Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a serious health condition that can significantly impact an individual’s day-to-day activities, including their relationships, academic or occupational performance, and overall quality of life. Getting a proper diagnosis is a sure way to confirm the presence of ADHD and determine the best treatment plans to manage it. Whether you’re seeking answers for yourself or a loved one, this guide will shed light on everything you need to know about the condition: from its symptoms, causes, and the critical journey towards diagnosis in the UK to the available treatment options.
What Is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly known as ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that manifests early in childhood and often lasts throughout a person’s life. It is often characterized by a persistent and often uncontrollable pattern of experiencing difficulty paying attention, controlling impulsivity, and hyperactivity – factors which can significantly impact different aspects of a patient’s life.
Children with this condition typically have a hard time getting along with others, often talk too much, and may also find it difficult to control impulsive behaviors [1]. On the other hand, adults typically experience restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty maintaining relationships.
ADHD is a complex disorder, and it can affect people differently. Diagnosing the condition is a sure way to determine the root cause and specific effects it has on a patient, and determine the best treatment option. Detecting this disorder on time and seeking treatment as soon as possible will go a long way in preventing terrible outcomes and improving patients’ overall quality of life.
Symptoms and Causes of ADHD
There are several potential ADHD symptoms, and they may vary from individual to individual based on the type being experienced. The 3 main types of ADHD include inattentive type, hyperactive-impulsive type, and combination type [2]. Let’s take a look at the symptoms associated with each of the types of ADHD.
Inattention Type
Individuals with ADHD who show patterns of inattention may experience:
- Difficulty sustaining attention: People with ADHD typically struggle to stay focused on activities or tasks at hand – a factor that makes them prone to making careless mistakes. This is one of the most common symptoms of the condition;
- Easy distraction: ADHD patients often become distracted by irrelevant stimuli while working on an important task. For example, they could abandon their homework simply because they heard a bird chirping outside or a notification on their phones. This often results in difficulties in completing tasks they set out to do;
- Forgetfulness: People with ADHD often forget daily activities, appointments, anniversaries, birthdays of friends and family, or obligations, no matter how hard they try to memorize them;
- Organization challenges: People with ADHD frequently find it difficult to manage time and keep things organized. They often find themselves going late even after putting in extra effort to be on time;
- Subconscious avoidance of mentally demanding tasks: Because people with ADHD usually find tasks that require extended concentration challenging, they often shy away from them, sometimes without even knowing it.
Hyperactive-Impulse Type
ADHD patients who show a pattern of hyperactivity may experience the following:
- Excessive restlessness: Fidgeting, restlessness, and an inability to stay seated are some of the most common signs of hyperactivity;
- Difficulty waiting turns: People with ADHD typically struggle to exercise patience, whether it’s waiting in line to use an ATM or to see a doctor. They often become fidgety and restless, which usually leads to impulsive behavior;
- Impulsivity: Impulsive behavior typically ranges from interrupting others while they’re speaking, talking uncontrollably, blurting out answers, and generally acting without first considering the consequences;
- Risk-taking: People with ADHD typically engage in risky behaviors or take huge risks without fully thinking about the potential dangers and consequences.
Combination Type
Individuals with Combined Type ADHD typically experience symptoms associated with both inattention and hyperactive-impulse type ADHD. At this point, it is worth noting that two people may experience these symptoms in different ways, as everyone is unique. Also, it is common for symptoms to change over time, meaning that the type of ADHD an individual has may change too, ultimately requiring a new form of treatment.
Causes of ADHD
Contrary to popular belief, watching too much TV, eating too much sugar, and not reading as much during childhood do not lead to ADHD. Researchers do not fully understand the causes of ADHD. However, they believe it could be a result of the combined effects of neurological, genetic, and environmental factors. Some of the other factors researchers suspect may be responsible for the neurodevelopmental disorder include:
- brain injury;
- low birth weight or premature birth;
- smoking or excessive consumption of alcohol during pregnancy;
- exposure to toxins such as lead while in the womb or during childhood.
Genetics is another factor commonly believed to have a hand in ADHD. Researchers suggest that genes inherited from parents may be significant factors, as the condition has been found to often run in families [3]. A lot about the causes of childhood and adult ADHD is still lacking, and more studies need to be conducted. However, understanding the known symptoms and potential causes is a great first step towards getting a diagnosis and the best treatment.
Diagnosis of ADHD in the UK
Experiencing one or more of the symptoms we mentioned earlier does not expressly mean you or a loved one has ADHD. Sometimes, people without it occasionally experience some of them. This is why proper diagnosis is important. If you’ve been wondering how to get an ADHD diagnosis in the UK, know that it doesn’t take a lot. It is typically done after you meet certain criteria outlined in the DSM-5 and if the symptoms you are experiencing significantly impact your day-to-day activities and functioning.
The DSM-5 is an acronym for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. It is a guidebook manual doctors and therapists refer to when diagnosing different mental health problems. It outlines symptoms and other boxes that, if checked, inform healthcare providers of what the likely disorder is.
What’s Included in the Diagnosis?
ADHD assessment often includes the following [3]:
- clinical interviews/physical examination: Healthcare professionals often gather information from parents, teachers, or spouses to understand how the symptoms may be impacting your life. They are also likely to conduct a series of interviews with the individual looking to be diagnosed;
- medical and developmental history: To ensure the symptoms being experienced are not caused by other underlying health conditions, healthcare professionals typically source information about the person’s medical and developmental history;
- rating scales and questionnaires: In some cases, healthcare professionals may use rate scales and questionnaires to assess ADHD symptoms and how they impact day-to-day activities. This gives them an insight into the severity of the symptoms and what needs to be done to alleviate them;
- behavioral observations: In some cases, especially in those involving children, healthcare providers may need to observe the patient in different settings, including schools, playgrounds, and at home.
After a diagnosis is concluded and an individual is confirmed to have ADHD, a doctor will walk them through the available treatment options and may recommend one that fits their specific needs.
Who Can Assess ADHD in the UK? ADHD Diagnosis Pathways
While considering where to go for ADHD diagnosis, it is important to note that not all doctors are qualified to diagnose and/or treat the condition. The only people who can diagnose ADHD in the UK include the following healthcare professionals [4][5]:
Psychiatrists: These are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They have clearance to diagnose and recommend treatment for various mental health disorders, including ADHD.
Specialist ADHD Nurses: These are qualified nurses who have taken special courses and achieved accreditation to care for ADHD patients. They typically work alongside other healthcare professionals to provide the best care and advice for both people living with the condition as well as their family members.
Psychologists: These are mental health professionals trained to understand human behavior and the workings of the mind. They can access individuals with ADHD; however, they are not qualified to prescribe medication.
At this point, it is worth noting that there are multiple diagnosis pathways for ADHD assessment. This includes NHS ADHD assessment, NHS Assessment via ‘Right to Choose,’ and assessment from private providers. Each of these routes has its pros and cons, and we’ll be shedding light on them in the following sections.
NHS ADHD Assessment
The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK offers ADHD via Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). To get an assessment from this body, you would need to talk to your GP about fears of having ADHD. If your GP feels your concern is valid, they’ll screen you. The screening process involves filling out a form called “ASRS form,” which contains questions about ADHD-related symptoms. Once you’re done, the GP will put you on the NHS waiting list for assessment.
NHS Assessment via ‘Right to Choose’
The NHS now offers a ‘Right to Choose’ option for individuals based in the UK. This simply means if you reside in the UK, you can now choose your healthcare provider, with private providers being a part of the option. However, this is only available for certain treatments and assessments, of which ADHD happens to be a part of. Consequently, if you feel the waiting time for your ADHD NHS diagnosis is too long, you can simply choose another provider.
Private ADHD Diagnosis
Compared to ADHD NHS tests and diagnosis, those provided by private organizations are typically much faster. However, the downside of going private is that it can be quite expensive, as you’ll need to pay for follow-up appointments and treatments. Unless you can’t stand the long wait time or have other important reasons, the NHS ‘Right to Choose” pathway may be best.
In some cases, it is possible to get a shared care agreement with your GP for medication. The idea is to skip the usually long NHS waitlist by getting a diagnosis from a private establishment, and then get medications from your GP. However, it is worth noting that some GPs reject private diagnoses, so be sure to check with them before going for it.
Is ADHD Difficult to Diagnose as an Adult?
Yes, ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in adults. This is mainly because the symptoms are often similar to those caused by several other medical conditions, including mood disorders or anxiety. The fact that many adults living with ADHD typically have one or more mental health problems, such as depression, among others, makes it more difficult to pinpoint [6]. Another major factor that makes the diagnosis challenging is that adults typically develop coping mechanisms over the years, making their symptoms less evident.
However, skilled healthcare providers with a wealth of experience treating and caring for adults with ADHD can still make an accurate diagnosis by studying the patient’s medical history, the apparent symptoms, and how it affects their day-to-day life.
The Importance of Diagnosing ADHD
There are several reasons why the importance of diagnosing ADHD can’t be overemphasized. However, some of the most important ones include:
- access to treatment: Identifying the symptoms and the exact type of ADHD being experienced helps doctors recommend the best treatment options that are likely to work safely and effectively;
- understanding coping: Diagnosis helps patients and their loved ones understand the condition and how it affects their lives, and this helps reduce any feeling of self-blame, guilt, or frustration. For example, friends and family may understand that you’re forgetting their birthdays or an anniversary was not completely within your control;
- academic and occupational support: Diagnosis can enable academic institutions and workplaces to make special preparations or accommodations, which may, in turn, improve your chances of success.
What’s more, getting diagnosed allows for proper management of ADHD, which can ultimately lead to improved relationships, a higher quality of life, and enhanced overall well-being.
ADHD Treatment Options: Therapy, Medication, and Alternative Methods
There are several treatment options available for ADHD, and a doctor may recommend one based on the preference or specific needs of the patient. The most common treatment options include:
Therapy
Therapy proves effective in treating children, teenagers, and adults with ADHD, including other conditions such as anxiety disorders. Some of the therapies commonly used include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, social skills training, and parent training/education programs. Each of these therapies provides better outcomes in certain situations, such as improving organization skills, time management, communication, and relationships, among others, and a healthcare professional is in the best position to recommend one for you.
Medication
This is one of the most common and easily accessible forms of ADHD treatment. It involves the use of non-stimulant medications like amoxetine and guanfacine, stimulant medications such as methylphenidate and modafinil, and amphetamine-based drugs like lisdexamfetamine, dexamfetamine, etc.
However, many people with ADHD often turn to modafinil because it offers a combination of benefits from both the stimulant-type and non-stimulant-type medications. Unlike non-stimulant meds and stimulant-type meds, modafinil has a rapid onset of effects and allows the risk of causing side effects or dependence, respectively. While it is possible to buy modafinil online in the UK, it is essential to source it from a trusted vendor and seek advice from a healthcare professional before starting treatment with it.
Alternative Methods
Good lifestyle practices may help some individuals with ADHD reduce stress, increase attention, and reduce hyperactivity. Some of these practices worth considering include making better dietary decisions, such as cutting sugar intake, incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, etc.; exercising, and engaging in mental exercises such as meditation.
It is advisable to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine a treatment option that best suits your personal preference and unique needs.
Resume
ADHD is a complex disorder that can affect day-to-day activities and ultimately impact the overall quality of one’s life. While it can often be difficult to diagnose because most of its symptoms match those caused by other health conditions, skillful healthcare professionals can still help to accurately diagnose it in the UK. Diagnosis options are available via the NHS and private providers; however, getting it via the NHS is usually cheaper, but the waiting time for assessment is usually longer.
Getting a proper and timely diagnosis will ensure you get the best treatment option from the range of available options. Remember to consult your doctor before starting any treatment.
References
- What is ADHD? Retrieved: September 22, 2023. Cdc.gov.
- Types of ADHD: Inattentive, Hyperactive-Impulsive, and More. Written by Erica Roth and Kerry Weiss, Medically reviewed by Marc S. Lener, MD. Retrieved: September 22, 2023. Healthline.com.
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Causes. Retrieved: September 22, 2023. Nhs.uk.
- Getting an ADHD Assessment – ADHD Aware. Retrieved: September 22, 2023. Adhdaware.org.uk.
- Diagnosis – ADHDadultUK | The UK’s leading adult ADHD CHARITY. Retrieved: September 22, 2023. Adhdadult.uk
- Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Retrieved: September 22, 2023. Mayoclinic.org.
The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.