Getting an ADHD Diagnosis
If you are an adult who suspects that you have ADHD and want to be diagnosed, the process can be challenging. Medical professionals often lack a clear understanding of the disorder and offer uninformed responses.
Additionally, waiting times can be long. Fortunately you have the ability to choose your own mental health care provider. This can accelerate your ADHD assessment.
Symptoms
A diagnosis will help you manage your life if you're struggling with ADHD symptoms, such as having trouble finding your keys often or having difficulty completing tasks at work. A thorough ADHD assessment is conducted by a mental health professional, who will have you fill out several questionnaires and evaluate your behavior over time. The information gathered will be used to determine your degree of ADHD and, if needed to suggest the most the most appropriate treatment options.
Psychiatrists are specialists in mental illness and they have access diagnostic tools. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is used to define each condition. The criteria for diagnosis include the presence of at minimum six of the following symptoms:
The psychiatrist will also look at your past to determine whether you've had similar issues in your childhood. The psychiatrist may ask for school records as well as questionnaires on family history. The psychiatrist may also ask you to attend a structured interview that can be scheduled for two sessions. It's usually helpful to bring a friend or family member for support and to keep an original copy of your medical records however, this isn't always needed.
The NHS has a lengthy waiting list for adults seeking ADHD assessment. This could leave people attracted to seeking a private diagnosis, however this is risky and it is difficult to compare the approaches of different practitioners. Psychiatrists are concerned that some private clinics are overdiagnosing patients with ADHD. According to an expert, this could indicate that patients aren't receiving the care they require and that resources are being wasted.
Being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can be extremely frustrating and distressing. Many people are not diagnosed because their GP refuses to refer them, or they don't believe they have the disorder. Some people are unable to accept their diagnosis, particularly when it's later in life. In adhd in adults undiagnosed may not accept the label or feel grief and frustration over missed opportunities. The majority of people who accept their diagnosis are pleased to implement strategies that help them succeed.
Diagnosis
ADHD is diagnosed by a psychiatrist or a specialist nurse with experience in diagnosing ADHD. In the UK adults are sent to the NHS for an ADHD assessment. However, waiting times can often be lengthy. In the meantime private mental health specialists like Priory hospitals and wellbeing centers can offer a diagnosis and initial treatment on a private basis.
During the interview, it's crucial for patients to be open and honest with their doctors. It is also essential that they don't hide information because of fears of shame or fear of criticism, as this could seriously impact the quality of their assessment.
The process of diagnosis is determined by the criteria outlined by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) and includes a review of the individual's background, from childhood to adulthood. The physician will also consider how the symptoms impact the person's ability to function at work, home, and in social situations. They will also determine whether there are any other co-occurring disorders like anxiety or depression.
Additionally, the doctor will also talk to family members to gain a better perspective on childhood behaviours and their influence on adults. This is particularly helpful for couples where ADHD symptoms can have a significant effect on relationships, and it's a good method for those who don't have ADHD to gain a better understanding of the issues that their partner may be facing.
If an ADHD diagnosis is reached, it's important to realise that being diagnosed with ADHD can be a source of many difficult feelings and issues. French says that "it can be a great relief however it's also difficult to accept since it requires you to admit that something about yourself isn't exactly right."
She has found that most people diagnosed with ADHD eventually accept the diagnosis and find it useful in understanding and dealing with their challenges. She's even seen instances where it's saved lives, by allowing people to seek support and avoid dangerous behaviour like substance abuse, alcoholism, or suicide.
Treatment
Many adults seeking an ADHD diagnosis do so because they feel that something is wrong, or they are struggling to cope in their everyday lives. This could cause them to experience problems with discipline at work, or relationships that fail or they may feel that they are not understood. They may also be suffering from other mental health issues and concerns, like depression and anxiety, that are not being addressed.
In these cases the first step is to schedule an appointment with the GP and describe the symptoms that are bothering you. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and will probably ask you to complete a questionnaire which will evaluate your behavior in different social circumstances. You may also be referred to a private specialist like Priory Hospital or a wellness centre, for an assessment. In this process session, you are typically asked to rate your behaviour in various situations and settings, with a partner or close friend, and the therapist can use this information to determine if ADHD is likely to be the reason behind your symptoms.
Your GP can help you select the best treatment option once you've been diagnosed. This could involve a combination of medication and talking therapy. The use of medication can be a great starting point as they can be a quick way to take action however, in the majority of cases, they're only effective as part of a complete treatment plan. Talking therapy can be a great way to deal with the underlying issues that are causing your ADHD symptoms. However, it is essential to find a therapist who knows about ADHD and the challenges it brings.
You should also check out support groups for those with ADHD. It is a useful, reassuring and motivating place to connect with others who are experiencing similar experiences to you. Some of these groups are completely free to join and can be found online or in person. You can also find out more about the subtypes of ADHD and the type you have, which will affect the type of medication that is most appropriate for you.
Support
ADHD is a long-lasting condition however, there are ways to manage it. First, you must make an appointment with an GP to discuss your symptoms. Your GP will then research the treatment options available in your locality.
Many adults aren't ready to ask for a diagnostic. It can be daunting. There are many reasons to seeking a diagnosis. Undiagnosed ADHD may cause problems at work and in relationships. It can also cause depression and anxiety that can have a negative impact on mental health. Untreated ADHD can also lead to impulsive driving and recklessness, which could be hazardous for others on the road.
The process of diagnosis may be long however it is essential to seek out the help you require. You could be referred by your doctor to a psychiatrist or psychologist who will evaluate your symptoms and determine how they affect your daily functioning. During the assessment the healthcare professional may ask you questions regarding your early years or adulthood. They will also assess whether your symptoms are sufficient to warrant treatment.
In the UK adults who are not diagnosed with ADHD can avail a variety of sources. These include forums, support groups and self-help strategies. You can even try using apps that can aid you in staying focused and organized. Some of these apps are free, but some require the purchase of a subscription.
The UK's national mental health service follows NICE guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in adults. These guidelines are based on the fact that adult ADHD can be missed and not treated. The NHS offers tests for adults who are not diagnosed with ADHD. However, waiting lists can be very long. Certain regions have wait times of up to eight years.
If you cannot get an ADHD assessment through the NHS, there are private psychiatrists who specialize in adult ADHD. They have vast experience with the disorder and can appreciate its complexities. They can provide a faster and more precise diagnosis. They are proficient in identifying disorders like depression and anxiousness that are often connected to ADHD. In London the cost of an individual ADHD evaluation can range from PS600 and PS1,200.