ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHSThe NHS requires that people undergo a thorough evaluation for an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation found that certain private clinics could provide incorrect diagnoses and medications.A reliable diagnosis for ADHD is based on the severity, number, duration and impact of symptoms. The doctor will interview the individual and go over the medical, psychiatric, family, and personal background.DiagnosisIf you are an adult who believes that you have symptoms that could be related to ADHD being diagnosed is the first step in getting treatment and taking control of their lives. Whether they have an instinct that they might have the disorder, or have had a family or friend member suggest they might have it, getting the right diagnosis can help them discover the treatment and support needed to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.The first thing patients should discuss their issues with an GP. They should tell them about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. The doctor will refer them to a specialist mental health professional who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has had specialist training in the area. This is important as it means that the psychiatrist will be certain that they are using the correct criteria to diagnose ADHD.The psychiatrist will talk to the patient and often will ask them to bring their spouse, or close friends and relatives who are familiar with them. They will also need to look at the patient's medical and psychiatric history from childhood onwards. They will also consider the severity of symptoms and the impact on the patient's daily life. A brain scan or blood test will not confirm an ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will need to consider all the available information.If the psychiatrist doesn't feel that the patient meets all of the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and they explain why. It could be that the patient hasn't provided sufficient details about their problems, or it might be that another medical condition is responsible for their behavior more effectively than ADHD. It could also be that the therapist believes that the patient's difficulties are due to something else, and not ADHD.Certain people find it difficult to receive a correct diagnosis because of the prejudices held by some health experts. This is particularly the case when they are someone of color or assigned a female birth, or are not an English native speaker. However there is a growing awareness of this issue and the NHS is trying to tackle the issue.AssessmentIf you are concerned that you may have ADHD you should seek an assessment from a medical healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting such assessments. You may ask your physician to refer you or check with the local medical schools or hospitals to find out the professionals who 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 dependent on the amount of, severity and duration of symptoms that affect specific areas of your life. These can include work, school and relationships. You may have problems with being unable to perform at school or at working, having difficulties forming and maintaining relationships, or being unorganized or forgetful. It is essential to discuss these problems openly and not hide from the fear of criticism.There are a myriad of healthcare professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. However, to be able to give a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD it must be conducted by a qualified Psychiatrist or a Prescriber qualified specialist nurse. Only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD.You will usually be interviewed during an ADHD assessment, and it is important to bring along an adult family member to provide support or to show evidence. It is important to write down your symptoms, and how they impact your life. The doctor will ask questions to find out more about your past and how you are currently functioning. They will also examine you to determine if there are any medical conditions that may be the cause of your ADHD symptoms.You can also get an adult adhd diagnosis through the NHS however it may take some time due to the clogged NHS waiting lists. Some people find that paying out of pocket for private treatment and assessment through the "Right to Choose" option is more convenient. It is important to keep in mind that the quality and price of private care can vary dramatically.MedicationIt is recommended to have a thorough and full assessment if you are experiencing ADHD symptoms into adulthood. This will enable you to get the right medication, and the assistance you need to manage symptoms. There are a variety of private providers who offer this service. If you decide to use one of them, it is crucial to research the reputation of the psychiatrist, their training and experience in dealing neurodevelopmental disorders.In recent months, a number of public figures have come out about their struggles with ADHD. For instance, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s, and claimed that her diagnosis "made everything make sense". NHS waiting lists are still crowded despite increased awareness.To avoid this, doctors often hesitate to refer their patients to specialist services in order to obtain a private ADHD diagnosis. In part, this is due to the fact that they don't have the time, and in some instances, they might not be able find an expert clinician in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, this is made worse by the fact that NHS staff could be assigned other needs such as mental health assessments.There is also a perception that certain private providers of ADHD assessments are prone to misdiagnosing people with the condition, which can result in devastating consequences for certain people. This issue was brought up by the BBC Panorama program and there is a need to improve access for ADHD tests.If you've been given a personal diagnosis of ADHD, it is possible to treat the disorder by using the combination of behavioural therapy and medication. Stimulant drugs such as amphetamine and methylphenidate are used to improve focus and productivity, while non-stimulants with a slower onset like atomoxetine are useful for improving your attention and impulse control. adhd assessment private uk choose treatment for behavioural issues and do not require medication. However, for those who require medication, a post-diagnostic plan of care can be put together at Priory. This includes a detailed medical report as well as a titration of the final dose, which could be shared with your GP.Post-diagnostic treatmentA diagnosis of ADHD can have significant financial and human costs. It is essential to provide a psychiatric evaluation and treatment plan for all adults with ADHD. This should include medication, psychological and practical support, as well as therapy for families if it is appropriate. This should include family and workplace education on how to better support and manage an adult with ADHD.The first step is an interview with an expert in mental health care who is certified to evaluate ADHD and related conditions. Patients are required to bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health concerns to the initial appointment. This appointment will review the patient's medical and psychiatric history, as well as their family history. It will also examine how the ADHD symptoms affect the individual's daily functioning and their relationships.During this examination, the doctor will make sure whether the symptoms match with the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must be present in two settings of the person's daily life (either at home or at work). It should affect their normal functioning and result in significant distress or impairment. This could take the form of having difficulty finding a job, issues with marriage or coping with finances, issues at school or in their overall quality of life.Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment. Psychologists understand the way that brains work however, they are not qualified to prescribe medication, and can only suggest counselling. Psychologists are fully trained to diagnose and treat ADHD and may prescribe medication if needed.If the Psychiatrist decides that the person with ADHD is in need of medication, they will prescribe the medication and send it to a local pharmacy. This is under the supervision of the Psychiatrist and must be completed within three months of the private assessment to ensure that the patient is able to fully adjusted to their final dose of medication. If the GP accepts to continue NHS prescribing following the private ADHD assessment The Psychiatrist will provide them with complete report and treatment recommendations, and will create a Shared Care Agreement with the GP.