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ADHD Diagnosis – Getting the Right One From the NHS The NHS requires that patients undergo a thorough evaluation for an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation found that some private clinics might be handing inaccurate diagnoses and prescribing inappropriate medications. A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms, their severity, duration, and impact. The clinician will interview the individual and examine the medical, psychiatric, family and personal background. Diagnosis Adults who experience symptoms that they believe might be ADHD should seek out a diagnosis to determine the appropriate treatment and gain control of their life. If they believe they suffer from ADHD or someone in their family or a friend has suggested it, getting the diagnosis will aid in managing their symptoms. Patients must first discuss their issues with a GP. They should tell them about their symptoms and how they affect their daily life. The GP will recommend them to a skilled mental health professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be a seasoned psychiatrist who has received specific training in the field. This is essential because it lets the psychiatrist be confident that they're applying the correct criteria to determine ADHD. The psychiatrist will interview the patient and may ask them to bring in their partner, or close relatives and friends who are familiar with them. They will also need to consider the patient's medical and psychiatric history from childhood onwards. They will also take into consideration the severity of the symptoms and the impact on the patient's life. A brain scan or blood test cannot confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need to consider all the available information. If the psychiatrist feels 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 did not give enough details about their difficulties or that another medical condition is more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the therapist believes that the patient's problems result from something else rather than ADHD. Some people have a harder in obtaining a diagnosis due to the prejudices of certain healthcare experts. This is especially the case when they are a person of colour or a woman born at birth, or are not an English native speaker. However, there is a growing awareness of this problem and the NHS is trying to tackle the issue. The Assessment If you suspect that you might have ADHD and are concerned, you should seek an evaluation by a healthcare professional who has experience in such tests. You can ask your doctor to refer you 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 the local ADHD support group for a referral. A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the number of, severity and duration of symptoms that affect specific areas of your life. These can include school, work and relationships. There are many reasons to be concerned about underachieving in school or work, or having trouble forming and maintaining relationships, or being forgetful or unorganised. It is important to discuss these problems openly and not hide from fear of criticism. From GPs to psychiatrists who consult There are a myriad of healthcare professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment. To provide a formal diagnosis of ADHD it should be carried out by a qualified Psychiatrist or a qualified Prescriber Special Nurse. This is because only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication to treat symptoms of ADHD. You will usually be interviewed during an ADHD assessment and it is crucial to bring a family member for support or to show evidence. It is important to write the symptoms you experience and how they affect your life. The doctor will ask questions to discover more about your life experiences and how you are functioning. They will also check you to determine if you have any medical conditions that could be causing your ADHD symptoms. The NHS can also provide an adult adhd diagnosis that is private however this could take a considerable amount of time due to the backed up NHS waiting lists. Some people find it easier to pay out of their own pockets for a private assessment and treatment via the 'Right to Choice option. It is important to keep in mind that the cost and quality of private care can vary dramatically. Medication If you've been struggling with symptoms of ADHD in adulthood it is a great idea to have a complete and thorough assessment. This will help you receive the correct medication and the support that you need to manage symptoms. There are a variety of private companies that offer this service. However, if you choose to go down this route it is essential to research the reputation of the selected psychiatrist, as well as their training and experience in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders. A large number of celebrities have spoken out about their struggles with ADHD in recent months. 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”. NHS waiting lists are full despite increased awareness. In the end, doctors are usually reluctant to refer patients to specialist services for a private diagnosis of ADHD. In part, this is because they lack the time, and in certain cases they may not be able to find a specialist who is knowledgeable in neurodevelopmental disorders. In some areas, the NHS staff might have to address other needs such as mental health assessments. There is also a perception among some private companies offering ADHD assessments are prone to misdiagnosing people with the condition, which can result in devastating consequences for certain people. This issue was brought up by the BBC Panorama program and there is a pressing need to increase access to ADHD assessments. Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD and you've been diagnosed, you can treat it using a combination treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant medications such as amphetamine and methylphenidate can be used to enhance concentration and control of impulses and control, while non-stimulants with slower effects like atomoxetine are helpful in enhancing focus and productivity. Some patients opt to utilize behavioural therapy and do not require medication. Priory can put together an after-diagnostic care plan for patients who require medication. This includes a detailed medical report and titration of the final dose, which can be shared with your GP. Post-diagnostic treatment A diagnosis of ADHD may have significant financial and human costs. It is important to provide a psychiatric evaluation and treatment program for all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medications, psychological and practical support and family therapy when appropriate. This should also extend to the workplace and family members on how to better manage and assist an adult with ADHD in their daily life. The first step is an interview with a mental health professional who is trained to assess ADHD and related conditions. Patients should bring a written list of their symptoms, as well as any other mental health concerns to the first appointment. The interview will cover the patient's medical, mental health and family history. click through the next document will also discuss how ADHD symptoms affect the individual's daily functioning and how they affect their relationships. During this process the doctor will ensure that the symptoms match the criteria for ADHD defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom has to be present in two settings of the individual's life (either home or work). It should affect the person's normal functioning and cause a lot of distress. This may be in the form of difficulty keeping a job, trouble in marriage, or having to deal with finances, issues at school or in their overall quality of life. Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are educated in the functioning of the brain, but they are unable to prescribe medications. They can only provide counseling. Psychologists are qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and offer medication if needed. If the Psychiatrist determines that the person with ADHD requires medication, they will write a prescription and give it to the local pharmacy. This is under the supervision of a psychiatrist and should be completed within three months of the private assessment to ensure that the individual is able to be titrated into their final dosage of medication. If the GP accepts to continue NHS prescribing following the private ADHD assessment The Psychiatrist will provide them with complete report and treatment recommendations and will draw up an Shared Care Agreement with the GP.