ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHS<br /><br />For people to get an accurate diagnosis for ADHD the NHS requires a thorough evaluation. The BBC investigation found that certain private clinics could be distributing inaccurate diagnoses and prescriptions.<br /><br />A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on symptoms that are severe, their duration and impact. The physician will interview the patient and review the medical or psychiatric history, as well as family and personal background.<br /><br />Diagnosis<br /><br />Adults who experience symptoms that they believe may be ADHD should look for a diagnosis in order to find the appropriate treatment and take control of their lives. If they suspect they may have ADHD or someone in their family or a friend has suggested it, the diagnosis will help them manage their symptoms.<br /><br />The first thing that patients should do is discuss their concerns with a GP. Inform them of your symptoms and how they impact your daily routine. The doctor will refer them to an expert mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be a seasoned psychiatrist who has undergone special training in this area. This is crucial because it lets the psychiatrist be sure that they're applying the correct criteria to determine ADHD.<br /><br />The psychiatrist will ask the patient to bring their partner or close family members and acquaintances who are familiar with them. They will also need to look at the patient's medical and psychiatric background from childhood to now. They will also be looking at the severity of the symptoms and the impact on the patient's daily life. A brain scan or blood test can't confirm an ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need to consider all the available information.<br /><br />If the psychiatrist believes 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 has not given sufficient details about their problems, or it might be that a different condition is responsible for their behaviour better than ADHD. Alternatively, it might be that the doctor believes that the patient's issues are caused by something else and not the ADHD condition.<br /><br />Certain people have a tougher to receive a correct diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain healthcare experts. This is especially relevant if you're someone of color or a woman who was born or do not speak English natively. The NHS is trying its best to address this issue.<br /><br />Assessment<br /><br />If you are concerned you might be suffering from ADHD you should seek an assessment from a medical healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting such assessments. You could ask your doctor for a referral or check with local medical schools or hospitals to find out which professionals are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also ask an individual from your local ADHD support group for a referral.<br /><br />The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity, and duration of symptoms in particular areas of life. These can include school, work and relationships. You may have problems with underachieving in school or working, having difficulties creating and maintaining relationships or being forgetful or unorganised. It is important to discuss these issues openly and not hide from the fear of being criticized.<br /><br />There are a myriad of healthcare professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment, from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To make a formal diagnosis of ADHD it must be done either by a qualified Psychiatrist or a qualified Prescriber Special Nurse. Only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD.<br /><br />You will usually be interviewed during an ADHD assessment and it is essential to bring along someone from your family to offer assistance or to provide evidence. It is also helpful to write down your symptoms and how they've affected your life. The doctor will ask you questions to gather details about your past and your current functioning. They will also check you to determine if you have any medical conditions that may be responsible for your ADHD symptoms.<br /><br />You can also get an adult adhd private diagnosis through the NHS, but it can take a long 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" pathway is easier. But, it is important to be aware that the quality of care from private providers is a lot different and it is vital that you choose carefully.<br /><br />Medication<br /><br />If you've struggled with symptoms of ADHD as an adult it is a great idea to have a full and comprehensive assessment done. This will help you get the right medication and assistance you require to manage your symptoms. There are many private companies that offer this service. If you decide to choose one of them, it is crucial to research the reputation of the psychiatrist, their training and experience managing neurodevelopmental disorders.<br /><br />In recent months, a number of public figures have spoken out about their struggles with ADHD. Sue Perkins, the host of the Great British Bake Off, was diagnosed with ADHD in her 50s. She stated that this diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". However, despite the increased awareness, NHS waiting lists remain overflowing with people who want to get the right diagnosis and treatment.<br /><br />As a result doctors are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services to confirm a diagnosis of ADHD. This is due to the fact that they do not have the time or resources and, in certain instances, they may be unable to locate a specialist who is skilled in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, NHS staff may have to handle other requirements such as mental health assessments.<br /><br />There is also a perception that some private companies offering ADHD assessments are over-diagnosing adults with the condition, which can have devastating consequences for some people. This issue was brought up by the BBC Panorama program and there is an urgent need to increase access to ADHD tests.<br /><br />Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD and you've been diagnosed, you can treat it by combining therapy for behavioural issues and medication. Stimulant drugs like amphetamine and methylphenidate can be used to improve attention and impulse control, while slower acting non-stimulants such as atomoxetine could be helpful in improving concentration and productivity.<br /><br />Some patients only choose behavioural therapy and do not require medication. For those who require medication, a post-diagnostic plan of care can be put together at Priory. This includes a detailed medical report as well as a titration of the final dosage, which can be shared with your GP.<br /><br />Post-diagnostic care<br /><br /><br /><br />A diagnosis of ADHD can be a significant one for both the human and financial costs. It is important to provide a psychiatric evaluation and treatment program for all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication as well as psychological and practical support and family therapy when appropriate. This should include family and workplace education on how to better assist and manage an adult suffering from ADHD.<br /><br />The first step is to interview with a mental health professional who is certified to evaluate ADHD and related conditions. Patients are required to bring a list with their symptoms as well as any other mental health issues 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. <a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/private-adult-adhd-assessments/">adhd private assessment</a> will also examine how the ADHD symptoms affect the individual's daily life and relationships.<br /><br />During this procedure, 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 has to be present in two places of the person's life (either at home or at work). It must interfere with the person's normal functioning and cause significant distress. This could take the form of a problem in keeping a job or managing finances or marriage or school problems, or in their overall quality of living.<br /><br />Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are educated in the functioning of the brain, however they cannot prescribe medication. They can only offer counselling. Psychologists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication when needed.<br /><br />If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the person suffering from ADHD requires medication they will write a prescription and supply it to the local pharmacy. This is under the supervision of a psychiatrist and should be completed within three months after the private assessment to ensure that the person is able to fully adjusted to their final dose of medication. If the GP accepts to continue prescribing ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD assessment the Psychiatrist can provide a comprehensive report with treatment recommendations. They can also draft the Shared Care Agreement.<br /><br />