ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
To give people an accurate diagnosis of ADHD, the NHS requires a thorough evaluation. The BBC investigation revealed that some private clinics could be giving inaccurate diagnoses and prescribing inappropriate medications.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms and their severity, duration and impact. The physician will interview and analyze the patient's medical, mental health and family medical history.
Diagnosis
Adults who experience symptoms that they believe could be ADHD should seek out a diagnosis to determine the right treatment and control their life. If they suspect they may have ADHD, or if someone in their family or a friend has suggested it, obtaining an assessment can aid them in managing their symptoms.
Patients must first discuss their issues with the GP. They should be able to discuss their symptoms and how they impact their daily lives. The doctor will refer them to a seasoned mental health professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has undergone specific training in the field. This is crucial because it means that the psychiatrist will be certain that they are applying the correct criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will interview the patient and often ask them to bring in their spouse, or close relatives and friends who know them well. They'll also have to consider the patient's medical and mental history from childhood onwards. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and their impact on the patient's daily life. A brain scan or blood test cannot confirm an ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need take into consideration all available information available.
If the psychiatrist does not feel that the patient meets all the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis, they will explain the reasons. It could be that the patient didn't provide enough information about their issues or another medical condition is more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's difficulties stem from something else, and not ADHD.
Some people find it harder to receive a correct diagnosis because of the prejudices espoused by certain healthcare experts. This is especially the case if they're an individual of color or assigned a female birth, or are not an English speaker. The NHS is trying its best to tackle this issue.
The Assessment
If you suspect you may have ADHD and are concerned, you should have an assessment by a medical professional who is familiar with such tests. You can ask your doctor for a referral or check with 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 region.
The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity and duration of symptoms in particular areas of life. This includes relationships, school and work. You may have problems with not performing well in school or at work, having difficulty making and maintaining relationships, or being forgetful or unorganised. It is crucial 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 provide a formal diagnosis of ADHD it should be carried out either by a qualified Psychiatrist, or a Special Nurse who is a Prescriber Qualified. Only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD.
During an ADHD assessment you will be interviewed. It is important to bring a family member along for support or as evidence. It is helpful to note down your symptoms, and how they impact your life. private adhd assessment will ask you questions to gather details about your past and your current functioning. They will also look at your body to determine if there are any medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms of ADHD.
The NHS can also offer a private adult adhd diagnosis however, this could take a long time due to the long NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer to pay out of their own pocket for private assessments and treatments via the 'Right to Choice option. It is important to remember that the cost and quality of private treatment can vary significantly.
Medication
It is recommended to undergo a thorough and complete assessment if you are struggling with ADHD symptoms in adulthood. This will enable you to receive the correct medication and the assistance you require to manage the symptoms. There are many private providers who offer this service. If you decide to use one of them, it is important to investigate the reputation of the psychiatrist, their training and experience in dealing neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a lot of public figures have come out about their struggles with ADHD. For instance, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s, and claimed that her diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". NHS waiting lists are still overcrowded despite the an increase in awareness.
Therefore, doctors are usually reluctant to refer patients to specialist services to confirm a diagnosis of ADHD. This is due to the fact that they don't have the time or resources and, in certain instances they may not be able to find a clinician with experience in neurodevelopmental conditions. In some areas, this is further exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff may be tasked with other care requirements such as mental health assessments.
There is also a perception that certain private providers of ADHD assessments are prone to misdiagnosing people with the condition, which could cause severe harm to some people. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue, and there is a pressing need to increase accessibility to specialized ADHD tests.
Once you have a private diagnosis of ADHD, it is possible to treat the disorder by using a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. Stimulant drugs such as amphetamine and methylphenidate can be employed to increase concentration and productivity, whereas non-stimulants that are slower-acting like atomoxetine can be beneficial for improving your attention and impulse control.
Some patients only choose treatment for behavioural issues and do not require medication. However, for those who require medication, a post-diagnostic plan of care could be put together at Priory. This includes a detailed report and titration of the final dose which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic care
A diagnosis of ADHD can have significant human and financial costs. This is why it is crucial that a psychiatric evaluation and treatment programme be made available to all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication, practical and psychological assistance and family therapy, if needed. This should include workplace and family training 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 related conditions. Patients are required to bring a list with their symptoms as well as any other mental health issues they have to the initial appointment. The interview will go over the patient's medical, mental health and family history. It will also examine how the ADHD symptoms impact the patient's daily functioning and their relationships.
In this process, the doctor will verify that the symptoms are in line with the criteria for ADHD defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must manifest in two different environments (home or at work) of the person's daily life. It must interfere with the person's normal functioning, and cause significant distress. This could take the form of having difficulty keeping a job, trouble with marriage, or dealing with finances, problems at school or in their overall level of living.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment. Psychologists know how the brain functions however they are not able to prescribe medication, and can only recommend counselling. Psychologists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication if required.
If the Psychiatrist decides that the patient with ADHD requires medication, they will write a prescription for an area pharmacist. This is done under the supervision and direction by the Psychiatrist. The procedure is expected to be completed within three months after the private assessment. This will allow the individual to fully titrate into their final dosage of medication. If the GP is in agreement to continue to prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD assessment the Psychiatrist can provide a comprehensive report with treatment recommendations. They can also prepare the Shared Care Agreement.