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ADHD Diagnosis – Getting the Right One From the NHS In order for people to receive a proper diagnosis for ADHD, the NHS requires a thorough assessment. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics could provide inaccurate diagnoses and prescriptions. A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms that are severe, their duration, and impact. The clinician will interview and examine the patient's medical, mental health and family medical history. Diagnosis Adults with symptoms they believe may be ADHD should seek out a diagnosis to determine the best treatment and take control of their lives. If they suspect they may have ADHD, or if a family member or friend has suggested it, obtaining a diagnosis can help them manage their symptoms. The first thing patients need to discuss their concerns with a GP. They should be able to discuss their symptoms and how they impact their daily life. The GP will refer them to a seasoned mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist is a psychiatrist who has completed specialized training in this field. This is important as it means that the psychiatrist will be sure that they have used the correct criteria to diagnose ADHD. The psychiatrist will conduct an interview with the patient and may request their spouse, or close relatives and friends who are familiar with them. They'll also need to examine the patient's medical and mental background from childhood to now. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they have impacted the patient's lifestyle. A brain scan or blood test can't confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will have take into consideration all available information available. If the psychiatrist does not think that the patient is meeting all the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis the psychiatrist will explain the reasons. It could be that the patient did not provide sufficient information about their problems or another condition better explains their behavior than ADHD. Alternatively, it might be that the psychiatrist feels that the patient's problems are caused by something else and not due to the condition. Certain people find it difficult to obtain a diagnosis due to the prejudices of certain healthcare professionals. This is especially the case when they are someone of color or assigned a female birth, or are not an English speaker. However there is an increasing awareness of the issue and the NHS is trying to tackle the issue. Assessment If you are concerned that you may have ADHD you should get an assessment from a health healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting such assessments. You could ask your doctor for a referral or consult with the local medical schools or hospitals to find out which professionals are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. private adhd assessment london can also contact an individual from your local ADHD support group for recommendations. The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the severity, number, and duration of symptoms in specific areas of your life. These could include work, school and relationships. There are times when you may face problems with regards to not performing in school or work, difficulties in forming and maintaining 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 being criticized. There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultants psychiatrists. To make a formal diagnosis of ADHD it should be carried out by a qualified Psychiatrist or a qualified Prescriber Special Nurse. Only a Psychiatrist can prescribe medication for ADHD. During an ADHD evaluation, you will be interviewed. It is important to bring a loved one with you to provide support or evidence. It is beneficial to write down your symptoms, and how they affect your life. The doctor will ask you questions to gather information about your history and your current functioning. They will also check you to see whether there are any medical conditions that could be causing your ADHD symptoms. The NHS can also provide a private adult adhd diagnosis however, this could take a considerable amount of time due to the overflowing NHS waiting lists. Some people find that paying out of pocket for a private treatment or assessment via the “Right to Choose” option is more convenient. It is important to remember that the quality and cost of private care can vary greatly. Medication It is beneficial to get a comprehensive and full assessment if you struggle with ADHD symptoms into adulthood. This will help you get the right medication and the assistance you require to manage your symptoms. There are a variety of private providers of this service but, if you choose to pursue this option it is crucial to look into the reputation of the selected psychiatrist, as well as their training and experience in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders. In recent months, a lot 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 the diagnosis “made everything seem more rational”. However, despite the increased awareness, NHS waiting lists remain full of people who want to get the right diagnosis and treatment. In the end, GPs are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services in the event of a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is largely because they don't have the time, and in certain cases, they may not be able to find an expert clinician in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, NHS staff may have to deal with other needs like mental health assessments. There are those who believe that private companies offering ADHD assessments over-diagnose adults with the condition. This could have devastating effects for some. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue, and there is a real need to improve access to specialized ADHD assessments. If you've been diagnosed as having ADHD, you can treat it using a combination behavioural therapy and medication. Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and amphetamine can be used to enhance the ability to control impulses and attention as well as slower-acting non-stimulants like atomoxetine are beneficial in improving concentration and productivity. Some patients opt for behavioural therapy and do not require medication. Priory can put together a post-diagnostic treatment package for patients who require medication. This will include a comprehensive report and titration for the final dose that can be shared with your GP. Post-diagnostic care A diagnosis of ADHD can have significant financial and human costs. This is why it is so important that a psychiatric examination and treatment program is made available to all adults with ADHD. This should include medication and practical and psychological support as well as therapy for families if it is appropriate. This should also extend to family and workplace education about 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 qualified to assess ADHD or other issues. Patients should bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health concerns they have to this first appointment. The interview will look into the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history. It will also look at how ADHD symptoms affect the person's daily functioning and their relationships. In this process the doctor will confirm that the symptoms are in line with the criteria for ADHD that are defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must be present in two settings of the person's life (either at home or at work). It should affect their normal functioning and result in significant distress or impairment. 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 level of living. Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are experts on how the brain works, but are not qualified to prescribe medications, therefore they can only recommend counselling. Psychologists are qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD, and can offer medications if required. If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the patient with ADHD does need medication, they will prescribe the medication and give it to the local pharmacy. This is done under the supervision and direction of the Psychiatrist. It should be completed within three months after the private assessment. This will allow the patient to fully titrate 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 a complete report and treatment recommendations and will create a Shared Care Agreement with the GP.