ADHD Diagnosis in Adults UK
If you have a suspicion that your child or you may have ADHD, you should speak to your GP. They will investigate your concerns and recommend the appropriate service.
A psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse will conduct an NHS assessment. They will determine whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment. They will also rule out other conditions such as anxiety or depression.
Symptoms
A person with ADHD has difficulty concentrating or focusing their attention focused on their tasks. They often lose things necessary for their work or daily activities (for instance, school supplies, tools, keys, wallets, papers, eyeglasses). They are unable to follow instructions and keep the track of time, and struggle to finish their work. They may also have trouble getting their turn in games or during conversations. They might talk too much and make a few blunders and interrupt others. They fidget, tap their hands or feet, or squirm while 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 are unable to regulate their emotions, and they may become easily excited or angry. They are unable to form and keeping friendships. They are often late to appointments and have trouble planning and organising. They may have poor eating habits, such as eating less or choosing high-calorie foods.
A mental health specialist will employ a variety of tests to see if an adult has ADHD. Physical and psychological tests, psychological assessments, and interviews with family members, friends, teachers, or colleagues will be taken into consideration. They will ask about the symptoms and how they affect them. They can request the school records from their past or talk to their parents, teachers or other people who knew them in their early years.
The symptoms of adult ADHD vary from mild to severe. The mild symptoms do not interfere with work or social relationships. Moderate symptoms can disrupt social and professional relationships however they don't have a long-lasting negative impact on an individual's life. Severe symptoms can have a negative effect on a person's social, academic and work life.
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to receive the same treatment as children. The most common medication prescribed is a stimulant drug. These include methylphenidate dexamphetamine and the lisdexamfetamine. Psychological therapy includes cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness techniques.
Diagnosis
Adults often have difficulty diagnosing ADHD. Adults often wait a long time for an assessment. This can be stressful and distressing. They may think that the professionals who conduct their assessments do not know what they are going through, particularly when they seem to have an anti ADHD prejudice and do not comprehend that ADHD symptoms can present in adults. The right diagnosis can help you determine the most effective treatment for adults with ADHD.
To determine the cause of ADHD to diagnose ADHD, a health care professional or mental health specialist will have to gather information from multiple sources, such as questionnaires and interviews with the patient, and feedback from others who know them well. diagnosed with adhd will also look for other disorders that share similar symptoms. In addition the health professional will review the patient's medical background and family history to determine if any physical or mental illnesses are present.
A doctor or specialist can utilize questionnaires that are completed by the child's caregivers and teachers, in addition to observations made in school. They can also conduct a cognitive assessment and screen for any learning issues. They can also rule out conditions that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse.
Adults may have difficulty diagnosing ADHD because the signs change over time. In general, hyperactivity and impulsiveness become less of an issue as adults, but inattentiveness continues to be a challenge. Adults with ADHD may also have difficulty in the workplace or maintaining healthy relationships. They may have trouble keeping their job, adhering to corporate guidelines, and meeting deadlines. They may also struggle with finances and debt due to excessive spending.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should consult their doctor, who will refer them to a psychiatrist for an assessment. The process could take some time, as NHS services are limited in their ability to diagnose ADHD and there are a lot of people who require help. If doctors are unable determine ADHD or do not recognize the signs, then it is important to consult a psychiatrist with experience with adult ADHD. Patients who do not want to wait for NHS evaluations should look into private healthcare. It is usually quicker and easier.
Treatment
People need an ADHD evaluation because their symptoms cause problems at work and in relationships. This includes frequent disciplinary actions at work, issues at college or school as well as ongoing marital and relationships problems.
Many of these problems can be addressed with medication and lifestyle changes. In some cases psychotherapy may also be helpful. Stimulant medications are a common treatment option for people suffering from ADHD however, people can also try non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine or melatonin to manage their symptoms. It is crucial to test every treatment option to find the one that works best for you.
In the UK, most people with ADHD are treated by the NHS. However the system is under increasing pressures with demand far over capacity. This has led to lengthy waiting times for ADHD assessment. According to a recent BBC investigation patients in England have to wait for up two years for an assessment.
Long wait times are a major cause for concern. The NHS is trying to reduce services using criteria like severity of symptom or impairment, as well as risk. adhd diagnose can be problematic in that it could cause patients to be denied services or marginalized.
To avoid this problem, people should contact their GP for an appointment at a specialist clinic that diagnoses adult ADHD and other neurodiverse illnesses. They should be able to explain their symptoms to the GP and it could be beneficial to know some knowledge of adult ADHD before the appointment to help prepare for the consultation.
After the GP has directed you to an ADHD specialist clinic and you have a consultation with psychiatrists who will analyze your condition. They will consider your family and personal history and the problems your symptoms are causing in your life. They will also take into account the effects of your health issues on your working and overall wellbeing.
Your psychiatrist may suggest that you start taking medication. They may also suggest other treatments such as psychotherapy or lifestyle changes. For instance, they may suggest a change to your diet or exercise routine to improve your focus and energy levels. Additionally, they could recommend a career coach to assist you with time management or a counselor who can provide strategies to cope with your emotional turmoil and interpersonal issues.
Support
Many people with ADHD do not receive a diagnosis until adulthood. Many who suffer from ADHD have lived with symptoms for a long time, and compensated for their symptoms as they grew older - by working harder or studying to compensate for difficulty paying attention in class or taking risks to prevent the consequences of acting out. As adults they might have more responsibilities, such as managing a household, raising children or pursuing a career which can add more demands and stress to their lives. This can cause an increase in the intensity of symptoms, leading to people feeling overwhelmed and unhappy.
Due to the increased demand for ADHD assessments and the limited capacity, the NHS is currently experiencing lengthy waiting times. In the future it is likely that NHS will adopt an approach known as a "rationing" approach in which patients are allocated appointments based on various factors like the severity of their symptoms as well as how much their issues affect their quality of living. This is a controversial notion, as it may cause some groups of patients to be disadvantaged, e.g. those who have comorbid conditions.
The use of symptom or impairment scales can be used to ration care, but certain patients may exaggerate the severity of their ailments in order to satisfy the requirements. A better option is to agree on a common standard that everyone must meet, which would improve consistency and ensure everyone receives the same quality of care.
If you suspect you may have ADHD and are concerned, it is recommended to speak with your GP. They aren't able to officially diagnose you however, they can refer you for an assessment by an expert psychiatrist. If you're on long waiting lists, you can ask for a quicker referral using your right to choose option, which lets you choose the NHS organization that will provide the care you need when you're referred.
Private mental health professionals also provide ADHD assessments. The process is similar with the NHS and involves a single consultation with psychiatrist. They will be aware of your concerns and conduct a thorough psychological evaluation by analyzing symptoms checklists and behavioural rating scales. The doctor will identify ADHD and will discuss possible treatment options.