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 can refer you to a specialist in the NHS for an assessment. This is known as an "right to choose" referral.
An ADHD assessment is usually fairly thorough and can take 45-90 minutes. The psychiatrist may request you to complete questionnaires and provide supporting evidence such as old school reports.
Assessment
Finding out if you have ADHD is the first step in managing it effectively. Without a diagnosis, people do not know how to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at work, school, and in relationships. People with ADHD show hyperactivity and impulsiveness regularly. However, everyone experiences these behaviors from time to time. They tend to be disorganized and have difficulty to plan and are not able to follow instructions. They often delay and struggle to meet deadlines despite their best intentions. They might be physically fidgety, unable to sit still, and find it easy to get distracted even when they are enjoying a fun activity. They may also have trouble with their memory, and forgetting appointments or other important occasions.
Adults are more difficult to diagnose than children. The diagnostic criteria used in the DSM-V - the mental health manual that is used by doctors around the world - are targeted towards diagnosing children, but it is more difficult to determine ADHD symptoms in adults. The assessment process is based on clinical sessions with the specialist.
The doctor will inquire about the person's behavior throughout their life time, taking into account their symptoms and how they have impacted their lives. They will also interview the person's family members or close friends if appropriate and with consent. This method is particularly helpful when assessing adults for ADHD. It helps distinguish the diagnosis from other medical conditions, like emotional issues as well as sleep disorders and autism spectrum disorder.
In order for the assessment to be accurate, the person being assessed needs to be honest and open in their answers. They must be prepared to respond to a multitude of questions and expect that the interview will last most of the time. They should bring any documents or documents that could be relevant to the examination, including a history of medical problems, such as allergies and other ailments, along with them. They should be aware that a clinician may require various tests and questionnaires to arrive at an informed decision.
Medication
For adults and children who are struggling with their ADHD symptoms, medication may help ease their struggles. This usually occurs after an assessment has been conducted by a specialist such as a psychiatrist or paediatrician. Once a diagnosis is made, the specialist can then discuss the most effective treatment options with you. This could include therapy, medication, or a combination.
A psychiatrist will examine clusters of symptoms described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to determine if you suffer from ADHD. They will also consider the impact the symptoms have on your life. This includes how they impact your relationships, work and school and family activities. They will also take into consideration the fact that symptoms have been present in childhood.
Medications for ADHD typically contain stimulants, like dexamphetamine and methylphenidate (Ritalin) and they help by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters within the brain. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may begin you at the lowest dosage, and then slowly increase it. They will also closely examine you for any adverse effects.
If you have any other mental health issues, it's crucial to tell your GP. This will allow them to check whether your ADHD symptoms are connected to these illnesses.
It isn't uncommon for people with ADHD to suffer from comorbidities like anxiety or depression. They are also more likely to experience'meltdowns' which occur when they are overwhelmed with emotions. They might cry, shout and dance around all at the same time. It's similar to a child throwing an angry tantrum.
Some people with ADHD are at risk of developing stomachaches, headaches and nosebleeds. Therefore, it is important to check for medical issues, like sleep apnea, issues with vision and hearing, thyroid problems and lead poisoning in your examination. It's also worth noting that certain foods and drinks can click here trigger ADHD-like symptoms. It is recommended to stay away from caffeine, processed and sugary foods as well as artificial colours and flavourings. During an assessment, your psychiatrist will be able advise you on the best strategy for managing your ADHD symptoms.
Shared Management
Many people with ADHD experience difficulties with work and relationships due to unmanaged symptoms. These issues could directly impact their physical health and wellbeing. For this reason, it is essential that they receive the appropriate treatment and guidance from a medical professional who has the experience and training in the treatment of ADHD.
The NHS provides a variety of services to children and adolescents with ADHD which includes assessment, medication and support. This service is delivered by healthcare professionals who have specialist training in the treatment of ADHD, such as Psychiatrists and Clinical Psychologists. Assessment of adolescents and children with ADHD could include taking a thorough psychosocial and developmental history, observation, use of standardised questions, and psychological tests. It may also involve consultation with parents and family members.
In the UK those seeking help for ADHD are often greeted by a network that can help or hinder diagnosis and assistance. The knowledge and attitude of these gatekeepers, as well the accessibility of services, will affect how easily a child or young person with ADHD can get through the system.
One of the major concerns that attendees raised was the fact that certain CAMHS services have long waiting times and low rejection rates for adolescents and young people with ADHD. When people finally get seen, they may be offered treatments that are not designed to meet their needs. Representatives from charities have reported anecdotal instances of young people with severe comorbidities (such self-harming behavior and eating disorders) being refused access to treatment for these conditions because they were symptomatic of ADHD instead of being a sign of mental distress and the need for immediate intervention.
Doctors can refer patients for an ADHD assessment however their ability to offer treatment is limited. Their role is to assess and diagnose the condition and refer to a specialist assessment where appropriate. Depending on the GP's skills and experience, he or she may suggest cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or behavioral therapy to manage ADHD symptoms. They may also suggest that the patient seek private counseling with an experienced psychologist who specializes in this field of mental health.
Support
In the UK, GPs are able to assess whether ADHD is likely. They can then refer patients to a specialist who will conduct an extensive assessment. This includes a thorough medical history, as well as looking for other health issues like depression or anxiety. It is important to consider other causes, such as food allergies that could make symptoms worse.
When a diagnosis is confirmed, a medication can be prescribed to help relieve symptoms. This could involve taking tablets or undergoing therapy. In some instances, dietary adjustments can help to manage the symptoms. Patients with ADHD have a difficult time get the support they need. It is crucial to choose a service you trust and that takes the time to understand your needs. Joining an online support group for those suffering from ADHD or obtaining assistance as well as support from family and friends is a good idea. They'll be able to talk about their experiences and brainstorm strategies in conjunction.
Adults suffering from ADHD may have difficulty obtaining the correct diagnosis or treatment, as certain healthcare professionals are predisposed to what ADHD 'looks' like. This can make it harder for people from minorities, like people of color or born female, to get a diagnosis.
Many adults take private ADHD assessments to circumvent delays and blockages in NHS services and to receive an accurate diagnosis that they can use to seek professional assistance. GPs and other health professionals might be concerned about the legitimacy of treatment based on privately written diagnoses.
To lessen the impact of these issues, it is possible to provide education to primary care professionals to enhance their knowledge of ADHD and its consequences on adults. It is also helpful to provide clear paths for those who wish to receive help and treatment.
When their symptoms are controlled, people who suffer from ADHD are able to enjoy a good quality of life. They can achieve great things and are more likely to be successful at work and school than their peers who don't have ADHD. It's important that you share your ADHD management with your parents, teachers, and friends.