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ADHD Diagnosis – Getting the Right One From the NHS The NHS requires that people undergo a thorough examination in order to receive a proper ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics might be handing an unreliable diagnosis or prescribing the wrong medications. A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on symptoms and their severity, duration, and impact. The doctor will interview and review the patient's medical, psychiatric and family history. Diagnosis For those who believe they have symptoms that could be related to ADHD being diagnosed is an essential step towards finding a treatment and gaining control over their lives. If they suspect they may have ADHD or they have a family member or a friend who has suggested it, a diagnosis can help them manage their symptoms. The first thing patients must do is discuss their concerns with the GP. They should be able to discuss their symptoms and how they impact their daily life. The GP will refer them to an experienced mental health professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist is one who has completed specialized training in this field. This is crucial because it lets the psychiatrist be certain that they are applying the correct criteria to determine ADHD. The psychiatrist will conduct an interview with the patient and may will ask them to bring their partner, or close relatives and friends who know them well. They must also consider the patient's medical history and psychiatric past, starting from childhood. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they have affected the patient's life. A brain scan or blood test cannot confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will have take into consideration all available information. If the psychiatrist doesn't think that the patient is meeting all the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis, they will explain the reason. It could be that the patient has not given enough detail about their issues, or it might be that another condition explains their behaviour better than ADHD. It could also be that the therapist believes that the patient's problems result from something else and not ADHD. Some people have a harder time getting a proper diagnosis due to the prejudices of some healthcare medical professionals. This is especially the case if they're a person of colour or a woman born at birth, or are not an English speaker. The NHS is working hard to tackle this problem. Assessment If you think you may be suffering from ADHD and are concerned, you should be evaluated 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 find out which professionals are qualified to conduct an ADHD evaluation for adults. You can also ask the local ADHD support group for recommendations. The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity and duration of symptoms in certain areas of your life. These include school, relationships and work. There are many reasons to be concerned about not performing well in school or at work, having difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, or being unorganized or forgetful. It is important to discuss these issues openly and not hide from the fear of criticism. From GPs and consultant psychiatrists There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment. To make iampsychiatry.uk of ADHD it must be done either by a qualified Psychiatrist or a qualified Prescriber Special Nurse. This is because only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for the treatment of ADHD. In an ADHD assessment you will be questioned. It is crucial to bring a family member with you to provide support or evidence. It is also helpful to note down your symptoms and how they have affected your life. The doctor will ask you questions to gather information about your background and how you are doing. They will also check your body to determine if you have any medical conditions that may be causing symptoms of ADHD. The NHS can also provide an adult adhd diagnosis privately, but this can take a very long time because of the overflowing NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for private treatment and assessment through the “Right to Choose” route is simpler. But it is crucial to remember that the quality of treatment offered by private providers is a lot different and that it is essential to select your provider with care. Medication It is a good thing to undergo a thorough and full assessment if you are experiencing ADHD symptoms as you age. This will enable you to receive the right medication and the help you require to manage your symptoms. There are many private companies that offer this service but, should you decide to go this route it is essential to research the reputation of your chosen psychiatrist and the level of their knowledge and training with neurodevelopmental disorders. In recent months, a number of prominent people have come out about their struggles with ADHD. For instance, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s and stated that the diagnosis “made everything seem more rational”. However, despite the increasing awareness, NHS waiting lists remain jam-packed with people who want to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment. In the end, GPs are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services for a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is partly because they don't have the time and, in some instances, they may be unable to locate a doctor who is skilled in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, NHS staff may have to deal with other needs such as mental health assessments. There is also a perception among some private providers of ADHD assessments are prone to over-diagnosing adults with the condition, which can cause severe harm to some people. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue and there is a real need to improve access to specialist 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 like amphetamine and methylphenidate can be used to improve concentration and productivity, whereas slower-acting non-stimulants like atomoxetine are beneficial for improving your attention and impulse control. Some patients opt for the behavioural approach and do not require medication. However, for those who need to take medication, a post-diagnostic program of care could be created at Priory. This will include a thorough medical report as well as a titration of the final dose, which could be shared with your GP. Post-diagnostic care A diagnosis of ADHD could be accompanied by significant human and financial costs. It is essential to conduct a psychiatric assessment and treatment plan for all adults with ADHD. This should include medications, psychological and practical assistance and family therapy if needed. This should also include the workplace and family members on how to better manage and support an adult with ADHD in their daily life. The first step is an interview with an expert in mental health care who is certified to evaluate ADHD and related conditions. Patients must bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health issues they may have to their first appointment. The interview will go over the patient's medical, psychiatric and family background. It will also examine how ADHD symptoms affect the individual's daily life and relationships. During this process the doctor will ensure that the symptoms are in line 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 individual's life (either home or work). It should affect the person's normal functioning, and cause a lot of distress. This could take the form of difficulties in keeping a job or dealing with marriage or finances or school issues, or in their general quality of life. There is a wide range of professionals who can perform an assessment for ADHD that includes Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists are trained in the functioning of the brain, however they cannot prescribe medication. They are able to provide advice. Psychiatrists are fully qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and may prescribe medication if needed. If the Psychiatrist determines that the patient with ADHD requires medication, he or she will prescribe a prescription to local pharmacists. This is done under the supervision and direction by the Psychiatrist. The procedure should be completed within three months following the private assessment. This will allow the individual to fully adjust their final dosage of medication. If the GP accepts to continue to prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD evaluation, the Psychiatrist can provide a comprehensive report that includes treatment recommendations. They can also draw up an agreement known as a Shared Care Agreement.