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ADHD Diagnosis – Getting the Right One From the NHS The NHS requires that patients undergo a thorough assessment in order to receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics may be giving inaccurate diagnoses and prescribing inappropriate medication. A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms that are severe, their duration and impact. The physician will interview and review the patient's medical, psychiatric and family medical history. Diagnosis If you are an adult who believes that you are suffering from symptoms that could be related to ADHD, getting a diagnosis is the first step in finding treatment and gaining control over their lives. Whether they have an instinct that they may have the condition, or have had a family or friend member suggest they might have it, obtaining the right diagnosis can allow them to find the treatments and support to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively. The first thing patients should discuss their concerns with an GP. Discuss your symptoms with them and how they impact your daily life. The GP will refer them to an experienced mental health professional who has experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be a psychiatrist who has completed specialized training in this area. This is essential because it lets the psychiatrist be certain that they are using the right criteria to determine ADHD. The psychiatrist will request that the patient bring their partner or close family members and friends who are familiar with them. They must also take into account the patient's medical history and psychiatric past, starting from childhood. They will also take into consideration the severity of symptoms and the impact on the patient's daily life. There is no blood test or brain scan that can be used to confirm an ADHD diagnosis, so the psychiatrist will have to evaluate all the available information. If the psychiatrist feels that the patient doesn't meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnoses, they will be able to explain why. It could be that the patient didn't provide sufficient information about their problems or another medical condition is more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's issues stem from something else, rather than ADHD. Some people have a difficult in obtaining a diagnosis because of the prejudices of some healthcare professionals. This is particularly the case if they are an individual of color or assigned a female birth or not a native English native speaker. However, there is a growing awareness of this problem and the NHS is working on tackling the issue. The Assessment If you're concerned that you may have ADHD you should seek an assessment from a medical healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting these tests. You may ask your physician for a referral or consult with the local medical schools or hospitals to determine which professionals are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also request a referral from an ADHD support group in your area. 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. There are many reasons to be concerned about underachieving in school or work, having difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, or being unorganized or forgetful. It is crucial to talk about these issues openly and not hide from fear of criticism. There are a variety of healthcare professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment, from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. However, in adhd assessment uk private to be able to give a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD it must be performed by a qualified Psychiatrist, or a Prescriber Certified Specialist Nurse. This is because only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for the treatment of ADHD. In an ADHD assessment, you will be interviewed. It is crucial to bring a loved one with you to provide support or evidence. It is helpful to note down your symptoms, and how they affect your life. The doctor will ask questions to gather details about your past and current condition. They will also examine your body to determine if you have any medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms of ADHD. You can also obtain an adult adhd diagnosis through the NHS however it may take an extended time due to the clogged NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer to pay out of their own pockets for private assessments and treatments through the 'Right To Choose option. It is important to remember that the cost and quality of private care can vary greatly. Medication If you have been struggling with symptoms of ADHD as an adult it is a good idea to have a full and comprehensive assessment done. This will help you get the correct medication and support you need to manage your symptoms. There are numerous private companies that offer this service but, if you choose to pursue this option it is essential to investigate the reputation of your chosen psychiatrist and their knowledge and training with neurodevelopmental disorders. In recent months, a number of prominent people have come out about their struggles with ADHD. 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 overcrowded despite the increased awareness. Therefore, doctors are usually reluctant to refer patients to specialist services in the event of a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is largely because they lack the time or resources, and in some instances, they might not be able to locate a clinician who has expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, NHS personnel may be required to handle other requirements such as mental health assessments. There is also a perception that certain private providers of ADHD assessments are prone to over-diagnosing adults with the condition, which can have devastating consequences for some people. This concern was raised by the BBC Panorama program and there is an urgent need to improve access for ADHD assessments. Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD it is possible to treat it with a combination of treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant drugs like amphetamine and methylphenidate can be used to boost concentration and control of impulses as well as slower-acting non-stimulants like atomoxetine are helpful in improving focus and productivity. Certain patients choose only the behavioural approach, and do not need medication. For those who require medication, a post-diagnostic program of care can be created at Priory. 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 treatment 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 suffering from ADHD. This should include medication, psychological and practical assistance and family therapy where appropriate. This should include both workplace and family training on how to better assist and manage an adult with ADHD. The first step is to schedule an interview with a mental health professional who is certified to evaluate ADHD or other issues. Patients are required to bring a list with their symptoms and any other mental health issues they may have to their first appointment. The interview will look into the patient's medical and psychiatric history as well as their family history. It will also examine the impact of ADHD on the person's daily life and relationships. In this process the doctor will confirm that the symptoms match the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must manifest in two different environments (home or at work) of the person's daily life. It should interfere with the person's normal functioning, and cause distress. This could take the form a difficulty in keeping a job or dealing with marriage or finances, problems in school or in their general quality of life. Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are trained in the function of the brain, but they are unable to prescribe medications. They can only provide 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 has ADHD requires medication, he or she will write a prescription for local pharmacists. This is under the supervision of a Psychiatrist and should be completed within three months after the private assessment to ensure that the individual is able to fully titrated into their final dose of medication. If the GP agrees to continue NHS prescribing following the private ADHD assessment, the Psychiatrist will provide them with a an extensive report and treatment recommendations, and will draft an Shared Care Agreement with the GP.