ADHD Diagnosis in Adults UK
If you are concerned that you or your child may have ADHD and you suspect that they may be suffering from it, talk to your GP. They will consider your concerns seriously and recommend the appropriate service.
A psychologist, psychiatrist, or specialist nurse will conduct an NHS assessment. They will determine if your ADHD symptoms cause significant impairment. They will also try and rule out other disorders, like anxiety or depression.
Symptoms
A person with ADHD may have difficulty concentrating on a task or keeping their attention. They often lose things that are essential to their daily activities or work (such as school materials tools, wallets or eyeglasses, papers, etc.). They are unable to follow instructions, focusing on time and finishing work. They may also have trouble getting their turn in games or conversations. They can be too busy or make mistakes and disrupt others. They fidget, tap their feet or hands or squirm when sitting. In the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, a person is always "on the go," and they have problems sitting still or playing quietly. They may have trouble regulating their emotions, and are easily angry or overwhelmed. They have a difficult time making and maintaining friendships. They struggle with organisation and planning, and they frequently miss appointments. They might have poor eating habits, like skipping meals or consuming a lot of calories.
A mental health professional will employ a variety of tests to see whether an adult suffers from ADHD. Physical and psychological tests, psychological assessments as well as interviews with parents, partners, family and teachers are all part of the test. They will inquire about symptoms and how they affect them. They might ask for their old school records or talk with their parents, teachers or any others they knew when they were younger.
Symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe. The mild symptoms are not a hindrance with social or work relationships. Moderate symptoms can interfere with social and work relationships, but they do not have a lasting negative impact on an individual's life. In the case of severe symptoms, they can have a negative effect on an individual's social, academic and work life.
Treatment options for adults with ADHD are similar to that for children. Stimulant medication is the most frequently prescribed. Examples of these are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Equasym), dexamphetamine (Dexadrine) and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques are two kinds of psychological therapy.
Diagnosis
Adults are often unable to diagnose ADHD. Many adults experience a long wait for an assessment, which can be distressing and stressful. adhd diagnosed may feel that they are not understood by the experts who evaluate them, particularly if those professionals are displaying anti-ADHD bias and do not know that the signs of ADHD can be present in adults. Finding the right diagnosis can help to determine the best treatment and support for adults suffering from ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD health professionals or mental health specialists will require information from a variety of sources. This includes questionnaires, interviews, and feedback from people who know the patient well. They will also check for other disorders that share similar symptoms. In addition, the health care provider will examine the patient's medical history and family history to determine whether any mental or physical diseases are present.
A specialist or doctor may utilize questionnaires that are completed by the child's parents and teachers, as well observations made at school. They can also conduct a cognitive test and test for learning disabilities. In addition, they'll determine if there are other conditions that can cause the same symptoms as ADHD like anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs.
A diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for adults, as the symptoms tend to change as time passes. Generally speaking, the hyperactive and impulsive symptoms are less problematic as you age, but inattention symptoms continue to be more of a challenge. Adults with ADHD might also have difficulties working in a professional setting or maintaining healthy relationships. They may have difficulty keeping a job and following corporate rules. In addition, impulsive spending can result in financial issues and debt.
Adults who think they may have ADHD should speak to their GP. They can refer them to a psychiatrist to be evaluated. The process could take a long time, because NHS services have limited resources to diagnose ADHD and a significant number of people in need of assistance. If doctors are unable identify ADHD or aren't able to recognize the symptoms and signs, it is crucial to consult an experienced psychiatrist who has dealt with adult ADHD. Those who don't want to wait on NHS tests should consider private healthcare. It is usually quicker and more convenient.
Treatment
The main reason people need an ADHD assessment is that their symptoms cause problems in relationships and work. These include frequent disciplinary measures in the workplace, difficulties at college or school, and ongoing marital and relationships problems.
Many of these issues can be solved by medications and lifestyle changes. In some cases psychotherapy may also be helpful. Stimulant medication is a typical treatment option for people suffering from ADHD however, people may also consider non-stimulant medications such as melatonin or atomoxetine to manage their symptoms. It is important to try all treatment options to determine which one is the most effective for you.
In the UK the majority of those diagnosed with ADHD receive treatment through the NHS. The system is under increasing pressure, as the demand for ADHD treatment overflows its capacity. This has led to long waiting times for ADHD evaluations. A recent BBC investigation revealed that patients in England have to wait up to two years for an assessment.
The long wait time frames are a cause of concern. The NHS attempts to ration services by criteria such as symptom intensity, impairment and risk. This approach isn't always a good idea in that it could cause patients to be excluded or even disadvantaged.
To avoid this issue, people should consult their GP for an appointment at a specialist clinic that can diagnose adult ADHD and other neurodiverse conditions. They should describe their symptoms to the GP and it could be beneficial to know some knowledge of adult ADHD beforehand to help them prepare for the appointment.
After your GP has directed you to an ADHD specialist clinic where you will be able to meet with a psychiatrist who will evaluate your condition. They will consider your personal and family history and any problems that your symptoms might be causing you. They will also take into account the effects of your symptoms on your health, working and overall wellbeing.
Your physician may recommend that you begin taking medication. They could recommend other treatments, such as therapy or lifestyle changes. For instance, they may suggest a change to your diet or exercise routine to boost your focus and energy levels. Additionally, they may suggest a career coach to assist you with time management or a counselor to teach you coping strategies for your emotional turmoil and interpersonal challenges.
Support
Many people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Many people with ADHD have lived with symptoms for a long time and have compensated for their symptoms as they grew older - by working harder or studying to compensate for their inability to concentrate in class or taking risks to prevent the consequences of acting out. As adults, they could face more responsibilities like running a household, raising children, or working which adds additional pressures and stress their lives. This could increase the severity of their symptoms, leading them to become overwhelmed and unhappy.
The NHS is currently faced with long wait times for ADHD tests, which is due to increased demand and limited capacity. In the near future, it's likely that the NHS will implement a rationing system which means that patients will be given an appointment based upon a number of factors such as how severe their symptoms are and how badly their problems impact their quality of life. This is a controversial idea that could lead to certain groups of patients to be disadvantaged, e.g. those with comorbid conditions.
Rationing could be achieved via the use of impairment and symptom scales, but there are concerns that patients would overstate their symptoms to meet the criteria. The best solution is to establish an agreed-upon standard that all patients must meet, which will ensure consistency and that all patients receive the same quality of care.
If you think you might be suffering from ADHD and you think you might have it, go to your GP. They cannot diagnose you formally, but can refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment. If there are lengthy waiting lists, you can ask for a faster referral through your right to choose which lets you select the NHS organisation that provides your treatment when you're recommended.
Private mental health practitioners offer ADHD assessments. The process is similar to that of the NHS and will include a one-off consultation with a qualified psychiatrist. They will listen to your concerns and perform an exhaustive psychological evaluation, gathering information using symptom checklists and behavior rating scales. The doctor will identify ADHD and then discuss the treatment options.