ADHD Diagnosis - Celebrities Help Remove the Stigma
Celebrities such as Simone Biles and Adam Levine have spoken out about their experiences with ADHD helping to dispel the stigma associated with the condition. A diagnosis of ADHD can be a life-changing event for many people.
An NHS diagnosis starts with a specialist assessment with either a psychologist or psychiatrist (as per Nice guidelines). It will be a 45-90 minute appointment.
Making an accurate diagnosis
The first step to control symptoms of ADHD can be to diagnose it. This will help you gain control over your daily life at home and work. Accurate diagnosis is important when you're constantly losing keys, struggling at work to finish your work, or disputing with your family about your impulsive purchases. A structured clinical assessment by a seasoned Consultant Psychiatrist can help you reach a correct diagnosis.
You can self-refer or be referred by your GP to see a psychiatrist who specialises in adult ADHD, but the process will be different according to the method you choose to take. You may have to pay for your own assessment when you self-refer. This is known as going private. If you are referred by your GP it will be for free.
In a thorough interview with you the psychiatrist will go over the history of your symptoms. They will also request feedback from people who are familiar with you, including teachers, family members, and colleagues. During the interview, they'll ask you to assess how your conditions affect your daily life in a variety of settings. They will also investigate any recent issues, including relationships or work issues. They will also ask you about any mental health issues you may have.
Your GP will then refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment. The test will typically consist of 45-90 minutes of discussion and ADHD questionnaires with a specialist psychiatrist or nurse. Certain NHS specialists might arrange for additional tests for testing for neuropsychological or learning disabilities.
If your doctor is of the opinion that you have ADHD and they recommend you to a specialist to conduct a further assessment and provide a medication prescription if appropriate. You can also request a referral to a private clinic like Priory, who have consultants with extensive experience of diagnosing adult ADHD and providing effective treatment for the condition.
The NHS is stretched and it may be difficult to refer you for an assessment when your doctor doesn't know about ADHD. Some GPs may refuse to diagnose adult ADHD in the event that they don't have the necessary expertise. By raising awareness and choosing the best GP will increase the chances of getting a thorough assessment.
Medication
The medication can aid people with ADHD to concentrate more effectively, feel calmer and be less impatient. They help by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals. Stimulants, such methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, are usually prescribed. Other medications, such as the non-stimulant atomoxetine as well as antidepressants (such as bupropion), may also be employed if stimulants aren't appropriate or cause serious side effects.
Some people with ADHD discover that changing their diet or supplements can help alleviate their symptoms. However, these strategies should only be considered under the supervision of a physician and with the help of an experienced dietitian. There is no evidence that these treatments work and they are not a substitute for professional treatment.
Medication is the most common treatment for ADHD in children and adults. People suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication unless instructed to do so by a doctor. Medication can have serious, sometimes life-threatening side consequences if stopped too early or not taken in a timely manner.
In addition to medications therapy is also a helpful way to manage ADHD symptoms. Psychological counselling, known as psychotherapy, can help children, teenagers and adults accept their diagnosis and learn to live with it. Cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that assists people transform negative thoughts and behaviors to more positive ones. Adults with ADHD can benefit from family and marital counseling, which can help them overcome the challenges they face in their relationships.
Despite the difficulties many people with ADHD achieve success at work and in their relationships. The disorder can lead to issues with education and careers however it can also assist people to gain a unique view of the world. For instance the hyperactivity and impulsiveness of ADHD can help people notice things that others don't and can help them succeed in their creative fields.
The first step to get an accurate diagnosis is to see your GP and have an open and frank discussion about your symptoms. Bring along any notes that you've written about your symptoms, as well as examples of how they have affected your daily routine. The doctor will then decide if they want to send you to an NHS assessment or to a different mental health specialist, such as psychologist or psychiatrist. If you live in England you can select the NHS mental healthcare provider you want.
Therapy
ADHD symptoms may present differently in adults, and this could make it difficult to obtain a diagnosis. You can search the internet for an ADHD specialist, or your general practitioner may refer you. This is not always the situation. The waiting time can be lengthy, especially in England and Wales where NHS guidelines require that they offer an ADHD service. Alternately, you can pay for an independent diagnosis and treatment. This isn't without risk, however, as many GPs will not prescribe medication when they've already diagnosed you privately.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be lengthy and often difficult for adults to receive a diagnosis than children. This is because it's not believed that ADHD can develop in adulthood, and also because GPs tend to consider those who have ADHD symptoms as "failures" or "problematic".
There are a few important gatekeepers in the healthcare system who are able to assist patients access diagnosis and treatment. This includes teachers, youth center workers, social workers, and police officers. They all have regular contact with a lot of youngsters and are more likely to recognize signs than parents. However, they may also be hindered by own prejudices, which could include overemphasizing the role of inadequate home environments and diet in causing ADHD symptoms.
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult can be difficult if you're multiply neurodivergent or have both autism and ADHD, or if you've previously been diagnosed with another mental health condition. This is due to the fact that these conditions may sometimes overlap with each and make it difficult to identify which one you're suffering from.
Fortunately that the NHS has launched a brand new pathway for ADHD assessments that are designed to cut down on waiting times. It's called the "right to choose" method, and it enables you to select your personal therapist for an assessment funded by the NHS. This means that if your home is in England it will be easier to obtain an ADHD assessment than it was in the past.
Support
ADHD Aware conducted a survey recently and found that people suffering from the condition are often difficult to cope. Many people report feeling like they're failing or do not deserve treatment. Some people aren't sure how to manage symptoms, and may be struggling working or with their family. They could also be misunderstood and lose their job as a result.
The signs of ADHD in adults can be difficult to recognise and understand, which means that they are often diagnosed with other mental health conditions. This could lead to incorrect treatment options, such as antidepressants, which could have severe negative side consequences. If you are concerned that you or someone you know has ADHD It is essential to talk to your doctor immediately. They can refer you to a specialist and arrange a test. The results of the test will allow you to decide whether medication or therapy is required.
Adults with ADHD require access to high-quality support services. The condition can cause severe problems in all areas of their life, from academic performance to relationships and career advancement. It can also cause anxiety and depression. Yet, many NHS trusts are struggling to provide sufficient services. Some are unable to meet demand and are facing long waiting times.
It is not always easy for a doctor to refer adult patients with ADHD to the local NHS mental health services. You can request your GP to exercise your right to choose and refer you to a specialist in the private sector if you wish to speed up the process. This is a more straightforward and more cost-effective option.
It is worth checking the waiting lists in your area to find out what the waiting times are for ADHD tests. The longer you wait is, the more difficult it is for you to get a diagnosis and get treatment. iampsychiatry.com is also worthwhile talking to a psychologist who specializes in the disorder, or asking your GP to refer you to one. They might be able to evaluate your situation quicker than a psychiatrist.