ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that patients undergo a thorough assessment in order to receive the correct ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics could be giving inaccurate diagnoses and prescribing inappropriate treatment.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms, their severity, duration, and impact. The clinician will interview and analyze the patient's medical, psychiatric and family history.
Diagnosis
For those who believe they have symptoms that may be related to ADHD being diagnosed is a key step to finding a treatment and gaining control of their lives. If they feel they have ADHD, or if they have a family member or a friend who has suggested it, getting an assessment can aid them in managing their symptoms.
The first thing patients must discuss their concerns with a GP. Inform them of your symptoms and how they affect your daily routine. The GP will refer them to a seasoned mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has received specific training in the field. This is important as it means that the psychiatrist can be confident that they are using the right criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will interview the patient and often ask them to bring in their spouse, or close family members and friends who know them well. They must also examine the patient's medical history as well as mental health history, starting from childhood. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they have affected the patient's life. There is no brain scan or blood test that can confirm the ADHD diagnosis Therefore, the psychiatrist will need to assess all of the information available.
If the psychiatrist believes that the patient does not meet all the criteria for an ADHD diagnoses the psychiatrist will be able to explain why. It could be because the patient has not given sufficient details about their problems or that another condition explains their behaviour better than ADHD. Or, it could be the case that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's issues may be due to a different cause and not the condition.
Some people have a harder in obtaining a diagnosis due to the prejudices of certain healthcare professionals. This is especially relevant if you're an individual of color or a woman born, or do not speak English natively. The NHS is trying its best to address this problem.
The Assessment
If you suspect that you may be suffering from ADHD and are concerned, you should have an assessment by a health care provider who is experienced in these evaluations. You could ask your doctor to refer you or check with the local medical schools or hospitals to find out the professionals who are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also ask an individual from your local ADHD support group for a referral.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity and duration of the symptoms in particular areas of one's life. These could include work, school and relationships. There are times when you may face problems in the form of underachieving at work or education, difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, or being forgetful or disorganized. It is important to discuss these issues and not be afraid to confront criticism.
From GPs to consultant psychiatrists There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment. However, in order to be able to give a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD the assessment must be done by a qualified Psychiatrist, or Prescriber qualified specialist nurse. Only a Psychiatrist can prescribe medication for ADHD.
In an ADHD assessment you will be questioned. It is important to bring a family member along for support or as evidence. It is helpful to note the symptoms you experience and how they impact your life. The doctor will ask you questions to gather information about your history and how you are doing. They will also examine you to determine if you have any medical conditions that could be causing your ADHD symptoms.
private adhd assessment london can also offer an adult adhd diagnosis privately, but this can take a considerable amount of time because of the backed up NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for private treatment and evaluation through the "Right to Choose" option is more convenient. It is important to remember that the quality and cost of private treatment can vary greatly.
Medication
If you've been struggling with symptoms of ADHD in your adulthood it is a great idea to get a thorough and comprehensive assessment done. This will allow you to get the correct medication and support you need to manage your symptoms. There are many private companies who offer this service. If you decide to use one of them, it is essential to investigate the reputation of the psychiatrist, their education and experience treating neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a number of prominent people have opened up about their struggles with ADHD. For example, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s and said that her diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". But, despite increasing awareness, NHS waiting lists remain jam-packed with people wanting to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
As a result, doctors are usually reluctant to refer patients to specialist services in the event of a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is due to the fact that they lack the time and, in some cases, they may be unable to locate a specialist with expertise in neurodevelopmental conditions. In some areas, the NHS staff may have to handle other requirements such as mental health assessments.
There are those who believe that private providers of ADHD assessments are too quick to diagnose adults with the condition. This can have devastating effects for some. This issue was highlighted by the BBC Panorama program and there is a need to improve accessibility for ADHD assessments.
Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD, you can treat it using a combination treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant drugs like amphetamine and methylphenidate are utilized to boost productivity and focus, while non-stimulants with a slower onset like atomoxetine are useful for improving your attention and impulse control.
Some patients only choose treatment for behavioural issues, and do not need medication. Priory can put together an after-diagnostic care plan for patients who require medication. This will include a thorough medical report and titration of the final dosage, which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic care
A diagnosis of ADHD could result in significant human and financial costs. It is essential to conduct a psychiatric assessment and treatment plan for all adults with ADHD. This should include medication, practical and psychological support as well as family therapy, if needed. This should also include the workplace and family members 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 care who is certified to evaluate ADHD and related conditions. Patients must bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health issues they have to this first appointment. This interview will review the patient's medical, mental health and family history. It will also discuss the impact of ADHD on the person's everyday life and relationships.
During this procedure, the doctor will verify that the symptoms match the criteria for ADHD defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom has to be present in two settings of the person's daily life (either at home or at work). It must interfere with the person's normal functioning, and cause significant distress. This may be in the form of difficulties in getting a job, problems in marriage, or having to deal with financial issues, difficulties at school or in their overall quality of life.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment. Psychologists understand how the brain functions however, they are not qualified to prescribe medication, and can only recommend counselling. Psychiatrists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication when necessary.
If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the patient with ADHD needs medication, he or she will prescribe a prescription to local pharmacists. This is under the supervision and direction of the Psychiatrist, and should be completed within three months from the private assessment. This will allow the patient to fully titrate into their final dosage of medication. If the GP is in agreement to continue prescribing ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD assessment the Psychiatrist can write a detailed report with treatment recommendations. They can also draw up a Shared Care Agreement.