Diagnosing ADHD in the UK
In England, Scotland and Wales the GPs in England, Scotland and Wales are not able to diagnose ADHD. However, they are able to refer you to a specialist within the NHS for an assessment. This is referred to as a "right to choose" referral.
A thorough ADHD assessment can take between 45 and 90 minutes. The psychiatrist may request you to complete questionnaires and provide supporting evidence such as old school reports.
The Assessment
Finding out if you have ADHD is the first step towards managing it effectively. People aren't sure how to manage their symptoms or improve their functioning in school, work and in relationships without being diagnosed. While everyone displays some hyperactivity and impulsiveness at times, people with ADHD exhibit these behaviors consistently. They are usually unorganized and find it difficult to plan and are not able to follow instructions. They often delay and have a difficult time trying to meet deadlines, despite their best intentions. They may be physically fidgety, inability to sit still, and find it easy to become distracted even when they are engaged in a pleasurable activity. They may also struggle with their memory, avoiding appointments or other important events.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults is more difficult than when it comes to children. The diagnostic criteria used in the DSM-V - the mental health manual used by doctors across the world - are designed towards diagnosing children, but it is much more difficult to identify ADHD symptoms in adulthood. Instead, the process of assessing is based on a series of clinical interviews with an expert.
The clinician will ask about the person's behavior throughout their life, taking into account their symptoms and how they have affected their lives. They will also talk to relatives or close friends if appropriate and with consent. This process is particularly useful when evaluating an adult for ADHD as it can help to differentiate the condition from other medical issues like emotional disorders, sleep disorders, autism spectrum disorder and mood swings.
For the assessment to be accurate the person being evaluated should be open and honest in their answers. They must be prepared to respond to a multitude of questions and expect that the interview will last the majority of the time. Bring any documents or other information that may be relevant to your assessment like a medical history, allergies and other ailments. They must also be aware that the doctor may need to conduct a wide range of tests and questionnaires in order to make an informed choice regarding the symptoms.
Medication
For children and adults who are struggling with ADHD symptoms, medication may help ease their struggles. This is usually done following a specialist assessment, such as a psychiatrist, or an obstetrician. After a diagnosis has been established, the doctor will then discuss the most effective treatment options with you. This could involve medication, therapy or any combination of both.
A psychiatrist will search for clusters of symptoms as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to determine an ADHD diagnosis. They will also consider the effects of the symptoms your life. This includes how they impact on your relationships, work and school and family activities. They will also consider the possibility that symptoms were present since childhood.
ADHD medication are typically stimulants like dexamphetamine or methylphenidate (Ritalin). They are effective by increasing neurotransmitters in the brain. Depending on your symptoms your doctor might begin you at the lowest dosage, and then slowly increase it. They will also watch closely for any adverse effects.
If you have a history of other mental health issues, it's essential to inform your GP. This will allow them to check whether your ADHD symptoms are linked to these illnesses.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from comorbid disorders, such as depression or an anxiety disorder. They are also more likely to experience'meltdowns' which occur when they are overwhelmed with emotions. This is the time when they cry and scream, or be wildly agitated all at once, much like a child having a tantrum.
Certain people with ADHD may experience nosebleeds, stomachaches and headaches. Therefore, it is important to check for medical conditions like sleep apnea, problems with vision and hearing, thyroid problems and lead poisoning during your assessment. It is also important to be aware that certain drinks and foods could trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Avoiding caffeine and processed, sugary foods as well as artificial colours and flavours, as well as processed sugars is an excellent idea. Your psychiatrist will give you tips on how to manage your ADHD symptoms during an assessment.
Shared Management
Many people who suffer from ADHD have issues with work and relationships as a result of unmanaged symptoms. These problems can have a direct impact on their physical wellbeing and health. Therefore, it is essential that they receive the right treatment and support of a healthcare professional who has the experience and training required to manage ADHD.
The NHS provides a variety of services to children and young people with ADHD that includes assessment, medication and support. This service is provided by healthcare professionals who have completed specific training in ADHD management like Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists. Assessment of adolescents and children with ADHD could include taking a thorough development and psychosocial history, observation, use of standardised questions, and psychological tests. It could also include consultation with relatives and carers.
In the UK those seeking help with ADHD often encounter a network of gatekeepers who may facilitate or hinder access to diagnosis and assistance. The knowledge and attitude of gatekeepers and the availability services will influence the ease with which a child or teen with ADHD can navigate the system.
Attendees of the meeting expressed concern over the long waiting times for CAMHS services and the low rejection rates of adolescents suffering from ADHD. It is also possible that when patients do finally get seen they will be offered treatments that aren't specifically tailored to their needs. Representatives from charities have reported anecdotal instances of young people with severe co-morbidities (such as self-harming behaviors and eating disorders) being denied access to treatment for these disorders due to the fact that they were symptomatic of ADHD instead of being a sign of mental distress and the need for immediate intervention.
The ability of the GP to treat ADHD is limited. They are accountable for diagnosing the condition, and refer patients to specialists if needed. Depending on the GP's skills and knowledge, he/ they may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or behavioural therapy to manage ADHD symptoms. They may also suggest that the person seek help by a psychologist who is specialized in this type of mental illness.
Support
In the UK, GPs can assess whether ADHD is likely and refer to specialists for further evaluation. This will include a full medical history and checking for other health issues, such as depression or anxiety. It is also important to think about whether other causes, such as food allergies, could be making the symptoms worse.
After a diagnosis is established, medications may be prescribed to help relieve symptoms. This could involve taking tablets or even talking therapy. In certain instances, diet changes can also help manage symptoms. Patients with ADHD find it hard to receive the help they require. It's important to find a service that you trust and who takes the time to get to know your needs. Joining a peer support group for those suffering from ADHD, or getting assistance as well as support from family and friends is a good idea. They'll be able to talk about their experiences and come up with strategies together.
Adults with ADHD may have difficulty more info obtaining the correct diagnosis or treatment because certain healthcare professionals are predisposed to what ADHD "looks" like. This can make it harder for those who belong to minorities, like people of color or born female, to get a diagnosis.
Adults may seek private ADHD assessments to prevent delays and obstructions to NHS services, and also to get a diagnosis they can apply for specialist support. However, GPs and other healthcare professionals have reasonable concerns about the legitimacy of privately formulated diagnoses and may refuse treatment in accordance with them.
Training for primary care practitioners to improve their understanding of ADHD and how it affects adults can be a method of reducing these issues. It is also important to establish clear pathways for those who wish to receive help and treatment.
If their symptoms are managed those who suffer from ADHD are able to enjoy a good quality of life. They are more productive and are more likely than peers without ADHD to succeed at school and at work. It's important that you share your ADHD management with your parents, teachers, and friends.