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ADHD Diagnosis – Getting the Right One From the NHS The NHS requires that patients undergo a thorough examination in order to get a proper ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that some private clinics might be handing inaccurate diagnoses and prescribing inappropriate medications. A legitimate diagnosis for ADHD is based on the severity, number, duration and impact of symptoms. The physician will interview and analyze the patient's medical, mental health and family medical history. Diagnosis Adults who experience symptoms that they believe might be ADHD should seek out a diagnosis to determine the best treatment and gain control of their life. If they are aware that they might be suffering from the disorder, or have had a friend or family member suggest they might have it, obtaining the correct diagnosis can help them find the appropriate treatment and help to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively. Patients must first discuss their issues with an GP. Tell them about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. The GP will refer them to an experienced mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist must be psychiatrist who has completed specialist training in this field. This is crucial because it allows the psychiatrist to be sure that they're applying the correct criteria to determine ADHD. The psychiatrist will talk to the patient and often will ask them to bring their spouse, or close friends and relatives who are familiar with them. They must also consider the patient's medical history as well as the psychiatric history, beginning from childhood. They will also be looking at the severity of the symptoms and their effects on the patient's life. There isn't a blood test or brain scan that can be used to confirm the ADHD diagnosis Therefore, the psychiatrist will need to assess all of the information available. If the psychiatrist doesn't think that the patient is meeting all the criteria required for an ADHD diagnosis, they will explain the reasons. Iam Psychiatry could be that the patient did not provide sufficient information about their issues or another medical condition is more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the doctor believes that the patient's issues stem from something else, rather than ADHD. Some people have a difficult to receive a correct diagnosis due to the prejudices of some healthcare professionals. This is especially relevant if you're an individual of color or a woman born, or do not speak English natively. However there is a growing awareness of the issue and the NHS is working on tackling the issue. Assessment If you suspect that you may be suffering from ADHD and are concerned, you should have an assessment by a healthcare professional who has experience in such assessments. You can ask your personal physician for a recommendation or check with local hospitals affiliated with universities or medical schools to find out which professionals are qualified to perform an ADHD evaluation for adults. You may also ask a local ADHD support group for an appointment. A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the number severity, duration and severity of symptoms that affect particular areas of your life. This includes relationships, school and work. You may have problems with underachieving in school or working, having difficulties forming and maintaining relationships, or being forgetful or unorganised. It is crucial to talk about these problems and not be afraid of criticism. From GPs to psychiatrists who consult There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment. To give a definitive diagnosis of ADHD it must be done by a qualified Psychiatrist, or a Special Nurse who is a Prescriber Qualified. This is because only a Psychiatrist can prescribe medication for the treatment of ADHD. You are typically questioned during an ADHD assessment and it is essential to bring along a family member for support or to show evidence. It is important to write your symptoms and how they affect your life. The doctor will ask you questions to discover more about your history and present functioning. They will also examine your body to determine if you have any medical conditions which could be causing symptoms of ADHD. The NHS can also provide an adult adhd diagnosis privately, but this can take a considerable amount of time due to the overflowing NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer to pay out of their own pocket for an assessment and treatment that is private via the 'Right to Choice' pathway. It is important to remember that the quality and price of private care can vary dramatically. Medication It is beneficial to get a comprehensive and complete assessment if you struggle with ADHD symptoms into adulthood. This will enable you to receive the right medication and the assistance you require to manage your symptoms. There are numerous private companies that offer this service. However, should you decide to pursue this option, it is important to investigate the reputation of the chosen psychiatrist and their training and experience in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders. In recent months, a number of prominent people have come out about their struggles with ADHD. For example, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s and stated that her diagnosis “made everything seem more rational”. But, despite increasing awareness, NHS waiting lists remain full of people wanting to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment. In order to avoid this, GPs often are reluctant to refer patients to specialist services for a private ADHD diagnosis. This is partly because they lack the time and in certain instances they may not be able to locate a doctor with expertise in neurodevelopmental conditions. In some areas, this is exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff are often assigned other requirements such as mental health assessments. There are those who believe that private providers of ADHD assessments over-diagnose adults with the condition. This could result in devastating consequences for some. The BBC Panorama programme raised this concern and there is a pressing need to increase accessibility to specialist ADHD assessments. Once you have a private diagnosis of ADHD, it is possible to treat the disorder using a combination of treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant medications such as amphetamine and methylphenidate can be utilized to boost attention and impulse control as well as slower-acting non-stimulants such as atomoxetine can be helpful in improving concentration and productivity. Some patients only choose behavioural therapy and do not require medication. Priory can create a post-diagnostic treatment package for patients who require medication. This will include a thorough medical report as well as a titration of the final dosage, which can be shared with your GP. Post-diagnostic care 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 plan for all adults with ADHD. This should include medications, psychological and practical support and family therapy when appropriate. This should also include workplace and family education on how to better manage and support an adult with ADHD in their daily lives. The first step involves an interview with a mental healthcare professional who is qualified to assess ADHD or other issues. Patients must be prepared to bring a written record of their symptoms, as well as any other mental health issues to the first appointment. This appointment will review the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history. It will also look at how the ADHD symptoms affect the person's daily functioning and how they affect their relationships. During this procedure, 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 symptom must be evident in two places of the individual's life (either at home or at work). It should affect the person's normal functioning, and cause significant distress. This could take the form of difficulties in getting a job, problems with marriage, or dealing with financial issues, difficulties at school or in their overall quality of life. There are a variety of professionals that can perform an assessment for ADHD that includes Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists know how the brain works however, they are not qualified to prescribe medications, so can only suggest counselling. Psychiatrists are fully qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and offer medication if needed. If the Psychiatrist determines that the patient has ADHD needs medication, they will prescribe a prescription to a local pharmacist. This is done under the supervision and guidance by the Psychiatrist. The procedure should be completed within three months from the private assessment. This will allow the individual to fully titrate into their final dosage of medication. If the GP accepts to continue to prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD assessment, the Psychiatrist will provide a thorough report that includes treatment recommendations. They will also draft the Shared Care Agreement.