Diagnosing ADHD in the UK
GPs in England, Scotland and Wales can't diagnose ADHD however they can refer you to an NHS specialist for an assessment. This is known as an "right to choose" referral.
An ADHD assessment is usually thorough and can take 45-90 minutes. The psychiatrist might ask you to complete questionnaires and provide supporting evidence, such as old school reports.
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 performance in the workplace, school and in relationships without being diagnosed. People suffering from ADHD exhibit impulsiveness and hyperactivity regularly. Although everyone displays these behaviors at times, they are not always consistent. They are unorganized and have trouble making plans. They tend to procrastinate and are unable to meet deadlines despite their best efforts. They may be physically fidgety, or unable to stay still. They could find it easy to get distracted, even when they are engaged in an activity they enjoy. They may also have trouble with their memory and may forget important dates or events.
Adults are more difficult to recognize than children. The diagnostic criteria used in the DSM-V - the mental health manual used by doctors around the world - are targeted toward diagnosing children, and it is more difficult to determine ADHD symptoms in the adulthood. genetic factors of assessment is based on a series of clinical interviews with an expert.
The clinician will ask the person about their behaviour throughout their life, focusing on the symptoms they experience and their impact on their lives. If it is appropriate and they have consented to, they will also interview family members or close relatives of the patient. This method is especially useful when evaluating an adult for ADHD, as it helps to distinguish the diagnosis from other medical issues, such as emotional problems, sleep disorders as well as autism spectrum disorder and mood swings.
In order for the assessment to be accurate the person being evaluated must be honest and open in their answers. They should expect to spend the majority of their time answering questions. They should bring any documents or paperwork that might be relevant to the evaluation, including the history of medical issues such as allergies or other ailments, along with them. They must be aware that a clinician may require various tests and questionnaires in order to make an informed decision.
Medication
For children and adults who struggle with ADHD symptoms, medication may help ease their struggles. This is usually done after a specialist assessment, such as a psychiatrist or a paediatrician. If a diagnosis is made, the specialist can then discuss the most effective treatment options with you. This could involve treatment, medication or a combination of both.
A psychiatrist will examine the symptoms in clusters described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to determine if you suffer from ADHD. They also look at the effects of the symptoms on your life. This is how they affect your relationships, work and your school and home activities. They will also take into consideration the fact that the symptoms were present in childhood.
Medications for ADHD are often stimulants like methylphenidate or dexamphetamine (Ritalin) and they help by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain. Your doctor may begin with the lowest dose, and gradually increase it in line with your symptoms. They will also closely examine you for any adverse effects.
If you've had an history of mental health issues, it's crucial to tell your GP. This will enable them to determine if your ADHD symptoms are related to these illnesses.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from comorbid conditions such as anxiety disorders or depression. They are also more likely to experience'meltdowns' which occur when they are overwhelmed with emotions. They might yell, cry, and move around wildly all at the same time. It's similar to a child throwing a tantrum.
Some people with ADHD can develop nosebleeds, stomachaches and headaches. Therefore, it is important to check for medical problems, like sleep apnea issues with vision and hearing thyroid problems, as well as lead poisoning during your assessment. Be aware that certain beverages and foods can trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Avoiding caffeine or sugary processed foods as well as artificial colours and flavors, as well as processed sugars is an ideal idea. Your psychiatrist will give you suggestions on how to deal with your ADHD symptoms during an assessment.
Shared Management
Many people suffering from ADHD are unable to perform their jobs and relationships as a result of inability to manage their symptoms. These issues could have a direct impact on their physical health and well-being. Therefore, it is crucial that they receive appropriate treatment and guidance by a healthcare professional who has the knowledge and experience in the treatment of ADHD.
The NHS provides a variety of services to children and young people with ADHD which includes assessment, medication and support. The service is provided by healthcare professionals who have completed specialist training in ADHD management including Clinical Psychologists and psychiatrists. Assessment of adolescents and children with ADHD may involve taking a detailed development and psychosocial history, observation, use of standardised questions, and psychological tests. It may also involve consultation with family members and carers.
In the UK those seeking help with ADHD often encounter a network of gatekeepers that can help or hinder access to diagnosis and support. The knowledge and attitude of gatekeepers, as well the availability of services, can affect how easily a child young person suffering from ADHD is able to access the system.
One of the major issues raised by attendees was the fact that certain CAMHS services have lengthy waiting times and high rejection rates for adolescents and young people suffering from ADHD. When people finally get seen they could be offered interventions that are not designed to meet their requirements. The representatives of charities have told of anecdotal stories of young people with severe comorbidities, such as self-harming and eating disorders, being denied access to treatment because they were deemed symptoms of ADHD rather than a sign of mental distress that needed immediate intervention.
The ability of the GP to treat ADHD is not as effective. They are the ones responsible to diagnose the condition and referring patients to specialists if necessary. Depending on the GP's skills and knowledge, he/ might suggest cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or behavioral therapy to treat ADHD symptoms. They may also suggest that the person seeks private counseling with an expert psychologist in this area of mental health.
Support
In the UK, GPs are able to determine whether ADHD is likely. They can then refer patients to a specialist who will conduct a more thorough assessment. This includes a thorough medical history, as well as checking for other health problems such as depression or anxiety. It's also important to consider whether other causes, such as food allergies, may be making symptoms worse.
When a diagnosis is established, medications may be prescribed to help relieve symptoms. This could include taking tablets or undergoing therapy. In some instances, dietary modifications can also help manage the symptoms. People who live with ADHD are often unable to get the right support. It is crucial to find a service you can trust and that will take the time necessary to understand your requirements. Getting help and support from family and friends is extremely beneficial, as well as joining a peer group for people with ADHD. They can discuss their experiences and create strategies together.
Adults suffering from ADHD may have difficulty getting the right diagnosis or treatment, as certain healthcare professionals are predisposed to what ADHD "looks" like. This could make it more difficult for those from minority groups, like people of color or who were born female to receive an assessment.
Many adults take private ADHD assessments to circumvent delays and blockages in NHS services and to receive an assessment that they can use to seek professional assistance. Health professionals and GPs may be concerned about the validity and accept treatment based on privately-formulated diagnoses.
Offering training to primary care practitioners to improve their understanding of ADHD and how it affects adults can help reduce these problems. It is also important to provide clear pathways for those who would like to receive help and treatment.
People with ADHD are able to enjoy a great quality of life if their symptoms are treated. They can achieve a lot and are more likely to succeed in school and work than their peers who do not have ADHD. It's important to talk about how you're managing your ADHD with your family, friends and teachers.