ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that people undergo a thorough examination for an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation found that certain private clinics could provide incorrect diagnoses and medications.
A legitimate diagnosis of ADHD is based on the severity, number, duration and impact of symptoms. The doctor will interview the patient and examine the medical, psychiatric, family and personal background.
Diagnosis
For adults who feel they have symptoms that may be associated with ADHD, getting a diagnosis is a key step to finding a treatment and gaining control over their lives. If they believe they suffer from ADHD or a family member or friend has suggested it, an assessment can aid them in managing their symptoms.
The first thing patients need to discuss their concerns with the GP. Tell them about your symptoms and how they impact your daily routine. The GP will then recommend them to an expert mental health professional who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist must be psychiatrist who has undergone specialist training in this area. This is important as it means that the psychiatrist will be sure that they are using the right criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will ask the patient to bring their spouse or family members and friends who are familiar with them. They'll also have to look at the patient's medical and mental background from childhood to now. They will also take into consideration the severity of symptoms and the effects on the patient's life. There is no brain scan or blood test that can be used to confirm an ADHD diagnosis, so the psychiatrist will have to evaluate all of the information available.
If the psychiatrist doesn't believe that the patient meets all the criteria required for an ADHD diagnosis the psychiatrist will explain the reasons. It could be that the patient has not given sufficient detail about their difficulties, or it might be that another medical condition is responsible for their behavior better than ADHD. Or, it could be that the psychiatrist feels that the patient's difficulties are caused by something else and not due to the condition.
Some people have a difficult to receive a correct diagnosis because of the prejudices of some healthcare medical professionals. This is particularly relevant 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 solve this issue.
Assessment
If you think you might have ADHD or other disorders, you should have an assessment by a medical professional who has experience in such assessments. You can ask your doctor to recommend a specialist or check with local university-based hospitals or medical schools to determine which professionals are qualified to perform an ADHD evaluation for adults. You can also ask a local ADHD support group for an appointment.
A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the amount of, severity and duration of symptoms that impact specific areas of your life. These can include school, work and relationships. You may have problems with being unable to perform at school or at working, having difficulties making and maintaining relationships, or being forgetful or unorganised. It is essential to address these issues and not be afraid of criticism.
There are many different healthcare professionals who are able to conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. However, in order to be able to give a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD it must be conducted by a qualified Psychiatrist or a Prescriber Qualified Specialist Nurse. Only cost of private adhd assessment is qualified to prescribe medication for ADHD.
You will usually be interviewed during an ADHD evaluation, and it is important to bring along someone from your family to offer support or to show evidence. It is also beneficial to record your symptoms and how they have affected your life. The doctor will ask questions to discover more about your past and how you are currently functioning. They will also conduct an examination to determine if there are any medical conditions that may be the cause of your ADHD symptoms.
You can also obtain an adult adhd private diagnosis through the NHS however, it could take some time due to the logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for private treatment or assessment via the "Right to Choose" option is more convenient. But, it is important to be aware that the quality of care from private providers is a lot different and that it is essential to select your provider with care.
Medication
It is a good thing to get a comprehensive and complete assessment if you are struggling with ADHD symptoms in adulthood. This will enable you to receive the correct medication and the support that 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 training, and their experience in managing neurodevelopmental disorders.
A large number of public figures have been open about their struggles with ADHD in recent months. Sue Perkins, the host of Great British Bake Off, was diagnosed with ADHD in her 50s. She claimed that the diagnosis "made everything seem to make sense". NHS waiting lists are still full despite an increase in awareness.
Therefore doctors are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services for a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is due to the fact that they don't have the time and in certain instances, they may be unable to locate a specialist with expertise in neurodevelopmental conditions. In certain areas, this is further exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff are often being tasked with other health requirements, such as mental health assessments.
There is also a perception that some private companies that offer ADHD assessments are prone to over-diagnosing adults with the condition, and this can cause severe harm to some people. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue and there is a real need to increase access to specialized ADHD assessments.
Once you have a private diagnosis of ADHD it is possible to treat the disorder using a combination of behavioural therapy and medication. Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate and amphetamine can be used to improve attention and impulse control, while slower acting non-stimulants such as atomoxetine could be helpful in enhancing concentration and productivity.
Some patients choose to only use behavioural therapy and do not require medication. However, for those who require medication, a post-diagnostic plan of care can be formulated 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 can have significant financial and human costs. This is why it is crucial that a psychiatric evaluation and treatment program is made available to all adults with ADHD. This should include medications as well as psychological and practical support and family therapy when appropriate. This should include workplace and family training on how to better help and manage an adult with ADHD.
The first step involves an interview with a mental healthcare professional who is qualified to evaluate ADHD or other conditions. Patients should bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health issues to the initial appointment. This appointment will review the patient's medical and mental health history, as well as their family history. It will also discuss the effects of ADHD on the individual's daily life and relationships.
During this process the doctor will check whether the symptoms are in line with the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptoms must be present in two different settings (home or at work) of the individual's daily life. It should affect the person's normal functioning and cause distress. This could take the form a difficulty finding a job or coping with finances or marriage, problems in school or their overall quality of life.
There is a wide range of professionals who perform an assessment for ADHD such as Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists are trained in the functioning of the brain, but they cannot prescribe medication. They can only provide advice. Psychiatrists are fully qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and offer medications if required.
If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the person suffering from ADHD requires medication they will write a prescription and send it to the local pharmacy. This is done under the supervision and direction of the Psychiatrist, and is expected to be completed within 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 NHS prescribing after the private ADHD assessment, the Psychiatrist will present them with a an extensive report and treatment suggestions and will create an Shared Care Agreement with the GP.