ADHD develops in childhood and about two thirds of children carry the disorder into adulthood. The way the symptoms present tends to change over time and, in adults, symptoms can be more subtle. Whilst there has been a rise in diagnosed cases in recent years, particularly among women, the majority of adult sufferers are thought to be undiagnosed and therefore untreated. Common presenting symptoms of ADHD are appearing chaotic at home or at work, poor time management, erratic moods, difficulty with anger, forgetfulness and distractibility. We often see co-occurring conditions, particularly with undiagnosed ADHD, such as anxiety, depression and problems with self-esteem. ADHD can have a considerable functional impact at school, in work and in terms of relationships.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made according to the DSM-5 criteria (the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). There are three types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive / impulsive or combined type.
Assessments are carried out according to NICE guidelines which state :
The clinician should be registered with a professional body that has statutory powers. This means there are clear standards of practice to follow.
Dr Kim Whitaker is registered with the HCPC and the BPS.
There must be a Psychologist, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist as part of a diagnostic team. They should have previous training and experience working with children and young people.
Dr Whitaker has worked across Child and Adolescent and Adult services within her career in the NHS and since entering private practice.
Information should be obtained from multiple sources including interview and observational data. Standardised structured assessment tools such as the ACE and ACE+ should be used.
Dr Whitaker uses the ACE / ACE + in conjunction with clinical interviews and psychometrics (questionnaires).
Informants
Dr Whitaker asks to speak with a parent who can report on childhood symptoms. If this is not possible then input from another family member, partner, employer or good friend is required. Wherever possible, clinical interviews should be supplemented with collateral information, such as reports from school or occupational appraisals/performance reviews. Dr Whitaker seeks other reports for review and requests information from school. She will make contact with other involved professionals where warranted (after discussing this with the client first).