition.
Some people are unable to obtain a diagnosis because of the prejudices held by some health experts. This is especially the case if they're an individual of color or a woman born at birth, or are not an English speaking. However there is an increasing awareness of the issue and the NHS is working to address it.
The Assessment
If you are concerned that you may have ADHD you should seek an assessment from a health healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting such assessments. You can ask your doctor for a referral or consult with the local medical schools or hospitals to find out the professionals who are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also request a referral from an ADHD support group in your area.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the severity, number, and duration of symptoms in specific areas of one's life. This could include school, work and relationships. You may have problems with not performing well in school or at working, having difficulties making and maintaining relationships, or being unorganized or forgetful. It is crucial to discuss these issues and not be afraid of criticism.
There are a myriad of healthcare professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment, from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. However, in order to officially recognize a diagnosis of ADHD it must be conducted by a qualified Psychiatrist or a Prescriber Certified Specialist Nurse. This is because only a Psychiatrist can prescribe medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
In the course of an ADHD assessment, you will be questioned. It is important to bring a family member along for support or as evidence. It is also helpful to note down your symptoms and how they've affected your life. The doctor will ask questions to learn about your past and how you are functioning. They will also examine you to determine if there are any medical conditions that could be responsible for your ADHD symptoms.
The NHS can also provide an adult adhd diagnosis privately however, this could take a long time due to the long NHS waiting lists. Some people find that paying out of pocket for a private treatment or assessment via the "Right to Choose" route is simpler. It is important to remember that the quality and price of private healthcare can differ dramatically.
Medication
It is a good thing to get a comprehensive and full assessment if you struggle with ADHD symptoms into adulthood. This will allow you to get the right medication, and the help you require to manage the symptoms. There are a variety of private providers who provide this service. If you decide to choose one of them, it is important that you research the reputation of the psychiatrist, their education and experience in managing neurodevelopmental disorders.
A lot of celebrities 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 said that the diagnosis "made everything make sense". NHS waiting lists are still overcrowded despite the an increase in awareness.
In order to avoid this, GPs often do not recommend their patients to specialist services to obtain a private ADHD diagnosis. This is mainly because they do not have the time or resources and, in some cases they may not be able to find a clinician who is skilled in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, this is made worse by the fact that NHS staff are often assigned other needs such as mental health assessments.
There is also a perception among some private companies offering ADHD assessments are prone to misdiagnosing people with the condition, which could result in devastating consequences for certain people. 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 as having ADHD it is possible to treat it with a combination of therapy for behavioural issues and medication. adhd private assessment uk as amphetamine and methylphenidate are utilized to boost productivity and focus, while non-stimulants with a slower onset like atomoxetine are useful for improving the ability to concentrate and control impulses.
Some patients opt to use behavioural therapy and do not require medication. However, for those who require medication, a post-diagnostic package of care could be created at Priory. This will include a thorough report and titration for the final dose, which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic care
A diagnosis of ADHD could be accompanied by significant human and financial costs. This is why it is vital that a psychiatric examination and treatment programme be made available to all adults with ADHD. This should include medication and psychological and practical support, as well as family therapy, if needed. This should also extend to workplace and family education on how to better manage and assist an adult with ADHD in their daily life.
The first step is an interview with an expert in mental health who is trained to assess ADHD and other related disorders. Patients are required to be prepared to bring a written record of their symptoms as well as any other mental health issues to the initial appointment. The interview will cover the patient's medical, mental health and family background. It will also look at the effects of ADHD on the person's everyday life and relationships.
In this process the doctor will confirm that the symptoms meet the criteria for ADHD defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must manifest in two different environments (home or work) of the individual's daily life. It must interfere with their normal functioning and cause significant distress or impairment. This may be in the form of having difficulty keeping a job, trouble with marriage or coping with financial issues, difficulties at school or in their overall level of living.
There are a variety of professionals who carry out an assessment for ADHD, including Psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychologists know how the brain functions however, they are not qualified to prescribe medications, so can only suggest counselling. Psychologists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication if necessary.
If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the person has ADHD needs medication, they will write a prescription for a local pharmacist. This is under the supervision and guidance by the Psychiatrist. The procedure should be completed in three months from the private assessment. This will allow the individual to fully adjust 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 that includes treatment recommendations. They can also draw up an agreement known as a Shared Care Agreement.