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ADHD Assessment in Wales In England, Wales and Northern Ireland patients have a legal right to access NHS specialist ADHD services. This isn't always feasible due to the lack of funding of these services, as well as regional variations in the level of specialization. The doctors have preconceived notions about what someone with ADHD may appear like, and this makes it difficult to determine the cause. It is beneficial for patients to get information from someone who is familiar with their condition well. The Assessment If you think that you might be suffering from ADHD, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your GP. They'll want to know how it impacts your life and if you have any other problems. Once they have the information, they can decide whether to send you to an assessment at a commissioned adult ADHD service. You can self-refer to a psychologist and pay for an ADHD assessment. The process begins with a consultation when you are referred by your GP to undergo an NHS ADHD assessment. It can be conducted in person, via video chat or over the phone. You will be asked to bring a list of your current problems, a questionnaire containing questions about your education and mental health background and a list your current challenges. The interview typically lasts approximately one hour. You may want to prepare notes about your issues before the interview so you're able to remember 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 the challenges you face. During the interview, the specialist will assess your symptoms based on the criteria set out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). They will also consider any other issues that might be causing them. This is called a differential diagnosis, and they will consider whether other conditions such as depression or anxiety could be to blame. A private assessment usually includes a thorough clinical interview and observational tests. They might also ask you to discuss your feelings with those close to you, such as family or friends. They will also ask you about your medication, as well as any other issues you might be facing. The specialist will use this information to design an individual treatment plan that could include psychotherapy and medication. Private assessments are typically faster than an NHS assessment since you don't need to go through your GP. This approach is expensive and might not cover everything that your GP should do. Diagnosis The first thing to do if you suspect that you are suffering from ADHD is to talk to your GP. They should take you concerns seriously and request any evidence to back it up like ASRS questionnaires or school reports. It is best to bring these with you. The next step is to be directed to a medical professional to conduct an assessment. You can choose to either use the NHS or the private sector. If you decide to take advantage of the NHS the process could be lengthy and it's not unusual to have a waiting list. A private ADHD assessment is typically an easier and shorter experience. You'll be able to meet with an experienced psychiatrist who will carry out an exhaustive psychiatric examination. They will discuss your symptoms, history, developmental history, medical and drug history and family history with you. They will also consider other health conditions and determine whether these are present alongside or instead of ADHD. The psychiatrist will formulate a diagnosis once he's evaluated your symptoms. This will be based on the information you've provided them, including the symptom checklists you completed and the behaviour rating scales. They may also draw on information from other sources such as teachers, family members or friends who know you well, your doctor and your health records. When they've reached a decision, the psychiatrist will explain it to you in detail. They will outline a treatment plan that should include the option for medication. It is important to determine whether your GP will sign what's known as a 'shared care agreement' after you've received a private diagnosis and are taking medication. You can then avail support services such as therapeutic interventions and specialist coaching to help you manage your illness. Treatment If your doctor believes you have ADHD They will refer you to a specialist mental health team for a specialized assessment. This could include a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist, who will ask you to complete questionnaires regarding your symptoms and past history. You will be asked about your family background and your work history. It is important to keep in mind that medical professionals may have preconceived notions about what is expected for people suffering from ADHD and these may influence how they evaluate you. For example, they might believe that you're unruly or irresponsible if you have ADHD. After a complete psychiatric evaluation your doctor will diagnose ADHD. more.. will assess your symptoms, the amount of time you've experienced them, and how they impact your life. They will also consider any other health issues you have. If you are suffering from depression or anxiety, this could make your ADHD symptoms worse. Treatment for ADHD involves the use of therapy in conjunction with medication. Medications for ADHD are effective by boosting activity in the brain's areas which control attention and behavior. The most frequently used treatment for ADHD is methylphenidate. It is part of the group of medicines called stimulants. These drugs can be taken orally and are available through the NHS. They can improve your focus and decrease hyperactivity. Your specialist will discuss the duration of your medication, and most people are prescribed it as long as they need it. Another form of treatment 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 influence your behavior. CBT can also aid in overcoming anxiety and depression. It is essential to choose a therapist that is experienced in treating adults with ADHD. If you are diagnosed with ADHD, you could be eligible for financial assistance through Access to Work. It is a program administered by the Department for Work and Pensions that can provide practical and financial assistance to assist you in your job. You are eligible to apply for the scheme for self-employment or if you're looking for employment. You can get more information about the scheme by visiting its website. Support If you have concerns regarding ADHD, or have been told you might have it, it's important to have an evaluation by a specialist doctor. You can then determine if the symptoms are linked to ADHD, and in the event that they are, what treatments are available. The assessment process typically involves a consultation with a psychiatrist consultant but may also include questionnaires or rating scales. The psychiatrist will also note your medical history and lifestyle as well as your social and family background. This will help them understand your issues better, and determine if there are other factors contributing to your behaviour. If a psychiatrist determines that you may be suffering from ADHD the doctor will prepare a report for your GP. They may request you to fill out the DIVA 5.0 (Diagnostic Interview for Adults with ADHD) questionnaire which will provide them with more details about your issues and how they could be affecting your life. The GP will then refer 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, which gives you an 'right to seek treatment'. If your doctor refuses a referral for an ADHD assessment, you can ask another GP to refer you or contact AADD UK for help. The NHS will examine your case in depth once you have been referred to them. They will examine the evidence you have provided such as reports from your teachers or your doctor, as well as other health professionals. They will also look into whether other conditions, like anxiety or depression, might be causing your issues. The process of assessing can be lengthy and exhausting However, it's important to remember that the NHS is under strain and there are often waiting lists for appointments. If you're worried about your ability to endure the wait for an appointment, you could request your GP to sign an Shared Care Agreement, which is private services. These agreements permit you to access private assessment and treatment at a lower cost. But, make sure whether your GP will be able to accept these before you start the process.