ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are making a profit from patients who feel let down by logjammed NHS waiting lists. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some clinics were offering unreliable diagnoses over video calls.
Usually, a person will be sent an assessment questionnaire to complete by themselves and also by someone close to them, such as a family member or partner. This will need to be returned prior to an appointment can be scheduled.
Symptoms
ADHD could be the reason for your frequent key loss of focus, inability to finish your tasks at work, or being interrupted by your family or friends. This condition is common and affects up to 8.4 percent of children and 2.5 percent of adults and can have a major impact on personal and professional life. Many people aren't aware that their symptoms are caused by ADHD and do not seek treatment because they don't know what to do. Sometimes, they'll try to manage their own symptoms however this can be difficult and may not always be effective.
There is no medical or physical test for ADHD. A certified mental health professional will use diverse sources to diagnose the condition, including symptoms lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They will also use information from other people who are familiar with the individual, such as their past and current functioning and information from those closest to them. Depending on the nature of the individual's issues and the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities tests may be conducted.
Certain people suffering from ADHD may also suffer from co-occurring disorders, like anxiety and depression It is therefore essential for a doctor to rule them out. A healthcare professional will usually examine for the presence of other medical disorders that can lead to similar symptoms, like an obesity-related thyroid disorder or a thyroid disorder.
The GP does not diagnose ADHD and are unable to refer you to an expert. They can refer you to an Priory hospital or a wellbeing centre for an assessment. The assessment will take place in a clinical environment and you or your parents, partner or any other relatives to you will fill out questionnaires. These questions are based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as laid out in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5).
The assessment process is conducted by a skilled psychologist or psychiatrist who is specialized in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will take a thorough account of your history, take detailed notes and discuss with you your behaviour in different situations. This includes at work, at school, and at home. You will be asked to assess your ADHD symptoms over the course of a week. You will also be asked to complete tests such as the cognitive function test.
Diagnosis
You should first consult your GP in the event that you suspect you or someone else you know might have ADHD. They may be able to refer you to a private specialist such as psychologists or psychiatrists who is skilled in diagnosing adults with ADHD. You can also contact the experts directly to schedule an assessment. Before you attend your appointment with the clinician, you will need to complete an assessment form regarding the symptoms that you have been experiencing. You will also be asked to provide information about your medical history, including any previous psychiatric treatments you may have received.
It is crucial to be honest about your symptoms with the clinician, as you will be required to provide the full details to get an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will review your family, personal medical history and psychiatric history and also your current symptoms and problems. The doctor will use this information to determine whether you have ADHD and the severity of your symptoms. They will also consider whether your symptoms might be caused by other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
Based on your specific situation it is possible that you will require additional neuropsychological, psychological or testing for learning disabilities. This will help rule out other issues that can cause the symptoms of ADHD. For instance, some people who suffer from ADHD might also suffer from other disorders of learning or autism that can exhibit similar symptoms as ADHD. Asking your insurance company about specialists who are able to diagnose ADHD in adults is a good idea. You can also contact a local group of people with ADHD to inquire about referrals.
Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD are relieved to understand why they have been unable to live their lives. However it can be a struggle to deal with the feelings associated with the diagnosis. It is vital to get the correct diagnosis from a doctor who has experience in treating ADHD. This will allow you to take the next step to manage your ADHD.
Treatment
The first step to get a diagnosis is to find an healthcare professional who is experienced in working with adults with ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, therapist or psychologist who has experience treating adults with ADHD. You can also ask your family doctor to refer you to an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.
A private assessment for ADHD will differ slightly from a regular psychiatric appointment due to the fact that it involves a structured interview to assess your symptoms and how they impact you in your everyday life. Be prepared to talk about your issues with attention and hyperactivity in your relationships, at work and hobbies, as well as in school. You'll also need to provide a list of your symptoms and how they have affected your life over time, and any other mental health issues you've experienced.
If the healthcare professional who is conducting your evaluation believes that you may be suffering from ADHD, they will assess your case against the DSM V criteria for ADHD. They will ask you questions and analyze the symptoms you've listed to determine if you exhibit six characteristics (symptoms). These traits should have been present for at least a year.
The healthcare professional will write an account, and then present the results of your test to you. read more If they decide that you don't suffer from ADHD they will then explain the reasons why they believe you do not meet the criteria and suggest another diagnosis that could better explain your problems.
If you've been diagnosed it's important to discuss your treatment options with your physician. They'll be able to recommend treatments and medications that will help you manage your symptoms. There are a variety of therapies specifically designed for adults with ADHD, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and acceptance commitment therapy.
It can be a major relief to get a diagnosis of ADHD particularly as an adult. It could be that it provides a lot of information about why you have struggled in the past, and that can be empowering and liberating. It's important to remember that a lot of adults experience self-stigma after being diagnosed. They may benefit from therapy, particularly narrative therapy, in order to learn how to tell their story in a different manner and change the way they perceive themselves.
Support
Online services that permit people to receive a quick ADHD diagnosis through a telephone or online questionnaire are becoming more popular as mental health issues are becoming less stigmatized. These services can cut down on the cost and time required for treatment by reducing the time required to locate a psychiatrist, wait for an assessment, and then schedule an appointment. These services are also quicker and easier to navigate than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which may feel like a maze at times.
They're not without criticism. In recent months, there's been a wave of documentaries and stories accusing private diagnostic clinics of underdiagnosing ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of an BBC Panorama documentary. The title has since been changed to Private ADHD Clinics Exposed, however the initial angle was the same: those seeking private ADHD diagnosis are being taken advantage of.
Psychiatry is a complex field, and it's not uncommon to see people suffer from symptoms that are not actually caused by ADHD. It is crucial to find a psychiatrist who has a thorough understanding of adult ADHD and who is an expert in the diagnosis. A complete assessment involves gathering information from your family and friends as well as school reports and a pre-assessment questionnaire. Your therapist will then utilize the results to determine if you suffer from ADHD and develop a comprehensive treatment plan, which could include medication or psychotherapy.
You should also check with your GP to see whether they're willing sign a shared care agreement with you and with your psychologist before 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, so it's best to confirm this before spending money for an assessment.
The right support system in place can help you manage the symptoms of ADHD, and improve the quality of your life. If you're ready to take that first step toward a better future go to our ADHD treatment page to find out more about how we can assist you. You can also schedule an appointment for a confidential, no-cost phone consultation with our therapists to see whether we're the best fit for you.