ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are capitalising on patients who feel let down by logjammed NHS waiting lists. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that certain clinics were providing unreliable diagnoses over video calls.
A questionnaire will be given to the person and they can also have an adult family member or partner complete the questionnaire. It is necessary to return the form prior to an appointment can be made.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD may be the reason behind your frequent loss of concentration, inability to complete tasks at work, or be interrupted by your family or friends. This condition can affect up to 8.4% children and 2.5 percent adults. It can have a significant impact on your personal and professional lives. But, many don't know their symptoms are caused by ADHD and don't seek help because they don't know what to do. Many times, they'll attempt to manage themselves but this can be difficult and may not always be successful.
There is no medical or physical test for ADHD however a certified mental health care specialist will draw information from multiple sources to determine an assessment, which may include symptom checklists and standardized behaviour rating scales, as well an extensive history of the person's past and present performance, as well as information from others who are familiar with them. Depending on the nature of the person's issues and the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological, psychological or testing for learning disabilities could be conducted.
Certain people suffering from ADHD may also suffer from co-occurring disorders, like depression and anxiety It is therefore essential for a doctor to rule them out. A healthcare professional will look for any other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms. For example thyroid issues or weight increase.
GPs do not diagnose ADHD and cannot refer you to a specialist. They may refer you to an Priory hospital or a wellbeing centre to conduct an assessment. The assessment will take place in a clinical environment and you, your partner, parents or any other relatives to you will fill out questionnaires. These questionnaires are based upon the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, as laid out by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5th Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
A psychologist or psychiatrist who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD will carry out the assessment. They will carry out an extensive background, make detailed notes and discuss your behaviour in different situations with you. This will include at work, at school, and at home. You will be asked to assess your ADHD symptoms throughout the time of a week, and take tests, such as a cognitive function test.
Diagnosis
You should first talk to your GP when you suspect you or someone else you know may have ADHD. They might be able refer you to an individual specialist, such as psychologist or psychiatrist who is skilled in diagnosing adults who suffer from ADHD. You can also contact experts directly to set up an appointment. Before you can make an appointment with the clinician, you will need to fill in an online questionnaire regarding the symptoms that you have been experiencing. You will be asked to provide details regarding your mental health background, including any previous treatment you've received.
It is crucial to be forthcoming about your issues with the doctor, since you will need to give a full history for an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will review your personal, family medical history and psychiatric history and also your current symptoms and concerns. They will then analyze this information to determine if you have ADHD and how severe your symptoms are. They will also consider whether other mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, might be causing your symptoms.
Based on your specific situation depending on your situation, you may require additional neuropsychological, psychological, or learning disabilities testing. This can help identify other conditions that can cause ADHD symptoms. For instance, some people who suffer from ADHD may also be suffering from other learning disabilities or autism, which can have similar symptoms as ADHD. It's also a good idea to ask your insurance provider for recommendations on specialists who are able to identify adults suffering from ADHD. You can also contact a local support group for people who suffer from ADHD and request recommendations.
Many people who are diagnosed with ADHD find that it is a relief to finally have an explanation for why they've been struggling throughout their lives. It can be difficult to deal the emotions that come with a diagnosis. It is essential to receive a correct diagnosis from a doctor who is experienced in treating ADHD. This will allow you to move on toward managing your ADHD.
Treatment
The first step in getting a diagnosis is to find a healthcare professional who is skilled in dealing with adults suffering from ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, therapist or psychologist with experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. You can also ask your family doctor to refer you to a nurse practitioner or an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment of ADHD differs slightly from a typical psychiatric consultation because it is an interview with a plan to evaluate your symptoms and how they impact your everyday life. Prepare to discuss your struggles with attention and hyperactivity in your relationships, at work, hobbies, and school. You will be required to bring a list of symptoms and how they have affected your life throughout the years as well as any other mental health issues you might have experienced.
If the healthcare professional conducting your assessment believes you may have ADHD the doctor will determine your ADHD based on the DSM V criteria. They will ask you questions and analyze the information you've provided to determine if there are six traits (symptoms). These traits should have been present for a minimum of a year.
The healthcare professional will write an account, and then discuss the findings of your assessment to you. If they determine that you do not meet the criteria for ADHD, they will explain the reason and suggest a new diagnosis that may better explain your issues.
It is important to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor after you've been diagnosed. They will be able to suggest therapy and medication that can aid in managing your symptoms. There are many therapies specifically designed for adults who have ADHD. These include cognitive-behavioral (CBT) acceptance commitment therapy, and mindfulness.
It can be a huge relief to be diagnosed of ADHD especially as an adult. It could be that it explains a lot about why you have been struggling in the past and that can be empowering and freeing. But, it's equally important to be aware that many adults struggle with self-esteem issues when they are diagnosed. Therapy, particularly narrative therapy, can be helpful for these individuals to learn to tell their own stories differently and change the ways they perceive themselves.
Support
Online services that allow individuals to receive a fast ADHD diagnosis by phone call or online survey have emerged as mental health problems are becoming less stigmatised. These services can cut down on the time required to locate a psychiatrist and wait for an assessment which, in turn, reduces the cost of treatment. They also have the advantage of being faster and simpler than navigating the NHS referral and assessment procedure, which may feel like an endless maze.
However, they are not without criticism. In recent months, there have been numerous stories and documentaries claiming private clinics of ignoring ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of a BBC Panorama documentary. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, however the original concept remains the same. Patients seeking private ADHD diagnoses are abused.
The field of psychiatry is a complicated field and it is not uncommon for people with ADHD to experience symptoms that aren't ADHD. It's crucial to find a psychiatrist who has an understanding of the adult ADHD and who is a specialist in the field of diagnosis. A complete assessment involves collecting information from your relatives, friends and school reports. It could also comprise an assessment form that you fill out prior to the time. Your doctor will then use the results to determine if you have ADHD and formulate a holistic treatment plan that could include medication or psychotherapy.
You should also consult your GP to determine whether they're willing to sign a shared care agreement with you and your psychologist before seeking an individual ADHD diagnosis. You'll only need to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. Some GPs will refuse to do this It's a good idea to check before you start spending money on an assessment.
A good support system can assist you in managing ADHD symptoms and improve your quality of life. Visit our ADHD treatment page to learn more about how we can help. You more info can also schedule a confidential, free phone consultation with one of our therapists to determine if we're a good choice for your needs.