ADHD Diagnosis - Celebrities Help Remove the Stigma
Celebrities such as Simone Biles and Adam Levine have shared their experiences with ADHD helping to dispel the stigma associated with the condition. For many, being diagnosed with ADHD is a life-changing experience.
A diagnosis on the NHS begins with a specialized evaluation by a psychiatrist or psychological professional (as per Nice guidelines). The appointment will last between 45 and 90 minute appointment.
Finding an accurate diagnosis
The first step in controlling symptoms of ADHD is to recognize it. This will allow you to achieve control over your home life and work. A precise diagnosis is essential regardless of whether you're constantly losing keys, struggling at work to complete tasks or fighting with your family members about your impulse purchases. A thorough clinical assessment by a seasoned Consultant Psychiatrist can assist you to reach a correct diagnosis.
You can self-refer or have your GP to consult a psychiatrist that specializes in adult ADHD However, the process will differ depending on which route you choose to take. If you self-refer you may need to pay for the assessment on your own, known as going private. If you are referred by your GP, it is free.
The psychiatrist will discuss the history of your symptoms with you during a thorough interview, and they will also ask for feedback from other people who know you well, like teachers, family members and colleagues. During the interview they will ask you to rate how your symptoms impact on your everyday functioning in a variety of settings. They will also inquire about any problems that have occurred recently for example, issues with work or relationships. They will also inquire about any co-existing mental health issues you may have.
Your GP will then refer you for an NHS ADHD assessment. The test typically includes a 45-90 minute meeting with a specialist nurse or psychiatrist, as well as ADHD questionnaires. Some NHS clinicians will arrange for additional neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities testing as necessary.
If your doctor agrees that you have ADHD, they will refer you to a specialist for further assessment and a medication prescription if appropriate. You could also ask for the referral to a private clinic such as Priory which has specialists who have extensive experience in 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 if your doctor does not know about ADHD. Doctors who aren't aware of adult ADHD might not be able to provide the assistance and support you need and some might even refuse to diagnose it. You can increase your chances of getting a speedy, thorough assessment by making an effort to increase awareness and ensuring that you select the right GP to recommend you to.
Medication
Medications can help people with ADHD focus better, become less impulsive, and feel more calm. They do this by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals. Most commonly prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine. Other medications like atomoxetine, a non-stimulant, and antidepressants like bupropion may be prescribed when stimulants fail to perform or cause serious side effects.
Certain people suffering from ADHD may find that dietary changes or supplements can aid in reducing their symptoms. However, these methods should only be considered under medical guidance and with the assistance of a dietitian. There is no strong evidence that these treatments work, and they should not be used as an alternative to professional treatment.
The most commonly used medication is treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Patients with ADHD should not stop taking their medication unless advised to do so by a physician. Medicines can have dangerous, sometimes life-threatening effects if it is stopped too quickly or not taken properly.
In addition to medications therapy is also beneficial in managing ADHD symptoms. Psychological counselling, known as psychotherapy, can assist teens, children and adults accept their diagnosis and become comfortable with it. Cognitive therapy is a kind of psychotherapy which helps people transform their negative thoughts and behaviors to positive ones. Marital and family counselling can be beneficial for adults with ADHD, as it can help them deal with the issues that arise in their relationships.
Despite the challenges, many people with ADHD are successful at work and in their relationships. The disorder can cause issues in the field of education and career, but it can also allow people to gain a new perspective on the world. For instance the hyperactivity and impulsiveness of ADHD can help people notice the details that others do not, which can help them succeed in their creative fields.
The first step to get the diagnosis is to visit your GP and have a candid and honest discussion about your symptoms. Bring along any notes that you've taken regarding your symptoms as well as examples of how these have affected your everyday life. The GP decides here whether to refer you for an NHS assessment, or to another mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. If you reside in England you can select the NHS mental health provider you prefer.
Therapy
Adult ADHD symptoms can present differently, making it difficult to determine the cause. You can find an ADHD specialist online, or in some instances, a general physician will be willing to refer you to one. However, this isn't always the case. The wait times can be long particularly in England and Wales where NHS guidelines require them to provide an ADHD service. Alternately, you can pay for an independent private diagnosis and treatment. It's not without risk however, since many GPs do not prescribe medication when they've already diagnosed you privately.
It takes a long time to get an ADHD diagnosis and adults typically have a more difficult time obtaining one than children. It's because people with ADHD symptoms are usually viewed as "problematic" or "failures".
There are several key gatekeepers that can help patients gain access to diagnosis and treatment. Teachers, social workers, youth workers, and police officers are all examples of these people. They are in regular contact with a lot of young people and are better at identifying signs than their parents. They can be hampered by their own biases. For example, they may overemphasize the role of poor diet and home environments in the development of ADHD symptoms.
It can be challenging to receive an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood, especially if you're multiple neurodivergent (such as having both ADHD and autism) or if your mental health has been previously diagnosed. These conditions can overlap and make it difficult to know which one you have.
Fortunately that the NHS has introduced a new pathway for ADHD assessments that is designed to decrease waiting time. It's known as the "right to choose" pathway which allows you to select your own therapist for an NHS-funded test. If you reside in England the process of getting an ADHD assessment is simpler than ever before.
Support
ADHD Aware conducted an online survey and found that those suffering from the condition often find it difficult to manage. Many feel as if they are failing or are not worthy of treatment. Others are confused about how to manage their symptoms and struggle with work or family life. They may also be misunderstood and lose their job as a result.
The symptoms of ADHD in adults can be difficult to identify and comprehend, meaning that they are often incorrectly diagnosed with other mental health issues. This can lead to inappropriate treatment, like antidepressants that can cause grave negative side effects. If you're worried that you or someone you know suffers from ADHD It is essential to speak to a GP immediately. They can refer you and arrange a test. The results of the test will help to decide whether medication or therapy is required.
It is crucial that those diagnosed with ADHD are able to access quality support services. The condition can cause severe problems in every area of their life, from academic performance to relationships and career advancement. It can also cause depression and anxiety. However, NHS trusts struggle to provide adequate services. Some NHS trusts are unable meet demand, and have long waiting times.
Adults with ADHD can be referred to their local NHS mental health services by their physician, but this can be long and time-consuming. If you want to speed up the process, you can ask your GP about exercising your right to select and request that they refer you to a private service. This is a faster and cost-effective choice.
It is worth checking the waiting lists in your area to see what the waiting times are for ADHD tests. The longer the wait, the more difficult it is for you to get a diagnosis and get treatment. It is also worth talking to a psychologist who specializes in the condition, or asking your GP to refer you to one. They might be able to evaluate you faster than psychiatrists.