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 on the NHS to conduct an assessment. This is known as a "right to choose" referral.
A thorough ADHD evaluation can take between 45 to 90 minutes. The psychiatrist may request you to fill out questionnaires or provide proof like old school documents.
The Assessment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is the first step in managing it effectively. Without a diagnosis, people don't know how to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at school, work and in relationships. While everyone displays some impulsivity and hyperactivity from time to time those with ADHD demonstrate these behaviours consistently. They are usually unorganized, find it hard to plan and are not able to follow directions. They tend to procrastinate and struggle to meet deadlines, despite their best efforts. They might be physically fidgety or unable to stay still. They could find it easy to become distracted, even while engaged in a pursuit they enjoy. They may also have trouble with their memory, and forgetting appointments or other important occasions.
Adults are more difficult to recognize than children. The DSM-V, the mental health manual that doctors worldwide use is designed to help diagnose children. It is more difficult to determine ADHD symptoms in adults. Instead, the process of assessing relies on a series of interviews with a specialist.
The clinician will ask about the person's behaviour over their life time and will consider their symptoms and how they have affected their lives. They will also interview relatives or close friends if appropriate and with consent. This is particularly useful when testing adults for ADHD. It can help distinguish the condition from other medical conditions, like emotional issues as well as sleep disorders and autism spectrum disorder.
To ensure that the assessment to be reliable, the person being evaluated must be honest and forthcoming in their answers. They should anticipate spending the majority of their time responding to questions. They should bring any information or paperwork that might be relevant to the examination such as a medical history or the history of medical issues, such as allergies and other ailments, along with them. They must be aware that a clinician may require various tests and questionnaires to make an informed decision.
Medication
For adults and children who are struggling with ADHD symptoms, medications can aid in easing their problems. This is typically arranged after an assessment has been made by a specialist such as paediatricians or psychiatrists. The specialist can discuss with you the best treatment options after the diagnosis has been made. This could involve therapy, medication or a 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 examine the impact that the symptoms have on your life. This includes the impact of the symptoms on your relationships, school, work and home activities. They also take into consideration the fact that the symptoms have been present since childhood.
Medications for ADHD are often stimulants like dexamphetamine or methylphenidate (Ritalin) and they are effective by increasing the quantity of neurotransmitters that are present in the brain. Your doctor may begin with the lowest dose, and gradually increase it based on your symptoms. They will also examine you for any adverse effects.
If you've had a history of other mental health issues, it's important to tell your GP. This will enable them to determine whether your ADHD symptoms could be related to any of these conditions.
It's not uncommon for those with ADHD to suffer from comorbidities such as anxiety or depression. They are also more likely to experience'meltdowns' which occur when they are overwhelmed with emotions. This is when they may cry and scream, or be wildly agitated all at once, as a child who is having an argument.
Some people with ADHD may develop nosebleeds, stomachaches, and headaches. It is crucial to check during your assessment for medical conditions like sleep apnea and thyroid problems. It's also important to note that some foods and drinks can trigger symptoms of ADHD. Avoiding caffeine or sugary processed foods as well as artificial colours and flavours, and sugary, processed foods is a good idea. During a consultation, your psychiatrist will be able to advise on the best method for managing your ADHD symptoms.
Shared Management
Many people who suffer from ADHD have issues with work and relationships as a result of inability to manage their symptoms. These issues can have a direct impact on their physical and mental health. It is therefore essential that they receive the right treatment and support of medical professionals who have the training and expertise to manage ADHD.
The NHS provides a service for children and adolescents suffering from ADHD. This includes assessment, medication, and assistance. This service is delivered by healthcare professionals who have specialist training in the treatment of ADHD like Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists. The evaluation of young and children with ADHD could include taking a detailed psychosocial and developmental history, observation; the use of standardised questionnaires and psychological tests. It could also involve consultation with family members and carers.
In the UK those seeking help for ADHD are often greeted by a system that can either facilitate or hinder diagnosis and assistance. The attitude and understanding of these gatekeepers, as well the availability of services, will affect the ease with which a child or young person with ADHD can navigate the system.
One of the key concerns raised by meeting attendees was that some CAMHS services have lengthy waiting times and rejection rates for young and adolescents people with ADHD. It is also possible that when people are finally seen, they will be offered treatments that are not customized to their particular requirements. Representatives of charities reported anecdotal cases of teenagers suffering from severe comorbidities, such as self-harming and eating disorders, not having access to treatment because they were considered symptoms of ADHD instead of signs of mental distress that needed immediate intervention.
Doctors can refer patients for an ADHD assessment, but their ability to offer treatment is limited. They are accountable for diagnosing the condition, and refer patients to specialists if needed. Depending on their skills and experience in the field, the GP might suggest treatment with behavioural therapy or cognitive therapy (CBT) to manage ADHD symptoms. They may also suggest that the patient seek out private assistance from 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 an expert for further evaluation. This includes a complete medical history as well as a look at other health issues such as anxiety or depression. It is important to consider other causes such as food allergies that may be making symptoms worse.
Once a diagnosis has been made, medication can help alleviate the symptoms. This could involve taking tablets or talking therapy. In some instances, dietary modifications can also help in managing symptoms. Patients with ADHD are often unable to receive the help they require. It's crucial to find a professional you trust and will take the time to fully understand your requirements. Joining a peer support group for people with ADHD, or getting assistance and support from family members and friends is a great idea. They can discuss their experiences and create strategies together.
Adults who suffer from ADHD might have difficulties getting the correct diagnosis or treatment as some healthcare professionals have preconceived ideas about what a person with ADHD "looks like". This can make it harder for those who belong to minority groups, like people of color or who were born female to check here get a diagnosis.
Many adults take private ADHD assessments in order to avoid delays and obstructions in NHS services and to obtain a diagnosis that they could use to apply for special assistance. GPs and other health professionals may be concerned about legitimacy of treatment based on privately formulated diagnoses.
To reduce these problems it is possible to offer training for primary care physicians in order to improve their understanding about ADHD and its effects on adults. It is also helpful to have clear ways for those who wish to access support and treatment.
If their symptoms are managed those with ADHD can enjoy a high quality of life. They are more productive and are more likely than their peers without ADHD to do well in school and at work. It is essential to share your ADHD management with your family, teachers and your friends.