Diagnosing ADHD in the UK
GPs in England, Scotland and Wales are unable to diagnose ADHD however they can refer you to an NHS specialist to conduct an assessment. This is called a 'right to choose' referral.
A thorough ADHD evaluation can take between 45 to 90 minutes. The psychiatrist might ask you to fill out questionnaires or provide evidence like old school records.
The Assessment
The first step in managing ADHD effectively is to get an accurate diagnosis. People aren't sure how to manage their symptoms or improve their performance in school, work and in relationships without the aid of a diagnosis. While everyone exhibits some hyperactivity and impulsiveness from time to time, people with ADHD demonstrate these behaviours consistently. They are often disorganised and find it difficult to plan their schedules and are unable to follow directions. They tend to delay their work and have a difficult time trying to meet deadlines, despite their best intentions. They might 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 like. They might also have issues with their memory, and might forget important events or appointments.
Adults are more difficult to recognize than children. The diagnostic criteria of the DSM-V - the mental health manual that is used by doctors across the world - are targeted towards diagnosing children. However, it is harder to establish ADHD symptoms in the adulthood. The assessment process is based on a series of clinical sessions with a specialist.
The doctor will inquire about the person's behaviour over their lifetime and will consider their symptoms and the way they have impacted their lives. If appropriate and consented to, they will also interview relatives or close friends of the individual. This process is particularly useful when evaluating an adult for ADHD because it allows to distinguish the disorder from other medical conditions like emotional disorders or sleep disorders or autism spectrum disorders, as well as mood changes.
To ensure that the assessment is 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 anticipate that the interview will take the majority of the time. Bring any paperwork or information that may be relevant to your evaluation, such as an medical history, allergies or other medical conditions. They must also be aware that the physician may have to employ a variety of tests and questionnaires in order to make an informed decision about the symptoms.
Medication
For adults and children who are struggling with ADHD symptoms, medication can aid in easing their problems. This usually happens after an assessment has been conducted by a specialist, such as a psychiatrist or paediatrician. The specialist can discuss with you the best treatment options once an assessment has been completed. This could involve medication, therapy or an amalgamation of both.
A psychiatrist will look for clusters of symptoms, as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to arrive at an ADHD diagnosis. They also look at the effects of the symptoms on your life. Included in this is the effect of the symptoms on your relationships, school, work and other activities at home. They also take into consideration the fact that the symptoms have been present since childhood.
Treatments for ADHD are usually stimulants, such as methylphenidate or dexamphetamine (Ritalin) and they work by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain. Depending on your symptoms your doctor might start you off on the lowest dosage and then slowly increase it. They will also monitor you for side effects.
It is essential to inform your GP whether you have a mental health history. This will enable them to check whether your ADHD symptoms are related to any of these illnesses.
People suffering from ADHD are more likely to be suffering from comorbid disorders, such as anxiety disorders or depression. They are also more likely to experience'meltdowns' which occur when they are overwhelmed with emotions. They might cry, shout and scream all at once. It's similar to a child throwing a tantrum.
Some people with ADHD can develop headaches, stomachaches and nosebleeds. It is important to screen during your assessment for medical conditions like thyroid and sleep apnea. It's also worth noting that certain drinks and foods can trigger symptoms of ADHD. Avoiding caffeine or sugary processed foods artificial colours and flavors, as well as processed, sugary foods is a good idea. Your psychiatrist can give you suggestions on how to deal with your ADHD symptoms during an assessment.
Shared Management
Many people suffering 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. It is therefore essential that they receive the appropriate treatment and assistance from medical professionals who have the knowledge and training to manage ADHD.
The NHS offers a range of services for children and adolescents with ADHD that includes assessment, medication, and support. This service is offered by healthcare professionals who have completed specialist training in ADHD management including Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists. The assessment of children and young people suffering from ADHD could include taking a thorough developmental and psychosocial history; observation; use of standardised questionnaires and psychological tests. It could also involve consultation with parents and family members.
In the UK people seeking help for ADHD are usually greeted by a network which can aid or hinder diagnosis and support. The attitudes and knowledge of these gatekeepers as well as the availability of services will impact the ease with the child or teenager with ADHD can navigate the system.
One of the main concerns raised by meeting attendees was that certain CAMHS services have long waiting times and low rejection rates for here adolescents and young people suffering from ADHD. When people finally get seen, they may be offered interventions that are not tailored to meet their specific needs. Representatives of charities reported anecdotal cases of teenagers with serious comorbidities like self-harming behavior and eating disorders, being denied access to treatment due to the fact that they were thought of as symptoms of ADHD instead of signs of mental distress that required immediate intervention.
GPs can refer for an ADHD assessment However, their ability to offer treatment is limited. Their job is to evaluate and diagnose the condition and refer patients to specialists for assessment when needed. Depending on their skills and expertise in the field, the GP may 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 expert psychologist 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 will include a complete medical history as well as the examination for any other health issues such as depression or anxiety. It's also important to consider whether other causes, like food allergies, are making the symptoms worse.
After a diagnosis has been established, medications can be used to alleviate the symptoms. This could include taking tablets or talking therapy. In certain instances, diet adjustments can help to manage the symptoms. People who live with ADHD are often unable to get the right support. It is crucial to find a service that you trust and who takes the time to get to know your needs. Getting help and support from family and friends can be extremely beneficial, as well as joining a peer group for people with ADHD. They can talk about their experiences and come up with strategies together.
Adults suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time getting the correct diagnosis or treatment, as certain healthcare professionals are predisposed to what ADHD "looks like. This can make it difficult for people who belong to minorities to receive a proper diagnosis, particularly in the case of people who are color or assigned female at birth.
Adults can seek private ADHD assessments to prevent delays and obstructions to NHS services, and to receive a diagnostic that they can apply for specialist assistance. However, GPs and other healthcare professionals have reasonable concerns about the validity of diagnoses that are made privately and may refuse treatment in accordance with the results.
To help reduce the severity of these issues, it is possible to offer training to primary care professionals to increase their understanding about ADHD and its effects on adults. It is also crucial to provide clear pathways for those who wish to receive support and treatment.
If their symptoms are managed those with ADHD are able to enjoy a good quality of life. They are able to achieve more and are more likely than their peers with no ADHD to do well in school and at work. It is essential to share your ADHD management with your family, teachers and friends.