ADHD Assessment in Wales
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, patients have the legal right to access specialist ADHD services offered by the NHS. It is not always feasible due to the inadequate funding of these services and regional variations in the level of specialization.
GPs often have preconceived ideas about what a person with ADHD appears like, and this can hinder the process of identifying. If possible, it is extremely beneficial for patients to bring information from those who are familiar with their condition.
The Assessment
To find out if you have ADHD If you suspect that you have ADHD, first make an appointment with a medical professional. They'll be interested in knowing how it impacts your life and if you are suffering from any other issues. Once they have all the data they require, they will decide if they would like to refer you to an adult ADHD service. You can also self-refer to a professional and pay for an ADHD assessment.
The process begins with a medical interview when you are referred by your GP to undergo an NHS ADHD assessment. It can be conducted in person, by video call or on the phone. You will be asked to bring a list of current problems, a questionnaire containing questions about your education and mental health background and a list of your current challenges. The interview usually lasts around an hour. It is beneficial to have notes on your difficulties prior to the interview, so that you can remember them. You could also include feedback from people you know well such as your teachers or supervisors, to gain more insight into the difficulties you face.
During the appointment, the therapist will examine your symptoms based on the criteria outlined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They will also look at any other issues that might be causing the symptoms. This is known as a differential diagnosis, and they will consider whether other conditions like depression or anxiety might be the cause.
A private assessment can include a detailed clinical interview as well as examinations by observation. They may also request opinions from those who know you well, for example friends or family members. They will also ask you about your medication, and any other issues that you may be dealing with. The specialist will use the information to develop an individualized treatment plan that may include medication and psychotherapy.
Private assessments are usually more efficient than an NHS assessment due to the fact that you don't need to go through your GP. This approach is expensive and may not cover all the things your GP should do.
Diagnosis
If you think you have ADHD The first step is to speak to your GP. They should take you concerns seriously and ask for any evidence that supports your claim like ASRS questionnaires or school reports. Bring these documents along.
The next step is to be referred to an assessment. You can choose to go through the NHS or the private sector. If you choose to take advantage of the NHS the process could be lengthy, and it's not uncommon to be on a a waiting list. A private ADHD assessment is usually simpler and less time-consuming experience.
You will meet with a psychiatrist who is a senior consultant who will conduct a thorough psychosis assessment. They will discuss your symptom history and developmental history, as well as medical and drug history, and family history with you. They will also consider other health issues and decide whether they exist alongside or in addition to ADHD.
The psychiatrist will come up with a diagnosis after he has examined your symptoms. It will be based on the information you've provided, including the checklist of symptoms you completed and the behaviour rating scales. They can also rely on other sources, such as information from teachers, family members or other acquaintances with you, your GP, and your health records.
After they have made a decision the psychiatrist will explain it to you in detail. The psychiatrist will lay out a plan of care that should include medications. If you have an individual diagnosis and are taking medication, it's crucial to inquire with your GP whether they'll sign an agreement for shared-care. You can then access support services such as therapeutic interventions and expert coaching to help manage your condition.
Treatment
If your GP confirms that you suffer from ADHD the doctor will refer you to a specialist mental health team who will conduct a specialized assessment. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires by a clinical psychiatrist or psychologist about your symptoms and previous experiences. They will also talk to you about your family and your work history. Remember that medical professionals might have preconceived beliefs about how people with ADHD behave and it can impact their assessment of you. They might consider you to be a naughty person, or irresponsible, in the event that you suffer from ADHD.
Once you've had a full psychiatric assessment, your doctor will be able to diagnose you with ADHD. They will look at your symptoms, how long you have been suffering from them, and how they affect your life. They will also take into account any other health issues you have. For instance, if suffer from depression or anxiety, these could cause your ADHD symptoms worse.
Treatment for ADHD is a combination of therapy and medication. The medications for ADHD help by increasing the activity in the brain's regions which control attention and behavior. The most popular medication for ADHD is methylphenidate, which is part of the class of medications known as stimulants. These medications are available on the NHS and can be taken orally. They can help to improve your concentration, reduce the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. Your doctor will inform you how long to take your medication. Many people are prescribed the medication for as long as necessary.
Another form of treatment for ADHD is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is a type of talk therapy that helps you to understand how your thoughts, beliefs and attitudes affect your behaviour. CBT can also aid in overcoming depression and anxiety. It's crucial to find a therapist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD, you could be eligible for financial aid through Access to Work. This scheme is run by the Department for Work and Pensions and can provide you with practical and financial aid to help you achieve success in your job. You are eligible to apply for the scheme when you are self-employed or searching for a job. Find out more about the scheme by visiting its website.
Support
It is important to speak with a specialist if you are concerned about ADHD or have been told that you might be suffering from it. This will enable you to find out whether your symptoms are linked to this condition and, if they are the case, what treatment options may be available.
this content involves a consultation with a psychiatrist consultant but may also include questionnaires or rating scales. The psychiatrist will also note your medical and lifestyle history and your family and social background. This will help them understand your difficulties better, and determine if there are any other factors driving your behavior.
If a psychiatrist determines that you might have ADHD the doctor will write a report for your GP. They might require you to complete the DIVA 5.0 (Diagnostic Interview for Adults with ADHD) questionnaire, which will give them more information about your difficulties and how they could affect your life. The GP will then direct you to an ADHD clinic or adult mental health services.
The NHS in England and Wales and Northern Ireland, follows the NICE guidelines for ADHD which grants you an 'right to treatment'. This means that if your doctor does not want to refer you to an ADHD assessment, you can request another doctor to do so or contact AADD-UK for assistance.
After being referred, the NHS will review your case in detail. They will examine any evidence you provide for example, such as reports from teachers or your doctor, as well as other health experts. They will also look at other conditions such as depression and anxiety that could cause you issues.
The process of assessment can be long and frustrating It's important to remember that the NHS is under strain and there are often waiting lists for appointments. If you're worried about how you'll cope while waiting for an appointment, request your GP to sign a Shared Care Agreement that includes an individual service. These agreements let you access private assessments and follow up treatment for the cost of a lower rate. However, you should check whether your GP will agree to these before you start the process.