ADHD Diagnosis - Holding Private Clinics to Account
BBC Panorama's investigation into private clinics that diagnose ADHD is making them accountable. It is claimed that private clinics are over-diagnosing ADHD.
Many people are seeking a private diagnosis of ADHD because they feel they cannot wait for an NHS referral. It can take months to be referred by your GP.
Signs and symptoms
There are a variety of treatment options for those suffering from ADHD symptoms that impact your personal and professional life. This includes psychotherapy or medication. Understanding your symptoms and how they impact your life can help you to choose the right treatment.
The most prominent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD are hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. Although we all demonstrate certain of these behaviors at times, those with ADHD experience them more frequently than other people and more frequently. These symptoms cause significant problems in their lives and may impact on relationships and work performance as well as general wellbeing.
ADHD can cause problems with concentration and listen to instructions. It can cause problems in the classroom and at home and may cause people to feel overwhelmed and annoyed. It can also cause people to feel restless and fidgety and can cause difficulty in organising and planning tasks. It can lead to problems with appointments and responsibilities. It can also lead to forgetting important things like money, keys or mobile phones.
ADHD symptoms can cause problems with eating and sleep, which can negatively impact overall well-being and health. If not managed, ADHD can be linked to depression and anxiety.
There is no cure for ADHD however treatment can improve your symptoms and lessen the impact they have on your daily life. You'll need to discuss your symptoms with a psychiatrist or other qualified healthcare professional. You will be asked to describe the symptoms and how they impact your daily life, including your work, family and social life. The doctor will then recommend the best treatment plan for you.
You may be recommended to an adult ADHD specialist by your GP or you can contact Priory yourself and request an assessment. If you have been diagnosed with adult ADHD it is possible to create a shared-care agreement with your GP to pay only NHS prescription costs. This is possible at an additional cost.
Diagnosis
Getting diagnosed with ADHD is an important first step in finding the best treatment for your symptoms. Based on the specific symptoms you experience and how they impact your life, treatment may vary from medication to cognitive therapy to coaching. The best approach is to get a thorough evaluation and diagnoses by an adult ADHD specialist. If your doctor refuses to provide you with a referral, request the referral of a private health clinic like Priory or another well-known hospital that is specialized in adult ADHD assessments. They are experts in determining ADHD and will provide you with a clear diagnosis within a few weeks.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults is more difficult than diagnosing children due to the symptom guidelines used by psychologists are focused on identifying issues in kids. The specialist will also conduct a clinical examination and use questionnaires. Some doctors may even conduct a brain scan in order to determine if your brain is functioning as it should.
A complete assessment of ADHD will also include a mental health screening as around 80 percent of people who suffer from ADHD also have another condition such as autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To be properly assessed, you should always see a psychiatrist who is an expert or therapist who specializes in mental health.
If you're unsure of who to contact for an evaluation or diagnosis, ask your GP or call your insurance company. They will be able to tell you which professionals have expertise in diagnosing adult ADHD and are part of the network. Alternately, you could contact your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness or CHADD to find recommendations for specialists in your area. Ask people who attend an ADHD support group if they can recommend a professional.
A complete ADHD assessment will typically take 1.5 hours to perform and includes an online test, a medical interview, and the completion of various validated assessments. The outcome of the test is a comprehensive report that your specialist will send to your GP or a letter to third parties.
Medication
If your symptoms of ADHD are affect your everyday life or relationships, you should seek professional help. The first step is to visit your GP (family doctor) and request that they refer you for an assessment. The GP will evaluate your symptoms and review documents such as school reports. They will only refer you to specialists if they feel that you meet the criteria for a diagnosis.
Once you are directed to a specialist, you should make an appointment with them. The doctor will review your symptoms, medical history and family history. They will also assess your health and life style. They may suggest medications to manage your symptoms. They will talk about the benefits and risks of the medication and decide which is the best option for you.
Medications to treat ADHD are referred to as stimulants. The most commonly used medication is methylphenidate. It works by increasing activity in the brain and can be prescribed as tablets that release immediately which are taken 2 or 3 times a day or as modified release tablets which are taken once a day and released throughout the click here day. Methylphenidate can be used in teens, adults and children. Your specialist will discuss with you the length of time you'll need to take the medication.
Unfortunately, certain media coverage of private ADHD assessments and treatment can create the impression that these clinics are'shady'. One such example is the BBC Panorama documentary that was originally titled The ADHD Scandal, which was later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Explicit.
There is no doubt that the NHS struggles to cope with demands for ADHD assessments and treatment. However, this should not hinder the fact that those who wish to be diagnosed and treated for ADHD should be able to access high-quality healthcare. Even if a specialist charges for their services, does not mean that they can disregard evidence-based practices or deviate from the rules. They must still follow the guidelines laid out by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. This is true for psychiatrists, GPs and private ADHD specialists.
Treatment
The right diagnosis for ADHD is an essential step in managing your symptoms. Your GP can refer you to a private speciality clinic like an Priory hospital or wellness center for an assessment. The clinic will provide you with an entire report of the results. In addition, they will help you manage your symptoms to help you live a more satisfying life and improve your overall health.
The first step in the process is a questionnaire. It usually asks you to rate your behave in different situations. For example at work, school or with your friends. You may also be asked to bring a family member with you for support. Your therapist will use the information you provide to create the treatment plan tailored to your needs. They will examine your symptoms, their impact on different contexts, and your current challenges in life. They will also recommend any other therapies that could be beneficial, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
After you've completed an assessment, your doctor will prescribe medications if required. They'll consider your symptoms, age, and other aspects. They'll also look at whether other conditions like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder could be contributing to your ADHD symptoms.
A thorough examination is necessary to make an accurate ADHD diagnosis, and this includes taking a medical history, conducting physical and psychological tests and analyzing your responses to questions. The doctor will ask about any other health problems you have had and will look for other possible causes of your symptoms, such as thyroid issues or depression.
In some cases the psychiatrist or GP will decide that you don't meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis. It could be because the symptoms are too broad, or that an alternative condition is better suited to explain your symptoms. If you're not satisfied with the outcome, you can request an additional opinion from a different psychiatrist or GP.
Your psychologist will prescribe medication and assist you develop strategies to cope with the difficulties of living with ADHD. They'll offer advice on how you can manage your issues at school, at home and at work. They'll also offer you assistance and guidance in developing a confidence in yourself, so that you can conquer the effects of your symptoms.