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ADHD Diagnosis – Getting the Right One From the NHS In order for people to receive an accurate diagnosis of ADHD the NHS requires a thorough evaluation. The BBC investigation found that some private clinics may be giving inaccurate diagnoses and prescribing inappropriate medications. A valid diagnosis for ADHD is determined by the severity, number of, duration and impact of symptoms. The physician will interview the patient and examine the medical, psychiatric, family, and personal background. Diagnosis If you are an adult who believes that you are suffering from symptoms that could be associated with ADHD and are seeking a diagnosis, it is the first step in getting treatment and taking control over their lives. If they suspect they may have ADHD or a family member or friend has suggested it, the diagnosis will aid in managing their symptoms. The first thing that patients must discuss their concerns with an GP. They must inform them of their symptoms and how they affect their daily life. The GP will refer them to an experienced mental health professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has received special training in this area. This is important because it lets the psychiatrist be sure that they're using the right criteria to determine ADHD. The psychiatrist will request that the patient bring their partner or close family members and acquaintances who are familiar with them. They will also have to consider the patient's medical history and mental health history, starting from childhood. They will also be looking at the severity of symptoms and the impact on the patient's daily life. A brain scan or blood test can't confirm the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will have take into consideration all available information. If the psychiatrist does not believe that the patient meets all the criteria required for an ADHD diagnosis the psychiatrist will explain the reason. It could be that the patient has not given sufficient detail about their difficulties, or it might be that another medical condition is responsible for their behaviour better than ADHD. It could also be the case that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's problems are due to something else and not due to the condition. Some people have a harder to receive a correct diagnosis because of the prejudices of certain healthcare professionals. This is especially true if you are a person who is of color or a woman born, or do not speak English natively. However, there is a growing awareness of this issue and the NHS is trying to tackle it. Assessment If you're concerned that you may have ADHD you should get an assessment from a medical care professional who is experienced in conducting these tests. You can ask your doctor for a referral or check with the local medical schools or hospitals to find out who is qualified to conduct an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also ask an individual from your local ADHD support group for a referral. A diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number of, severity and duration of symptoms that impact specific areas of your life. These include relationships, school and work. There are many reasons to be concerned about not performing well in school or at working, having difficulties forming and maintaining relationships, or being forgetful or unorganised. It is important to discuss these issues and not be afraid to take criticism. There are a myriad of healthcare professionals that are able to conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultants psychiatrists. To provide a formal diagnosis of ADHD it must be done either by a qualified Psychiatrist or a qualified Prescriber Special Nurse. Only a Psychiatrist can prescribe medication for ADHD. You are usually questioned during an ADHD assessment, and it is important to bring along a family member for support or to show evidence. It is also beneficial to write down your symptoms and how they have affected your life. The doctor will ask you questions to collect information about your history and current condition. They will also examine your body to determine if you have any medical conditions that could be causing symptoms of ADHD. You can also access an adult adhd private diagnosis through the NHS however it may take some time due to the long NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer to pay out of their own pocket for an assessment and treatment that is private via the 'Right to Choice option. However, it is important to be aware that the quality of care offered by private practitioners varies widely and it is crucial that you choose carefully. Medication It is a good thing to get a comprehensive and full assessment if you are struggling with ADHD symptoms into adulthood. This will help you get the correct medication and help you require to manage your symptoms. There are many private providers that offer this service. If you choose to go with one of them, it is important that you research the reputation of the psychiatrist, their training, and their experience in dealing neurodevelopmental disorders. A high number of public figures have been open 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 claimed that the diagnosis “made everything seem to make sense”. NHS waiting lists are still full despite increased awareness. Therefore, doctors are usually reluctant to refer patients to specialist services to confirm a diagnosis of ADHD. This is partly because they lack the time and in some instances, they may be unable to locate a doctor with expertise in neurodevelopmental conditions. In certain areas, NHS personnel may be required to handle other requirements like mental health assessments. There are those who believe that private companies offering ADHD assessments are unable to accurately diagnose adults with the condition. This can have devastating effects for certain. private adhd assessment uk raised this issue and there is a dire need to increase access to specialist ADHD tests. If you've been diagnosed as having ADHD, you can treat it by combining treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant drugs such as amphetamine or methylphenidate can be used to improve concentration and productivity, whereas non-stimulants that are slower-acting like atomoxetine can be useful for improving attention and impulse control. Some patients choose to only employ behavioural therapy and do not require medication. For those who need to take medication, a post-diagnostic plan of care can be created at Priory. This includes a detailed medical report and titration of the final dosage, which can be shared with your GP. Post-diagnostic care A diagnosis of ADHD may be accompanied by significant human and financial costs. This is why it is vital that a psychiatric examination and treatment program is accessible to all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication as well as psychological and practical support and family therapy if needed. This should include both workplace and family education on how to better assist and manage an adult with ADHD. The first step is to schedule an appointment with a mental health professional who is qualified to assess ADHD or other disorders. Patients must bring a list of their symptoms as well as any other mental health concerns 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 look at the effects of ADHD on the person's everyday life and relationships. During this procedure the doctor will confirm that the symptoms meet the criteria for ADHD that are 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 must affect their normal functioning and cause distress or impairment. This can be in the form a difficulty in keeping a job or managing finances or marriage or school issues, or their general quality of life. There are a variety of professionals that can carry out an assessment for ADHD such as Psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychologists are experts on how the brain works however, they are not qualified to prescribe medications, therefore they cannot recommend counseling. Psychologists are able to diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication when necessary. If the Psychiatrist is of the opinion that the patient with ADHD requires medication, they will prescribe a prescription to local pharmacists. This is under the supervision of a psychiatrist and must be completed within three months from 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 prescribing ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD assessment The Psychiatrist will provide a thorough report that includes treatment recommendations. They will also draw up a Shared Care Agreement.