ADHD Diagnosis - Celebrities Help Remove the Stigma
Celebrities like Simone Biles, Adam Levine and others have opened up about their experiences with ADHD. This has helped remove the stigma that surrounds the condition. For many people, getting 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). It will be a 45-90 minute appointment.
Getting an answer to a question
ADHD diagnosis is the first step towards controlling the symptoms that can cause havoc on your life, at home and at work. It is crucial to get the right diagnosis when you're constantly losing keys, struggling to complete your tasks, or arguing with your family about your impulse purchases. A structured clinical assessment by an experienced Consultant Psychiatrist can help you get a proper diagnosis.
You may self-refer to a psychiatrist who specializes in adult ADHD or you can be directed by your GP. The procedure will differ based on the method you select. If you self-refer, you may have to pay for the test yourself by referring to it as going private. If your doctor recommends you, it's free.
The psychiatrist will discuss the background of your symptoms with you in a thorough interview, and they will also seek feedback from people who know you well, like teachers, family members, and colleagues. During the interview they will ask you to assess how your conditions impact on your everyday functioning in a variety of settings. They will also inquire about any issues that have arisen recently like issues with relationships or work. They will also inquire about any co-existing mental health conditions you might have.
Your doctor will recommend you to the NHS for an ADHD assessment. The assessment will usually include an hour-long meeting with a specialist nurse or psychiatrist and ADHD questionnaires. Certain NHS doctors may also arrange for additional testing like testing for neuropsychological or learning disabilities.
If your GP agrees that you have ADHD and they recommend you to a specialist service for further evaluation and a medication prescription if appropriate. You can also request an appointment at Priory which is a private clinic with consultants who have extensive experience in diagnosing adult ADHD. They can provide effective treatment.
However, NHS services are stretched and it can be challenging to get a referral an assessment, especially in the event that your GP is not familiar with ADHD. Some GPs may refuse to diagnose adult ADHD in the event that they don't have the necessary expertise. By raising awareness and selecting the most appropriate GP, you can improve the chances of getting a thorough assessment.
Medication
The medications can assist people suffering from ADHD to focus more effectively, feel calmer and less impatient. They do this by boosting certain brain chemicals. Stimulants, such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, are usually prescribed. Other medications, such as atomoxetine which is a non-stimulant and antidepressants like bupropion may be prescribed when stimulants fail to work or cause severe adverse side effects.
Some people with ADHD may find that dietary adjustments or supplements may help improve their symptoms. These methods should be used only under medical supervision and with the guidance of an experienced dietitian. There is no evidence that these treatments work, and they are not an alternative to professional treatment.
The most commonly used treatment for ADHD in adults and children is medication. It is crucial that those with ADHD don't stop taking their medication without seeking a doctor's guidance. The medication can cause dangerous, sometimes life-threatening effects if it is stopped too quickly or not taken in a timely manner.
Therapy can be an effective method to control ADHD symptoms, in addition to medication. Psychotherapy, or psychological counselling, can help adults, teens, and children accept their diagnosis and learn to deal with them. Cognitive therapy for behavioural problems is a type of psychotherapy which helps people change their negative thoughts and behaviours into more positive ones. Counselling for family and marriage can be useful for adults with ADHD because it can assist them in dealing with the difficulties that arise in their relationships.
Despite the challenges they face, many with ADHD are happy at work and in relationships. The disorder can lead to issues in the field of education and career, but it also helps people gain a unique perspective on the world. For instance the hyperactivity and impulsiveness of ADHD can enable people to notice details that others miss which can allow them to be more successful in creative fields.
The first step to get an accurate diagnosis is to see your GP and have a candid and honest discussion about your symptoms. It's a good idea to bring along any notes you've taken about your symptoms and also examples of how they've affected your life. The GP will then decide whether to send you to an NHS assessment or to another mental health specialist like a psychiatrist or psychologist. If you live in England, you can choose the NHS mental healthcare provider you want.
Therapy
Adult ADHD symptoms can manifest 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 is not always the situation. The wait times can be long particularly in England and Wales where NHS guidelines require them to offer an ADHD service. Alternatively, you can pay for an independent diagnosis and treatment. This isn't without risk however, since many GPs will not prescribe medication if they've already diagnosed you privately.
The process of obtaining an ADHD diagnosis can take a long time, and it's often more difficult for adults to get an assessment than children. This is because adults who have ADHD symptoms are often seen as "problematic" or "failures".
However, there are some key gatekeepers in the healthcare system that can help patients access diagnosis and treatment. Teachers, social workers, youth workers, and police officers are all examples of these individuals. They are in regular contact with a large number of young people and are more able to recognize signs than their parents. They can be hampered by their own prejudices. For example they may not be able to emphasize the role of a poor diet and the home environment in causing ADHD symptoms.
It can be difficult to get an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood if you are multiple neurodivergent (such as having both ADHD and autism) or when your mental health was previously diagnosed. These conditions can overlap and make it difficult to know which one you're dealing with.
The NHS has launched a new ADHD assessment pathway that is designed to cut down on waiting time. It's referred to as the "right to choose" option which allows you to select your own therapist for an NHS-funded test. If you live in England, getting an ADHD assessment is easier than ever before.
Support
In a recent study, ADHD Aware found that adults who are diagnosed with the condition may be extremely frustrated. Many report feeling like they're failing or do not deserve treatment. Many people aren't sure how to manage symptoms, and may struggle with their family or job. They could also be misinterpreted by the people around them and could lose their jobs due to this.
The symptoms of ADHD in adults can be difficult to identify and comprehend, meaning that they can be incorrectly diagnosed with other mental health disorders. This can lead people to be treated in a way that is not appropriate, for example, antidepressants, which can have severe side-effects. It is important to consult a GP if you suspect that you or someone you know has ADHD. They can refer you to a specialist and arrange a test to be conducted. The results of the test will determine whether medication or treatment is needed.
It is vital that adults diagnosed with ADHD are able to access quality support services. This is because the condition could create significant issues in all aspects of their lives, from academic success to relationships and career development. It can also cause anxiety and depression. Despite this, NHS trusts struggle to provide the right services. Some NHS trusts are unable satisfy the demands, and have long waiting times.
It is not always easy for a GP to refer adults with ADHD to the local NHS mental health service. You can request your GP to exercise your right of choice and refer you to a specialist in the private sector if you wish to speed up the process. This is a more straightforward and cost-effective option.
See if there are waiting lists for ADHD assessments in your region. The longer you are waiting, the harder it will be to obtain the right diagnosis and treatment. It is also advisable to talk to a specialist psychologist in the condition, or asking your GP for a referral to one. They may be able to evaluate you faster than psychiatrists.