ADHD Assessment in Wales
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, patients have the legal right to access specialist ADHD services provided by the NHS. This isn't always possible due to the underfunding of these services and regional differences in the specialization.
The doctors have preconceived notions about what someone with ADHD could appear like, and this makes it difficult to diagnose. If it is possible, it can be extremely beneficial for patients to take information with them from people who are familiar with them.
Assessment
If you suspect that you might be suffering from ADHD, the first step is to make an appointment with your GP. They will need to know what impact it has on your life and any other issues you're experiencing. Once they have all the details they need, they can decide if they wish to refer you to an adult ADHD service. You can also self-refer to a professional and pay for an ADHD assessment.
If you or a GP refers you for an NHS ADHD assessment the process is usually started with a first interview with a clinical psychologist. This can be done in person, by video conference or via phone. You will be required to bring the list of your current problems and a questionnaire pack with questions about your development as well as your education and mental health history. The interview will usually last around an hour. You might want to write notes about your difficulties before the interview so you're able to recall them. It is also possible to bring any feedback from people who know you well - such as teachers or supervisors to gain a better understanding into your challenges.
During the interview, the specialist will examine your symptoms based on the criteria laid out by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They will also examine any other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. This is referred to as a differential diagnosis. they will look into whether other issues like depression or anxiety could be the cause.
A private assessment can comprise a thorough interview, as well as tests that are observational. They may also request that you share your thoughts with those who are close to you, such as family members or friends. They will also ask about your medications and any other issues you may be facing. The doctor will use this information to design an individual treatment plan that may include medication and psychotherapy.
Private assessments are generally faster than NHS assessments because they don't require you to see your GP. However, this approach can be expensive and may not cover all the things your GP needs to do.
Diagnosis
If you think you might have ADHD the first step is to talk to your GP. They should take you concerns seriously and request any supporting evidence such as ASRS questionnaires or school reports. Bring these documents along.
The next step is to be referred to a medical professional to conduct an assessment. You can choose to go through the NHS or the private sector. If you decide to take advantage of the NHS the process could be long and it's not unusual to have a waiting list. A private ADHD assessment is usually an easier and shorter experience.
You'll be able to talk to a senior psychiatrist who will conduct a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. They will discuss with you your symptoms history as well as your medical history, developmental history, drug history and family history. They will also review other health conditions and consider whether these are present alongside or in addition to ADHD.
The psychiatrist will formulate a diagnosis once he's evaluated your symptoms. It will be based on the information you've provided them and the checklist of symptoms you completed and the behaviour rating scales. They could also draw information from other sources such as family members, teachers or other friends who know you well, your doctor and your health records.
The psychiatrist will explain their decision in detail once they have made their decision. The psychiatrist will outline a plan of care that includes medication. It's important to find out whether your GP will sign what's known as a "shared care agreement" when you've been given a private diagnosis and are taking medication. This will allow you to avail support services like specialist coaching and therapeutic interventions to manage your illness.
Treatment
If your GP believes that you suffer from ADHD, they will refer you to an expert mental health team for a specialized assessment. This will include a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist, who will require you to complete questionnaires on your symptoms and past history. You will be asked about your family background and your work history. It's important to be aware that medical professionals could have preconceived ideas regarding what's expected for people with ADHD and these may affect how they assess your condition. They might think you're naughty or irresponsible in the event that you suffer from ADHD.
After you've completed a thorough psycho-psychiatric evaluation the doctor can diagnose you as having ADHD. They will examine your symptoms as well as how long you've been suffering from them and how they affect your life. They will also look at any other health issues you might have. If you suffer from depression or anxiety, this could cause your ADHD symptoms worse.
The treatment for ADHD is an amalgamation of medication and therapy. The medications for ADHD increase activity in brain areas that control behaviour and attention. The most popular medication for ADHD is methylphenidate, which belongs to the class of medications known as stimulants. These drugs are available through the NHS and can be taken orally. They can aid in improving your concentration, as well as reduce hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour. Your doctor will inform you the duration of your medication. Many people are prescribed the medication for as long as is necessary.
Another treatment option for ADHD is cognitive treatment known as behavioural therapy (CBT), which is a type of talk therapy that helps you to understand how your beliefs, thoughts and attitudes impact your behavior. CBT can also be used to assist you in dealing with depression and anxiety. It's important to choose a therapist that is adept at treating adults with ADHD.
If you've been diagnosed of ADHD You may be eligible for financial assistance through Access to Work. This is a scheme run by the Department for Work and Pensions that can provide practical and financial assistance to assist you in your work. If you are self-employed or looking for work, you are eligible to apply for this scheme. Find out more about the scheme on its website.
Support
It's important to consult an expert if you're concerned about ADHD or have been told that you might have it. You can then determine if your symptoms are link ed to ADHD and, should they be what treatment options are available.
The assessment process is usually conducted by a psychiatrist consultant but it may also include questionnaires and rating scales. The psychiatrist will also note your medical history and lifestyle and your social and family background. This will help them know your concerns and determine if other factors are causing your behavior.
If a psychiatrist determines that you might have ADHD the doctor will prepare a report for your GP. They might ask you to complete an DIVA 5.0 (Diagnostic Interview for Adults with ADHD) questionnaire which will provide them with more details about your problems and how they might affect your life. The GP will then direct you to an ADHD clinic or adult mental health services.
The NHS in England and Wales as well as Northern Ireland, follows the NICE guidelines for ADHD that grant you a 'right to seek treatment'. This means that if your doctor is unable to refer you for an ADHD assessment, you may request another GP to refer you or contact AADD-UK for help.
After being referred, the NHS will consider your case in detail. The NHS will look at any evidence you can provide like reports from your GPs, teachers or other health professionals. They will also look into whether other conditions, like depression or anxiety, might be causing your issues.
The process of assessment can be lengthy and exhausting It's important to keep in mind that the NHS is under pressure and there are often waiting lists for appointments. If you are worried about how you'll be able to cope when waiting for an appointment you can ask your GP to establish the Shared-Care Agreement with a private provider. These agreements let you access private assessment and follow-up treatment at an affordable price. You should first ask your GP to see if they are willing to accept them.