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ADHD Diagnosis – Getting the Right One From the NHS The NHS requires that people undergo a thorough examination for an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics could be giving an unreliable diagnosis or prescribing the wrong medication. A valid diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the severity, number of, duration and impact of symptoms. The doctor will interview the individual and go over the medical or psychiatric history, as well as family and personal history. Diagnosis For adults who feel they have symptoms that could be associated with ADHD and are seeking a diagnosis, it is a key step to finding treatment and gaining control of their lives. If they believe they suffer from ADHD, or if a family member or friend has suggested it, obtaining an assessment can aid in managing their symptoms. The first thing patients should discuss their issues with the GP. They should tell them about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. The doctor will refer them to a seasoned mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has undergone special training in this area. This is crucial because it means that the psychiatrist will be certain that they have used the correct criteria to diagnose ADHD. The psychiatrist will request that the patient bring their spouse or family members and friends who are familiar to them. They will also have to consider the patient's medical history and the psychiatric history, beginning from childhood. They will also be looking at the severity of the symptoms and the effects on the patient's life. A brain scan or blood test will not confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will have to consider all the available information available. If the psychiatrist feels that the patient does not meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnoses and will then be able to explain why. It could be because the patient didn't give enough details about their problems or another condition could be more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's issues are due to something else, and not ADHD. Certain people find it difficult to receive a correct diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain health experts. This is particularly the case when they are a person of colour, assigned female at birth, or are not an English native speaker. However there is a growing awareness of the issue and the NHS is working to address it. Assessment If you are concerned that you might be suffering from ADHD you should get an assessment from a medical healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting such assessments. You may ask your physician for a recommendation or check with local hospitals affiliated with universities or medical schools to determine the professionals who are certified to perform an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also contact an individual from your local ADHD support group for an appointment. A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the amount of, severity and duration of symptoms that affect particular areas of your life. This could include work, school and relationships. There are many reasons to be concerned about being unable to perform at school or at work, or having trouble creating and maintaining relationships or being forgetful or unorganised. It is important to discuss these problems openly and not be hesitant to speak out against the fear of being criticized. There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To give a definitive diagnosis of ADHD it should be carried out either by a Psychiatrist who is qualified or a Special Nurse who is a Prescriber Qualified. Only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD. You will usually be interviewed during an ADHD evaluation, and it is important to bring along a family member for support or evidence. It is also helpful to record your symptoms and how they've affected your life. The doctor will ask questions to find out more about your history and how you are currently functioning. They will also examine you to determine if you have any medical conditions that may be the cause of your ADHD symptoms. private adult adhd assessment can also obtain an adult adhd diagnosis through the NHS however, it could take an extended time due to the clogged NHS waiting lists. Some people find that paying out of pocket for private treatment and evaluation through the “Right to Choose” option is more convenient. It is important to keep in mind that the quality and price of private healthcare can differ dramatically. Medication It is recommended to get a comprehensive and thorough assessment if struggle with ADHD symptoms as you age. This will help you get the right medication and assistance you require to manage your symptoms. There are many private providers who provide this service. If you decide to choose one of them, it is essential to investigate the reputation of the psychiatrist, their education and experience in treating neurodevelopmental disorders. A lot of public figures have spoken out about their struggles with ADHD in recent months. For example, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s and stated that the diagnosis “made everything make sense”. NHS waiting lists are still overcrowded despite the an increase in awareness. To avoid this, doctors often hesitate to refer their patients to specialist services to obtain a private ADHD diagnosis. This is largely due to the fact that they don't have the time, and in certain instances, they might not be able to locate an expert clinician in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, NHS staff may have to deal with other needs such as mental health assessments. Some people also believe that private companies offering ADHD assessments are too quick to diagnose those suffering from the condition. This could have devastating consequences for some. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue and there is a real need to increase access to specialized ADHD assessments. Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD it is possible to treat it using a combination therapy for behavioural issues and medication. Stimulant medications such as amphetamine and methylphenidate can be used to improve the ability to control impulses and attention and control, while non-stimulants with slower effects such as atomoxetine could be helpful in enhancing concentration and productivity. Some patients opt to utilize behavioural therapy and do not require medication. Priory can create a post-diagnostic care package for patients who require medication. This includes a detailed report as well as a titration for the final dose which can be shared with your GP. Post-diagnostic treatment A diagnosis of ADHD can have significant financial and human costs. This is why it is so important that a psychiatric evaluation and treatment program be made available to all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication as well as psychological and practical support and family therapy if needed. This should also extend to the workplace and family members on how to better manage and assist an adult with ADHD in their daily lives. The first step is an interview with a mental health professional who is certified to evaluate ADHD and other related disorders. Patients must bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health issues they have to the initial appointment. The interview will cover the patient's medical, psychiatric, and family background. It will also discuss the effects of ADHD on the person's everyday life and relationships. During this examination, 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 must appear in two different places (home or at work) of the individual's daily life. It should affect the person's normal functioning and cause distress. This may be in the form of having difficulty getting a job, problems in marriage, or having to deal with financial issues, difficulties at school or in their overall level of living. There are a range of professionals who can perform an assessment for ADHD such as Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Psychologists are trained in the functioning of the brain, however they are unable to prescribe medications. They are able to provide counselling. Psychologists are qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD and may prescribe medications if required. If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the person with ADHD is in need of medication, they will prescribe the medication and give it to the local pharmacy. This is under the supervision of the doctor and should be completed within three months after the private assessment to ensure that the individual has time to be fully adjusted to their final dose of medication. If the GP accepts to continue NHS prescribing after the private ADHD assessment The Psychiatrist will provide them with a an extensive report and treatment recommendations and will create an Shared Care Agreement with the GP.