ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are making a profit from patients who feel disappointed by the stifling NHS waiting lists. But a recent BBC Panorama investigation found that some clinics are handing out unreliable diagnoses through video calls.
Usually, a person will be given an application form to fill out by themselves, but also by a close family member or partner. It must be returned prior to when an appointment is scheduled.
Symptoms
If you are constantly losing your keys, find it difficult to finish tasks at work or are constantly interrupted by friends or family members, it could be an indication of ADHD. This condition can affect up to 8.4% children and 2.5% adults. It can have a significant impact on your personal and professional lives. Many people don't realize that their symptoms are caused by ADHD and don't seek treatment because they don't know what to do. They might try to manage their own symptoms but this can be frustrating.
There is no physical or medical test for ADHD however a certified mental health care professional will make use of information from several sources to establish an assessment, which may include the symptom checklists and the standardized behaviour scales for rating, as well an extensive background of the person's previous and present performance, as well as information from people who are familiar with their condition. Depending on the severity and nature of the person's issue, additional tests for learning disabilities, psychological, or neuropsychological testing may be carried out.
Certain people suffering from ADHD may also suffer from co-occurring illnesses, like anxiety and depression, so it's important for a healthcare professional to rule these out. A healthcare professional will check for other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. For instance, a thyroid disorder or weight gain.
Doctors are not able to diagnose ADHD and are unable to refer you to a specialist. They can refer you to a Priory hospital or wellbeing center for an assessment. The assessment will take place in a clinic and you, your partner, parents or any other relatives to you will be asked to fill out questionnaires. These questionnaires are based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as defined in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5).
The assessment process is carried out by an experienced psychologist or psychiatrist who specialises in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will take a thorough history, make detailed notes and discuss your behaviour with you in different situations. This will include at work, at school and at home. You will be asked to evaluate your ADHD symptoms throughout the time of a week, and complete tests such as an assessment of cognitive function.
Diagnosis
If you believe that you or someone you know suffers from ADHD the first step is to visit your GP. They can refer you to a private doctor, such as psychiatrist or psychologist who is trained to diagnose adults with ADHD. You may also contact the experts directly to schedule an assessment. Prior to your appointment with the doctor you'll have to fill in an online questionnaire regarding the symptoms you've been experiencing. You will also be asked to provide details regarding your medical past, including any prior treatment you've received.
It is crucial that you are honest with your clinician about your symptoms, as he or she will need an entire history to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will examine your medical history of your family and your medical history, and current symptoms. They will then use this information to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and how severe your symptoms are. They will also determine if other mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, might be causing your symptoms.
Based on the circumstances depending on your situation, you may require additional neuropsychological, psychological, or learning disabilities testing. This will help rule out other causes of the symptoms of ADHD. For example, some people with ADHD might also suffer from other disabilities, such as autism or learning disabilities, which can have similar symptoms to ADHD. Contacting your insurance provider about professionals qualified to diagnose ADHD in adults is a good idea. You may also contact a local group of adults with ADHD to inquire about referrals.
Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD are relieved to recognize the reasons they've struggled in their lives. However it can be a challenge to deal with more info the feelings that come with a diagnosis. It is important to get a proper diagnosis from a qualified clinician to take the next steps in managing your ADHD and making the most of your life.
Treatment
Finding a doctor who has experience treating adults with ADHD is the first step in getting a proper diagnosis. This could be a therapist, psychiatrist or psychologist with experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. Alternatively, you could request your family physician to refer you to an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.
A private assessment of ADHD differs from a typical psychiatric consultation because it is an interview with a plan to examine your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. Come prepared to discuss your struggles with attention and hyperactivity at work, in relationships and hobbies, as well as in school. You should also keep a record of your symptoms and how they have impacted your life over time, along with any other mental health issues that you've faced.
If the healthcare professional who is conducting your evaluation believes that you may have ADHD, they will assess your case against the DSM V criteria for ADHD. They will ask you questions and use the symptoms you've listed to determine if there are six characteristics (symptoms). These traits should be present for at least one year.
The healthcare professional will prepare an assessment report and discuss the findings of your test to you. If they find that you don't have ADHD They will explain the reasons why they believe that you do not meet the criteria and suggest a different diagnosis that could better explain your problems.
It is essential to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor after you have a diagnosis. They'll recommend medication and therapy that can assist you in managing your symptoms. There are a variety of treatments that are specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These include cognitive-behavioral (CBT) acceptance commitment therapy and mindfulness.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief, especially for adults. It could explain why you struggled in the previous, which can be liberating and empower. It's important to remember that a lot of adults suffer from self-stigma after being diagnosed. Individuals with these issues can benefit from therapy, especially narrative therapy, to learn how to tell their story in a different way and to change how they perceive themselves.
Support
Online services that permit people to receive a quick ADHD diagnosis by phone or online questionnaire have been gaining popularity as mental health issues are becoming less stigmatized. These services can save the time needed to locate an acupuncturist and wait for an assessment, which in turn cuts the cost of getting treatment. These services are also faster and more user-friendly than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which may feel like a maze.
However, they aren't without criticism. In the last few months, there have been numerous stories and documentaries claiming private clinics of ignoring ADHD. One such documentary, made by BBC's Panorama, was named The ADHD Scandal. The title was later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Exposed, however, the original premise was the same: people who seek a private ADHD diagnosis are being taken advantage of.
The field of psychiatry is complex and it's not unusual to see people suffer from symptoms that are not actually caused by ADHD. That's why it's important to ensure you're diagnosed by a psychiatrist who specialises in adult ADHD and has a thorough understanding of how it manifests in adults. A complete assessment involves collecting data from your relatives, friends and school reports. It could also include an assessment form prior to your visit. Your doctor will then use the results to determine if you suffer from ADHD and develop a comprehensive treatment plan that could include psychotherapy or medication.
It is also advisable to check with your GP to determine if they are willing to sign a shared-care agreement with you as well as your psychologist prior to requesting the private ADHD diagnosis. This means you'll only need to pay the NHS prescription cost for your medication. Some GPs will refuse to do this, so it's best to confirm this before spending money on an assessment.
A supportive system in place can help you control the symptoms of ADHD and improve your quality of life. Visit our ADHD treatment page for more details on how we can help. You can also schedule a free, confidential phone consultation with our therapists to see whether we're the best person for you.