ADHD Diagnosis in Adults UK
Talk with your GP if you suspect that you or your children may be suffering from ADHD. They will take your concerns seriously and refer you to the right 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 to rule out other disorders like anxiety or depression.
Signs and symptoms
A person with ADHD struggles with concentration or focusing their attention focused on their tasks. They often lose things that are necessary to carry out their everyday activities (for example, school materials, tools, keys, glasses, wallets, papers). They find it hard to follow instructions and keep track of time, and they struggle to finish their work. They also have a difficult time waiting for their turn in games or conversations. They can interrupt other people, talk too much or make a few erroneous mistakes. They are prone to fidget, tap their hands or feet, or squirm when they are 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 difficulty regulating their emotions and can become easily upset or angry. They have difficulty making and maintaining friendships. They struggle with organisation and planning, and are often late for appointments. They may have poor eating habits, like skipping meals or choosing high-calorie foods.
A mental health professional will employ a variety of tests to determine if an adult has ADHD. Physical examinations, psychological assessments, and interviews with family members, friends, teachers, or colleagues will be included. They will inquire about the symptoms and how they affect them. They might ask for their school records from the past or talk with their parents, teachers, or others they knew when they were younger.
The symptoms of adult ADHD can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms don't hinder in work or social relationships. Moderate symptoms can interfere with social and work relationships but they don't have a long-lasting negative impact on an individual's life. The most severe symptoms can have a profound negative impact on a person's social, work and academic life and can be very disruptive to their daily lives.
Adults suffering from ADHD are eligible for the same treatment as children. The stimulant medication is the one most often prescribed. Examples of these drugs include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Equasym), dexamphetamine (Dexadrine) and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). Psychological therapy includes cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness techniques.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of ADHD isn't always easy for adults. Many adults have a long waiting time for an assessment which can be a stressful and anxious. It is possible that they are not being understood by the professionals who assess them, particularly if those professionals appear to have anti-ADHD bias and do not understand that symptoms of ADHD can be seen in adults. The right diagnosis will help you determine the best treatment for adult ADHD.
To determine the cause of ADHD Health care specialists or mental health professionals will need to collect data from several sources. These include questionnaires, interviews, and feedback from those who know the patient well. They will also check for other disorders that have similar symptoms. In addition the health care professional will look at the person's medical background and family history to see whether any mental or physical illnesses are present.
A specialist or doctor may use questionnaires filled out by the child's caregivers and teachers, as well as observations made in school. They may also conduct a cognitive test and test for learning disabilities. They also look for conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD, such a depression, anxiety or addiction to drugs.
Adults may have difficulty diagnosing ADHD because the symptoms may change over time. In general, hyperactivity and impulsiveness tend to diminish as you age, but inattention continues to be a challenge. Additionally, adults who have ADHD often have difficulty in the workplace and maintaining healthy relationships. They may struggle to keep a job, following corporate guidelines, and meeting deadlines. They might also have issues with finances and debt due to impulsive spending.
Adults who believe they have ADHD should consult their doctor. They can refer them to a psychiatrist for them to be evaluated. The process may take a while, as NHS services are limited in their ability to diagnose ADHD and there are many people who require assistance. Doctors may not have the experience and knowledge to properly examine ADHD and, if they don't recognize the symptoms, it is essential to find a psychiatrist with a good understanding of adult ADHD. People who don't wish to wait for NHS assessments may want to consider private health care, which is typically quicker and simpler.
Treatment
The main reason people are seeking an ADHD assessment is because their symptoms cause problems in relationships and work. These include frequent disciplinary measures in the workplace, problems at college or in school, and ongoing marital and relationships problems.
Medication and lifestyle changes can solve many of these issues. In some instances psychotherapy may also be helpful. Stimulant medications are a common treatment option for adults with ADHD however, people may also consider non-stimulant medications such as melatonin or atomoxetine to manage their symptoms. It is essential for patients to research all treatment options to determine the best solution for them.
In the UK the majority of those diagnosed with ADHD receive their treatment through the NHS. The system is under greater pressure, due to the fact that the demand for ADHD treatment exceeds the capacity of the system. This has led to long waiting times for ADHD assessments. A recent BBC investigation revealed that ADHD patients in England have to wait up to two years for an assessment.
The long wait times are a cause for anxiety. The NHS is attempting to reduce services according to criteria like severity of symptoms, impairment and risks. However, this approach is dangerous because it can lead to patients being disadvantaged or even excluded.
To avoid this issue individuals should contact their GP to schedule an appointment with a specialist clinic that diagnoses adult ADHD and other neurodiverse illnesses. They should explain their symptoms to their GP and it could be beneficial to know some knowledge of adult ADHD before the appointment to help prepare for the consultation.
After your GP refers you to a specialist ADHD clinic where you'll visit psychiatrist. They will examine your condition. They will take into consideration your personal and family history, as well as the issues your symptoms cause in your life. They will also take into account the effects on your work, health and wellbeing.
Your physician may suggest to start taking medication. They may also suggest other treatments like therapy or lifestyle changes. For example, they might suggest a change to your diet or exercise routine to improve your energy levels and focus. Additionally, they may suggest a career coach to help you with time management or a counselor who will provide strategies to cope with your emotional distress and interpersonal issues.
Support
Many people with ADHD do not have a diagnosis until adulthood. They may have lived with their symptoms for a long time trying to cope with them as they grew older and had to work harder or study more to make up for difficulties paying attention in school, or taking risks to avoid the negative consequences of acting impulsively. As adults, they could face more responsibilities - managing a household, raising children or pursuing a career which adds more pressure and stress to their lives. get diagnosed with adhd might increase the severity of their symptoms, leading them to become stressed and unhappy.
Due to the growing demand for ADHD tests and the limitations of capacity in the NHS, the NHS is currently experiencing lengthy waiting times. In the future it is likely that the NHS will implement a rationing system which means that patients will be assigned an appointment based on various factors, including the severity of their symptoms and how much their issues impact their quality of life. This is a controversial notion because it could cause some groups of patients to be excluded, e.g. those who have comorbid conditions.
The use of impairment or symptom scales could be used to limit care, but some patients might exaggerate their severity of their symptoms to meet the standards. A more reasonable solution is to come up with an acceptable standard that everyone have to meet. This would improve consistency and ensure that all patients receive the same quality of care.
If you suspect you may have ADHD, it is best to consult your GP. They can't diagnose you officially however, they can refer you to a psychiatrist to conduct an assessment. You can request a quicker referral if you have long wait lists. This is possible through your "right to select" which allows you to choose the NHS organisation who will provide your care.
Private mental health professionals can also provide ADHD assessments. The procedure is similar to that of the NHS and will include a one-off consultation with an experienced psychiatrist. They will be aware of your concerns and conduct a thorough psychological examination and gather information from symptom checklists and behavioural rating scales. The doctor will diagnose ADHD and will discuss treatment options.