ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are capitalising on patients who feel disappointed due to the long NHS waiting lists. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some clinics were giving unreliable diagnoses over video calls.
Usually, a person will be given an assessment questionnaire to complete by themselves and also by someone close to them, such as a family member or partner. It is essential to complete this form before an appointment can be scheduled.
Symptoms
ADHD may be the reason behind your frequent key loss and inability to finish tasks at work, or be interrupted by family or friends. This condition is common and affects up to 8.4% of children and 2.5 percent of adults and can have a major impact on personal and professional life. Many people are unaware that their symptoms result from ADHD and they aren't seeking treatment because they don't know how to do. Often they'll try to self-manage but this can be a struggle and may not always be successful.
There is no physical or medical test for ADHD however a certified mental health specialist will draw information from a variety of sources to establish an assessment, which may include the symptom checklists and the standardized behaviour scales for rating, as well as a complete history of the person's past and present performance, as well as information from people who know them well. Depending on the nature of the individual's issues further neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities tests may be conducted.
It is essential that a medical professional rule out co-occurring conditions such as depression and anxiety in a few people suffering from ADHD. A healthcare professional will test for any other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. For instance thyroid issues or weight increase.
GPs do not diagnose ADHD and are unable to refer you to an expert. They can refer you to a Priory hospital, or a wellbeing centre to conduct an assessment. If you visit a private clinic, the assessment will be conducted in a clinic and involves filling out questionnaires with you, your parents or partner and others who know you well. These questionnaires are based upon the diagnostic criteria for ADHD that are laid out by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5th Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
A psychiatrist or psychologist who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD will conduct the test. They will take a thorough note of your history, record it in detail and discuss your behaviour with you in different environments. This includes at work, at school as well as at home. You will be asked for an assessment of your ADHD symptoms and to complete tests, like tests of cognitive functioning.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you or someone you know has ADHD the first step is to visit your GP. They may be able to refer you to a private specialist such as psychologist or psychiatrist who is skilled in diagnosing adults with ADHD. You can also contact the experts directly to arrange an assessment. You will be asked to fill in an application form prior to your appointment. You will also need to bring information about your family mental health history as well as any previous psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is important to be forthcoming about your issues with the doctor, since you will be required to provide a full history for an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will review your family medical history and your medical history, as well as your current symptoms. The doctor will analyze this information to determine whether you have ADHD and the severity of your symptoms. They will also look into whether other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, could be causing your symptoms.
Depending on your situation, you may need additional neuropsychological, psychological, or learning disabilities testing. This can help rule out other conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms. For instance, some individuals who suffer from ADHD can also have other disabilities, such as autism or learning disabilities which may have similar symptoms to ADHD. It's recommended to ask your insurance company for recommendations about specialists who are able to identify adults suffering from ADHD. You can also contact the local support group for adults with ADHD and request referrals.
Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD feel relieved to finally understand why they have struggled in their lives. It can be difficult to deal the feelings that accompany a diagnosis. It is important to get a proper diagnosis from an experienced professional, so that you can take the next steps towards managing your ADHD and getting the most enjoyment from your life.
Treatment
The first step in getting a diagnosis is to find an healthcare professional who has experience dealing with adults suffering from ADHD. This may be a psychologist, psychiatrist or therapist who is familiar with the condition and has treated others in the past. You could also ask your family doctor to refer you to a nurse practitioner or an ADHD assessment.
A private evaluation of ADHD differs slightly from a regular psychiatric visit because it is an interview with a plan to assess your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. You should come prepared to discuss your issues with attention and hyperactivity in work, relationships as well as in your hobbies and school. You will also need to bring a list of your symptoms and how they have impacted your life over time, and any other mental health issues you've had.
If the healthcare professional who is conducting your assessment believes you may be suffering from ADHD they will evaluate you against the DSM V criteria for ADHD. They will take the list of symptoms that you've given and ask questions to determine if you have at least six traits (symptoms) which have been present in your life for at least 12 months.
how to get an adhd diagnosis uk will prepare an account, and then present the results of your test to you. If they determine that you aren't a candidate for ADHD they will explain why and suggest a different diagnosis that may better explain your problems.
It is crucial to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor once you've been diagnosed. They'll be able to suggest treatments and medications that will aid in managing your symptoms. There are a range of treatments specifically designed for adults with ADHD that include cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT), acceptance and mindfulness therapy.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a wonderful relief, especially for adults. You may find that it explains a lot about the reasons you've had difficulties in the past, and it can be liberating and empowering. It is important to remember that many adults suffer from self-stigma after being diagnosed. Individuals with these issues can benefit from therapy, particularly narrative therapy, to discover how to tell their story differently and to change the way they view themselves.
Support
Online services that permit people to get a quick ADHD diagnosis through a phone or online questionnaire are becoming more popular as mental health issues are less stigmatised. These services can save the time required to find a psychiatrist and wait for an assessment which can cut down the cost of getting treatment. They also have the benefit of being quicker and easier to navigate the NHS referral and assessment procedure, which may appear to be an endless maze.
However, they're not without criticism. In recent months, there has been a flurry of news stories and documentaries accusing private diagnostic clinics of underdiagnosing ADHD. One such documentary, made by BBC's Panorama, was titled The ADHD Scandal. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, however the original angle remains the same. Those who seek private ADHD diagnoses are being abused.
Psychiatry is a complex field, and it's not uncommon for people with ADHD to experience symptoms that aren't ADHD. It is therefore crucial to ensure that you're assessed by a psychiatrist who is specialized in adult ADHD, and has a deep understanding of how it presents in adults. A full assessment will involve collecting information from you as well as your family and friends as well as school reports as well as an assessment questionnaire prior to the test. Your therapist will then utilize the results to determine if you have ADHD and develop a comprehensive treatment plan, which could include medication or psychotherapy.
You should also consult your GP to see if they are willing to sign a shared-care agreement with you as well as your psychologist prior to seeking the private ADHD diagnosis. This means you'll only need to pay the NHS prescription cost for your medication. Some doctors won't do this It's a good idea to check before you start paying for an assessment.
Having the right support system in place can help you control the symptoms of ADHD and improve your quality of life. If you're ready to take the first step towards a better future visit our ADHD treatment page to find out more about the ways we can assist. You can also book a confidential, free phone consultation with one of our therapists to determine if we're a good choice for your needs.