5 Lessons You Can Learn From Diagnosing ADHD UK
Diagnosing ADHD in the UK
In England, Scotland and Wales, GPs cannot diagnose ADHD. However they can refer you to a specialist on the NHS for an assessment. This is called a 'right to choose' referral.
A thorough ADHD assessment can take between 45 and 90 minutes. The psychiatrist may require you to fill out questionnaires and provide supporting evidence, like old school reports.
The Assessment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is the first step to managing it effectively. Without a diagnosis, people don't know how to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at work, school and in relationships. People suffering from ADHD exhibit impulsiveness and hyperactivity regularly. However, everyone experiences these behaviors occasionally, there are some that are more frequent. They are unorganized and have difficulty planning. They are prone to procrastinate and are unable to meet deadlines regardless of their best efforts. They might be physically fidgety, unable remain still, and may find it easy to become distracted even when engaged in a pleasurable pursuit. They might also have issues with their memory and may forget important events or appointments.
Adults are more difficult to diagnose than children. The diagnostic criteria in the DSM-V - the mental health manual used by doctors across the world - are designed towards diagnosing children, but it is more difficult to determine ADHD symptoms in the adulthood. The process of assessment is based on a series of clinical sessions with a specialist.
The clinician will ask about the person's behaviour over their life time, taking into account their symptoms and how they have impacted their lives. They may also interview relatives or close friends, if appropriate and if they have consented. This method is particularly helpful when conducting an assessment of adults for ADHD. It helps distinguish the condition from other medical conditions like emotional disorders, sleep disorders and autism spectrum disorder.
To ensure that the assessment is accurate, the person being assessed should be honest and forthcoming with their answers. They must be prepared to answer numerous questions and anticipate that the interview will take most of the time. They should bring any documents or documentation that may be relevant to the evaluation and include the history of medical issues like allergies and other conditions, with them. They should be aware that a clinician may need to use various tests and questionnaires to arrive at an informed decision.
Medication
For adults and children who struggle with ADHD symptoms, medications can aid in easing their problems. This usually happens after an assessment has been conducted with a specialist, like paediatricians or psychiatrists. The specialist can discuss with you the most effective treatments options once an assessment has been completed. This may involve treatment, medication or an amalgamation of both.
A psychiatrist will search for patterns of symptoms, as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to determine an ADHD diagnosis. They will also consider the impact the symptoms have on your daily life. This includes how they impact on your relationships, work and your school and home activities. They also consider the fact that the symptoms have been present since childhood.
ADHD medications are typically stimulants such as dexamphetamine or methylphenidate (Ritalin). They increase neurotransmitters inside the brain. Based on your symptoms, your doctor may start you on the lowest dosage and then slowly increase it. They will also monitor you closely for side effects.
If you have a history of other mental health issues, it's crucial to inform your GP. This will allow them to determine if your ADHD symptoms are related to any of these illnesses.
It isn't uncommon for people with ADHD to have comorbidities, such as depression or anxiety. They are also more likely to experience'meltdowns' which occur when they are overwhelmed with emotions. They might yell, cry, and move around wildly all at once. It's like a child throwing a tantrum.
Some people suffering from ADHD can develop headaches, stomachaches and nosebleeds. It is important to screen when you conduct your examination for medical conditions such as thyroid and sleep apnea. It is also important to be aware that certain beverages and foods can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. It is recommended to avoid caffeine, sugary and processed foods, as well as artificial flavors and colours. During a consultation your psychiatrist will be able to advise on the best strategy for managing your ADHD symptoms.
Shared Management
Unmanaged ADHD symptoms can cause people to experience problems at work or with relationships. These problems can have a direct impact on their physical wellbeing and health. Therefore, it is crucial that they receive appropriate treatment and support by a healthcare professional who has the training and expertise in the management of ADHD.
The NHS offers a service to children and adolescents who suffer from ADHD. This includes assessment, treatment, and assistance. The service is provided by healthcare professionals who have specialist training in the treatment of ADHD, such as Psychiatrists and Clinical Psychologists. Assessment of children and adolescents with ADHD may include taking a detailed development and psychosocial history, observing, and use of standardised tests and psychological tests. It could also involve consultation with family members and carers.
In the UK those seeking assistance for ADHD are often greeted by a community that can help or hinder diagnosis and assistance. The knowledge and attitude of these gatekeepers, as well the availability of services, will influence the ease with which a child or young person suffering from ADHD can navigate the system.
Attendees of the meeting expressed concerns about the long waiting times for CAMHS services and the rejection rates for adolescents with ADHD. When people finally get seen they might receive interventions that are not tailored to meet their specific requirements. The representatives of charities have told of anecdotal stories of children with serious comorbidities like self-harming behavior and eating disorders, being denied access to treatment because they were considered signs of ADHD rather than a sign of mental distress that needed immediate intervention.
The ability of GPs to treat ADHD is not as effective. They are the ones responsible to diagnose the condition and refer patients to specialists if required. Depending on their skills and expertise in the field, the GP may recommend behavioural therapy or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to manage ADHD symptoms. They might also suggest that the person seek help by a psychologist who is specialized in this area of mental illness.
Support
In the UK, GPs can assess whether ADHD is likely and refer to an expert for further evaluation. This includes a complete medical history and a check for other health issues, such as depression or anxiety. It's also important to look into other causes such as food allergies that could make symptoms worse.
Once get adhd diagnosis is confirmed, medications can help alleviate symptoms. This may involve taking tablets or talking therapy. In some instances, dietary modifications can also help in managing symptoms. Those who suffer from ADHD are often unable to receive the help they require. It's important 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 those with ADHD. They can share their experiences and develop strategies together.
Adults suffering from ADHD may have difficulty receiving the correct diagnosis or treatment because some healthcare professionals have preconceived notions about what a person with ADHD 'looks like'. This could make difficult for those who belong to minorities to receive the correct diagnosis, particularly if they are of colour or assigned female at birth.
Adults may seek private ADHD assessments to prevent delays and obstructions to NHS services, and also to receive a diagnostic that they can use when applying for specialist support. Health professionals and GPs may be concerned about legitimacy of treatment based on privately written diagnoses.
Providing training for primary care providers to increase their knowledge of ADHD and how it affects adults can help reduce the incidence of these issues. It is also helpful to have clear ways for people who want to seek help and treatment.
If their symptoms are under control those with ADHD can enjoy a great quality of life. They can achieve a lot and are more likely to be successful in work and school than their peers who don't have ADHD. It's important that you share your ADHD management with your parents, teachers, and friends.