Diagnosing ADHD in the UK
GPs in England, Scotland and Wales cannot diagnose ADHD but they can refer you to an NHS specialist to conduct 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.
Assessment
Being diagnosed with ADHD is the first step to managing it effectively. Without a diagnosis, people don't know what to do to manage their symptoms and improve their performance at work, school and in relationships. While everyone displays some impulsivity and hyperactivity at times, people with ADHD exhibit these behaviors regularly. They are unorganized and have difficulty organizing their time. They procrastinate a lot and struggle to meet deadlines, despite their best intentions. They may be physically fidgety, or unable to sit still and might be easily distracted, even when they are engaged in a pursuit they enjoy. They might also struggle with their memory, and forgetting appointments or other important occasions.
Adults are more difficult to identify than children. The diagnostic criteria in the DSM-V - the mental health manual that is used by doctors across the world - are geared towards diagnosing children. However, it is more difficult to determine ADHD symptoms in adulthood. The assessment process is based on clinical sessions with a specialist.
The clinician will ask the person about their behaviour throughout their life, taking into consideration the symptoms they experience and their impact on their lives. They will also interview relatives or close family members if they are appropriate and consented. This method is especially useful when assessing an adult for ADHD because it allows to differentiate the disorder from other medical conditions, such as emotional problems, sleep disorders or autism spectrum disorders, as well as mood swings.
In order for the assessment to be accurate, the person being assessed should be open and honest in their answers. They should be prepared to spend most of their time answering questions. Bring any documents or other information that may be relevant to your assessment like an medical history, allergies and other ailments. They should be aware that a clinician might require a variety of tests and questionnaires to arrive at an informed decision.
Medication
Adults and children with ADHD symptoms may benefit from medication. This is usually done after an evaluation by a specialist like a psychiatrist or paediatrician. After a diagnosis has been confirmed, the specialist will then discuss the most effective treatment options with you. This could involve treatment, medication or any combination of both.
A psychiatrist will look for clusters of symptoms as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to determine an ADHD diagnosis. They will also take into consideration the impact of the symptoms on your life. This is how they affect your relationships, work, your school and home activities. They also take into consideration the fact that the symptoms have been present since childhood.
Treatments for ADHD are often stimulants, like dexamphetamine and methylphenidate (Ritalin) and they work by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters within the brain. Depending on your symptoms your doctor might start you off at the lowest dosage, and then slowly increase it. They will also check for any side effects.
It is essential to inform your GP when you have a mental health history. This will enable them to determine if your ADHD symptoms are linked to these conditions.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from comorbid conditions 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 when they may cry, shout and run around in a wildly chaotic manner, all at once, as a child who is having an argument.
Certain people with ADHD may develop nosebleeds, stomachaches, and headaches. Therefore, it is important to check website for medical issues, like sleep apnea issues with vision and hearing thyroid problems, as well as lead poisoning during your assessment. It is also important to be aware that certain foods and beverages could trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. It's a good idea to stay clear of caffeine, sugary and processed foods, as well as artificial flavors and colours. Your psychiatrist will give you tips on how to manage your ADHD symptoms during an assessment.
Shared Management
Unmanaged ADHD symptoms can lead to people to experience difficulties at work or in relationships. These issues could affect their physical health and well-being. This is why it is essential that they receive the appropriate treatment and support by a healthcare professional who has the training and expertise in the management of ADHD.
The NHS offers a service to children and adolescents with ADHD. This includes assessment, treatment, and assistance. This service is provided by healthcare professionals who have received specialist training in ADHD management like Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists. The assessment of young and children with ADHD can include: taking a thorough psychosocial and developmental history, observation; use of standardised questionnaires and psychological tests. It may also include consultation with parents and relatives.
In the UK those seeking help with ADHD often encounter a network of gatekeepers who can facilitate or hinder access to diagnosis and assistance. The attitude and understanding of gatekeepers, as well as the availability of services, can affect the ease with which a child or young person with ADHD can get through the system.
The attendees of the meeting expressed concerns about the long waiting times for CAMHS services as well as the high rejection rates for children with ADHD. When people finally do get a visit they could be offered interventions that are not designed to their individual needs. The representatives of charities have reported anecdotal cases of teenagers suffering from severe comorbidities, like self-harming behavior and eating disorders, being denied access to treatment because they were considered signs of ADHD rather than a sign of mental distress that needed immediate intervention.
The GP can refer patients to an ADHD assessment However, their ability to offer treatment is not as strong. Their role is to analyze and diagnose the condition and refer for specialist assessment where appropriate. Depending on their skills and expertise in the field, the GP might recommend the use of behavioural therapy or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to manage ADHD symptoms. They may also suggest that the person seeks private help with an experienced psychologist who specializes in this field of mental health.
Support
In the UK, GPs can assess whether ADHD is likely and refer you to a specialist for further assessment. This includes a complete medical history and a check for other health issues, such as anxiety or depression. It's also important to consider whether other causes, like food allergies, are making the symptoms worse.
After a diagnosis has been made, medication can help alleviate the symptoms. This can be done through taking medication or talks therapy sessions. In some instances, dietary changes can also help with the symptoms. Those who suffer from ADHD are often unable to get the help they require. It is essential to find a company that you trust and will take the time to get to know your needs. Support and assistance from family and friends can be very beneficial, as is as joining a peer group for people suffering from ADHD. They'll be able to talk about their experiences and brainstorm strategies in conjunction.
Adults suffering from ADHD might experience difficulties with receiving the correct diagnosis or treatment because certain healthcare professionals have preconceived ideas about what a person with ADHD 'looks like'. This could make it more difficult for those who belong to minorities, like people of color or assigned female at birth, to receive an assessment.
Adults can take advantage of private ADHD assessments to avoid delays and obstructions in NHS services, and also to get a diagnosis that they may use when seeking specialist assistance. Health professionals and GPs may be concerned about the validity and accept treatment based on privately written diagnoses.
Training for primary care physicians to improve their knowledge of ADHD and how it affects adults could be a method of reducing these problems. It is also beneficial to have clear pathways for people who want to receive help and treatment.
People who suffer from ADHD can enjoy a high quality of life if their symptoms are treated. 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 other family members.