Understanding ADHD in Adults: A Comprehensive Guide

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition that affects many individuals, both children and adults. While there’s a lot of information available about ADHD, the process of getting diagnosed and understanding the condition can be overwhelming. The AADD-UK, a site dedicated to adults with ADHD, provides a comprehensive FAQ section that sheds light on many concerns related to ADHD in adults.

1. How to Get a Referral for ADHD Assessment?
If you suspect you may have ADHD, schedule a 10-minute appointment with your GP. Present them with a list of symptoms and the patient’s version of the NICE guidelines. Ensure to follow up with your GP in a week to check on the referral status.

2. Finding an ADHD Specialist
While there are limited adult ADHD specialists in the UK, AADD-UK provides a list of specialists. If your area isn’t listed, consider asking your GP for an out-of-area referral.

3. What if the GP Refuses a Referral?
If your GP declines to provide a referral, consider seeing a different GP. Remember, only a trained and qualified adult ADHD specialist can assess patients for ADHD.

4. Preparing for an ADHD Specialist Appointment
Bring along school reports, exam reports, and comments from family and friends. A list of symptoms with relevant ones highlighted can also be beneficial.

5. Can University Students or Degree Holders have ADHD?
Absolutely. ADHD affects individuals differently. Being academically successful doesn’t negate the possibility of having ADHD.

6. Excelling in School and ADHD
Doing well in school doesn’t mean you don’t have ADHD. Many individuals with ADHD work harder than their peers to achieve academic success.

7. Taking ADHD Medications Abroad
Some ADHD medications are controlled drugs. Ensure to check regulations if you’re traveling abroad and consider applying for a personal export license if necessary.

8. Understanding Controlled Drugs
Controlled drugs are medications that fall under the Misuse of Drugs Act due to their potential for abuse. Some ADHD medications, like Methylphenidate and Dexedrine, are categorized as Class B drugs.

9. No ADHD Specialist in Your Area?
If there isn’t an ADHD specialist in your area, and your CCG refuses an out-of-area referral, consider appealing their decision. Enlist the help of ICAS or your local MP.

10. Diagnosed with ADHD as a Child?
If you were diagnosed with ADHD as a child and continue to face challenges as an adult, your local NHS trust has a duty to provide treatment.

11. Meeting Someone from AADD-UK
Currently, AADD-UK doesn’t offer in-person guidance due to funding constraints. However, they encourage joining support groups and participating in their online forum.

12. The ADHD Assessment Process
The assessment includes a general psychiatric evaluation, a specific ADHD diagnostic interview, and possibly a neuropsychological assessment.

13. Neuropsychological Assessment Explained
This assessment comprises various tests to evaluate cognitive skills like memory, concentration, language, interpretation, and problem-solving abilities.

14. Post ADHD Diagnosis
After diagnosis, you should receive a treatment plan, assessment report, support for family/carers, and regular follow-up monitoring.

15. ADD vs. ADHD
The term ADD has been replaced by ADHD, which includes Combined Type, Predominantly Inattentive Type, and the Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Type.

16. Seeking Participants for ADHD Research
AADD-UK supports research beneficial to people with ADHD. Researchers can recruit participants by posting on their forum, adhering to specific criteria.

17. ADHD Diagnosis and Driving
If diagnosed with ADHD, you must notify the DVLA. AADD-UK provides a detailed explanation of the process in their “Living with ADHD” section.

Conclusion
Understanding ADHD in adults requires comprehensive knowledge and guidance. AADD-UK offers invaluable resources and support for adults navigating ADHD. For more information or to discuss any concerns, consider joining the AADD-UK forum.