ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that patients undergo a thorough assessment in order to receive a proper ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation found that certain private clinics could provide incorrect diagnoses and medications.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms, their severity, duration, and impact. The doctor will interview the individual and review the medical or psychiatric history, as well as family and personal history.
Diagnosis
For adults who feel they are suffering from symptoms that could be related to ADHD, getting a diagnosis is the first step in getting treatment and taking control of their lives. If they believe they suffer from ADHD, or if someone in their family or a friend has suggested it, the diagnosis will help them manage their symptoms.
The first thing patients should do is discuss their concerns with an GP. Discuss your symptoms with them and how they affect your daily life. The GP will refer them to a seasoned mental health professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has received specific training in the field. This is essential because it allows the psychiatrist to be confident that they're using the right criteria to determine ADHD.
The psychiatrist will ask the patient to bring their spouse or close family members and friends who are familiar with them. They will also need to examine the patient's medical and psychiatric background from childhood to now. They will also have to consider the severity of the symptoms and how they affect the patient's lifestyle. There isn't a blood test or brain scan that can be used to confirm an ADHD diagnosis, so the psychiatrist must evaluate all of the information available.
If the psychiatrist doesn't believe that the patient meets all the criteria required for an ADHD diagnosis and they explain why. It could be because the patient hasn't provided sufficient details about their problems or that a different condition is responsible for their behaviour better than ADHD. It could also be that the doctor believes that the patient's problems stem from something else, and not ADHD.
Some people have a harder to receive a correct diagnosis because of the prejudices of some healthcare professionals. This is particularly true if you are someone of color or a woman born, or do not speak English natively. The NHS is doing its best to tackle this issue.
Assessment
If you suspect you may have ADHD, you should have an assessment by a medical professional who is familiar with such evaluations. You may ask your physician for a referral or consult with local hospitals affiliated with universities or medical schools to see which professionals are qualified to conduct an ADHD evaluation for adults. You may also ask the local ADHD support group for recommendations.
A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the number of, severity and duration of symptoms that affect particular areas of your life. These can include school, work and relationships. You might experience issues that result in you not performing at work or education, difficulties in maintaining and forming relationships, or being forgetful or disorganised. It is important to discuss these issues openly and not be hesitant to speak out against the fear of criticism.
There are a variety of healthcare professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment, from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To provide a formal diagnosis of ADHD it must be performed either by a qualified Psychiatrist, or a Special Nurse who is a Prescriber Qualified. Only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD.
You are typically questioned during an ADHD assessment and it is crucial to bring an adult family member to provide support or to show evidence. It is also helpful to write down your symptoms and how they have affected your life. The doctor will ask questions to find out more about your past and how you are currently functioning. They will also examine you to see whether 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 may take some time due to the long NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for a private treatment and evaluation through the "Right to Choose" route is simpler. But, it is important to remember that the quality of care offered by private providers is a lot different and it is crucial to choose your provider carefully.
Medication
It is beneficial to have a thorough and complete assessment if you struggle with ADHD symptoms as you age. This will allow you to get the right medication, and the help you require to manage the symptoms. There are many private providers of this service, but if you choose to go down this route it is essential to look into the reputation of the chosen psychiatrist and their knowledge and training with neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a number of celebrities have come out 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 make sense". NHS waiting lists are still full despite an increase in awareness.
As a result doctors are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services in the event of a private diagnosis of ADHD. In part, this is due to the fact that they don't have the time, and in certain instances, they might not be able to find a specialist who is knowledgeable in neurodevelopmental disorders. In some areas, the NHS staff may have to deal with other needs like mental health assessments.
Some people also believe that private providers of ADHD assessments over-diagnose people suffering from the condition. This could have devastating consequences for some. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue and there is a dire need to increase access to specialized ADHD assessments.
Once you have a private diagnosis of ADHD, it is possible to treat the disorder with the combination of treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant medications such as amphetamine and methylphenidate are utilized to enhance the ability to control impulses and attention, while slower acting non-stimulants like atomoxetine are helpful in enhancing focus and productivity.
Certain patients choose only the behavioural approach and do not require medication. Priory can put together a post-diagnostic care package for patients who require medication. This will include a comprehensive medical report and titration of the final dose, which can be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD may result in significant human and financial costs. This is why it is vital that a psychiatric assessment and treatment programme be accessible to all adults with ADHD. This should include medication and practical and psychological assistance and family therapy if appropriate. This should include both workplace and family education on how to better support 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 and any other mental health concerns they may have to their first appointment. This interview will examine the patient's medical and mental health history, as well as their family history. It will also examine the effects of ADHD on the individual's daily life and relationships.
During this process the doctor will check that the symptoms are consistent with the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must be present in two settings of the person's daily life (either home or work). It must interfere with their normal functioning and cause significant distress or impairment. This can take the form of a problem finding a job or managing finances or marriage, problems in school or their adhd assessment private overall quality of life.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are experts on 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 when necessary.
If the Psychiatrist decides that the person suffering from ADHD does need medication they will write a prescription and give it to a local pharmacy. This is done under the supervision of a Psychiatrist and should be completed within three months from the private assessment to ensure that the individual is able to be adjusted to their final dosage of medication. If the GP agrees that they will continue to prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD evaluation the Psychiatrist can provide a comprehensive report with treatment recommendations. They can also draw up an agreement known as a Shared Care Agreement.