Getting an ADD Diagnosis As an Adult
Finding an adhd diagnosis at an adult can be challenging. NHS services are underfunded and there may be long wait times to be assessed.
If referred to a psychiatrist, they will want to confirm symptoms are present since childhood (old school reports could help) and will also inquire about co-morbidities, such as anxiety and depression. A private route can be a quicker and more thorough service.
How can I get a diagnosis?
If you're having trouble keeping up with your tasks at home or at work, losing your keys frequently, or are having trouble communicating with family members, it might be worth talking to your GP about the possibility of ADHD. While a lot of people suffering from ADHD do not have a diagnosis, it is the most common mental health condition in the UK. The good news is getting a diagnosis that is accurate and beginning treatment can help you get back on track.
If your GP agrees that you may be suffering from ADHD they will refer you to a mental health care provider. It is usually a community mental health service or a specialised neurodevelopmental service. There might be a long wait for an assessment however, you can accelerate the process by doing certain things.
You might be required to complete an assessment questionnaire prior to the ADHD assessment. The questionnaire will ask how often you experience certain symptoms and how stressful they are. The psychiatrist conducting your assessment may also require old school records or other evidence of symptoms you've experienced since childhood.
The psychiatrist will also want to be sure that your symptoms cause significant impairment in at the very least two areas of your life. This could be losing your job because of ineffective time management, having a lot of stress and conflict in your relationship, or getting into financial difficulties because of the impulse to buy.
Before the assessment an examination for medical conditions will be performed to rule out any other medical conditions which could be causing symptoms such as thyroid disorders or seizure disorder. They will also see if you have any other physical impairments, like hearing loss or a learning disabilities.
If you choose to go for an assessment in private it is recommended to confirm that your GP will accept a 'Shared Care Agreement' with the clinic you've chosen. The clinic will submit paperwork to your GP to allow you to return to your NHS provider to receive treatment. This will include medications and CBT.
Medication
A diagnosis of ADHD is a life-changing experience for adults who have suffered with the symptoms all their lives. It can help explain the reasons why they've struggled and give them hope for their future. A diagnosis can trigger many difficult feelings.
Having a private ADHD assessment with a specialist psychiatrist is the best way to receive an accurate diagnosis and ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment to alleviate your symptoms. They will use different methods to evaluate your symptoms, such as symptom checklists, behaviour rating scales and more. You will be asked to describe your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They might also request information from friends or family members.
The doctor will then use the evidence to make the diagnosis. They will look at how your ADHD symptoms affect your life and determine if they cause significant impairment. They will also determine whether you have any other mental health problems that can cause similar symptoms. If they conclude that you have ADHD, they will prescribe medication. They will also discuss with you whether you want to consider other options, such as CBT or other non-pharmacological methods.
The use of medication can be extremely beneficial for people suffering from ADHD, but it's not an answer. Managing the side effects of ADHD medications can be a challenge and it's essential to follow the advice of your doctor.
In England last year the number of adults who were prescribed medications for ADHD than children. This is an increase on previous years, and it's even more pronounced following the Covid-19 epidemic. This rise in prescriptions is mainly due the availability of drugs that were previously only available to children. The most frequently prescribed drugs are methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine.
If you want to seek a private ADHD assessment, we recommend you speak to your GP first to find out what the NHS can provide you with. You should be able to get an ADHD assessment referred by your physician, but there could be a long waiting list. If this is the case, you can print a letter of support from ADHD UK to take to your appointment. The letter explains how only a specialist can diagnose ADHD and that they cannot refuse.
CBT
A diagnosis of ADHD can change the life of an adult. Many people report that it helps them understand their differences and provides an explanation for the struggles they've had to face throughout their lives. It can be a very difficult condition to manage. People with ADHD often have difficulties in their relationships, at work, and in their studies. diagnose adhd may feel frustrated and are often misunderstood. It is helpful to seek support from others who suffer from ADHD and it is important to remember that you're not alone.
The best method to diagnose ADHD is to consult a psychiatrist or psychologist who is an expert. They are the only healthcare professionals certified to diagnose adult ADHD in the UK. You may have difficulty getting an assessment. GPs, nurses and psychologists may be unaware of the disorder and may respond with anti-ADHD prejudice. You may need to try several times before you find an expert who has the required knowledge and experience in diagnosing ADHD among adults.
During your visit your psychiatrist will assess whether your symptoms are causing serious impairment. They will ask you about your symptoms, the impact they have on your life, and whether you have a background of ADHD in your family. They will also want to rule out any conditions like thyroid issues, depression or thyroid problems which may share similar symptoms as ADHD. They may utilize rating scales and questionnaires to assess your ADHD symptoms however they won't solely rely on these to determine an assessment.
After the clinical assessment the psychiatrist will talk about the findings and determine the best treatment plan. They may recommend medication, but they might also suggest cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or other treatments for the mind. Cognitive behavioral therapy is extremely effective in treating ADHD symptoms. It is usually delivered face-toface, but can also be provided over the phone or online.
CBT teaches you to modify your behavior and thinking processes to lessen the negative effects of your ADHD symptoms. It can also teach you to cope with distressing emotions like shame or embarrassment. Additionally, CBT can teach you skills to help manage your symptoms, such as time management and self-care.
Support
If you are struggling with undiagnosed ADHD, there is help out there. Talking therapies are available, as well as medication and other treatments. There are also services that can assist you in your work or school, as well as your family life. The Access to Work scheme offers practical and financial aid to those who are unable to find work due to ADHD. The scheme is able to pay for things such as job coaching and training, and is targeted towards adults with ADHD who are in paid work. There are many charities which can assist you in finding work or return to work. The ADD UK site has a list. Pharmacy Direct can help you with the cost of your medication.
You could ask your GP to refer you to a specialist if they don't have the time or expertise to assess ADHD. This will probably involve an extensive assessment, a physical exam and interviews with people who know you. The GP will need to have specific information from you regarding your symptoms, how long they've been present and the impact they have on you. They must ensure that your symptoms aren't caused by a different condition like mental illness.
GPs and other healthcare professionals are required to be aware of the differences between adults and children's ADHD symptoms, and how those symptoms can change over years. It's a good idea to prepare for the assessment by writing down examples of your symptoms and how they've affected you, specifically in your early years. You may also note down any issues that you are having in your life. Bring details if, for example, you have difficulty organising your home or interacting well with other people.
You can attempt to obtain an NHS diagnosis for ADHD but this is often an extremely long process. NHS doctors and specialists do not have a thorough understanding of the condition and are often under resourced. The best solution is to consult a private psychiatrist. They are more likely to be experienced with ADHD in adults, and can examine you for any other mental health conditions like depression. They can also offer recommendation letters to your workplace or school if needed. Prices vary but costs typically vary from PS500 to PS1,200 in London.