ADHD Diagnosis - Getting the Right One From the NHSThe NHS requires that patients undergo a thorough evaluation in order to get an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics could be handing out inaccurate diagnoses and prescriptions.A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms, their severity, duration and impact. The doctor will interview the individual and examine the medical, psychiatric, family and personal background.DiagnosisFor adults who feel they have symptoms that may be connected to ADHD, getting a diagnosis is a key step to getting treatment and taking control of their lives. If they suspect they may have ADHD, or if they have a family member or a friend who has suggested it, obtaining an assessment can aid in managing their symptoms.The first thing that patients should discuss their concerns with the GP. Discuss your symptoms with them and how they affect your daily life. The GP will then recommend them to an expert mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has had special training in this area. This is essential because it allows the psychiatrist to be confident that they're applying the correct criteria to determine ADHD.The psychiatrist will interview the patient and often request their spouse, or close family members and friends who are familiar with them. They must also take into account the patient's medical history as well as mental health history, starting from childhood. They will also consider the severity of the symptoms and how they have impacted the patient's life. There isn't a brain scan or blood test that can be used to confirm an ADHD diagnosis Therefore, the psychiatrist will need to assess all the available information.If the psychiatrist is of the opinion that the patient does not meet all the criteria for an ADHD diagnoses, they will be able to explain why. It could be that the patient hasn't given enough detail about their issues, or it might be that a different condition is responsible for their behaviour better than ADHD. It could also be the case that the psychiatrist believes that the patient's issues are due to something else and not due to the condition.Some people find it harder to receive a correct diagnosis due to the prejudices espoused by certain health experts. This is particularly the case if they are an individual of color or assigned a female birth or not a native English speaking. However, there is a growing awareness of this issue and the NHS is working to address it.AssessmentIf you suspect you might have ADHD or other disorders, you should have an assessment by a healthcare professional who is familiar with such evaluations. You could ask your doctor for a referral or consult with local medical schools or hospitals to find out the professionals who are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You may also ask the local ADHD support group for an appointment.A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the amount severity, duration and severity of symptoms that impact specific areas of your life. These include school, relationships and work. You may experience problems with regards to not performing in your education or at work or in difficulty in maintaining and forming relationships, or being forgetful or disorganised. It is crucial to talk about these problems and not be afraid to confront criticism.From GPs and consultant psychiatrists, there are many healthcare professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment. To make a formal diagnosis of ADHD it should be carried out either by a Psychiatrist who is qualified or a qualified Prescriber Special Nurse. This is because only a Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.In an ADHD evaluation, you will be questioned. It is crucial to bring a loved one with you to provide support or evidence. It is also beneficial to note down your symptoms and how they've affected your life. The doctor will ask you questions to collect information about your history and your current functioning. They will also examine you to see whether there are any medical conditions that could be responsible for your ADHD symptoms.The NHS can also provide an adult adhd diagnosis that is private however this could take a very long time because of the backed up NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer paying out of pocket for private treatment and assessment through the "Right to Choose" pathway is easier. 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.MedicationIf you have been struggling with symptoms of ADHD as an adult, it is a good idea to have a full and thorough evaluation done. This will help you get the right medication and the help you require to manage your symptoms. There are numerous private providers of this service but, should you decide to go down this route it is crucial to look into the reputation of your chosen psychiatrist and their knowledge and training with neurodevelopmental disorders.In recent months, a variety 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 make sense". However, despite the increasing awareness, NHS waiting lists remain overflowing with people wanting to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment.In the end doctors are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services in the event of a private diagnosis of ADHD. In part, this is due to the fact that they don't have the time, and in certain instances, they might not be able to find a specialist who is knowledgeable in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, this is exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff could be assigned other requirements, like mental health assessments.There are those who believe that private providers of 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 dire need to improve access to specialist ADHD assessments.If you've been diagnosed with ADHD, you can treat it by combining treatment for behavioural disorders and medications. Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and amphetamine can be utilized to improve attention and impulse control, while slower acting non-stimulants like atomoxetine are helpful in enhancing concentration and productivity.Some patients opt for the behavioural approach, and do not need medication. Priory can create a post-diagnostic treatment package for patients who require medication. This will include a comprehensive medical report, as well as a titration for the final dose, which could be shared with your GP.Post-diagnostic treatmentA diagnosis of ADHD can result in significant human and financial costs. This is why it's vital that a psychiatric assessment and treatment program be made available to all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication and practical and psychological support as well as family therapy if appropriate. This should include workplace and family information on how to best support and manage an adult with ADHD.The first step is an interview with a mental healthcare professional who is qualified to evaluate ADHD or other disorders. Patients must be prepared to bring a written record of their symptoms and any other mental health concerns prior to their first appointment. private adhd assessment newcastle will cover the patient's medical, mental health and family history. It will also examine the impact of ADHD on the individual's daily life and relationships.During this process the doctor will make sure whether the symptoms are in line with the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must be present in two places of the individual's life (either home or work). It must affect their normal functioning and result in significant distress or impairment. This could take the form of a problem in securing a job, dealing with marriage or finances or school issues, or in their overall quality of life.Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment. Psychologists know the way that brains work, but are not qualified to prescribe medications, therefore they can only recommend counselling. Psychologists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication if needed.If the Psychiatrist determines that the patient has ADHD requires medication, he or she will prescribe a prescription to a local pharmacist. This is done under the supervision of the doctor 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 agrees that they will continue prescribing ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD evaluation the Psychiatrist can provide a comprehensive report with treatment recommendations. They will also prepare an agreement known as a Shared Care Agreement.