ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers can profit from patients who feel depressed by the NHS waiting list. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that certain clinics were providing incorrect diagnoses through video calls.
Usually, a person will be sent a questionnaire to complete by themselves and also by someone close to them, such as a family member or partner. It is required to fill out this form prior to when an appointment can be scheduled.
Symptoms
If you find yourself constantly losing your keys, find it difficult to complete work tasks or find yourself interrupted frequently by friends or family members this could be a sign of ADHD. This common condition 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 don't seek treatment because they don't know what to do. They may attempt to manage themselves but this can be difficult.
There is no physical or medical test for ADHD. A trained mental health professional will use various sources of data to determine the severity of the condition, such as symptoms lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They will also use information from people who know the individual, such as their previous and current functioning, as well as information from those closest to them. Depending on the severity and nature of the person's issue further tests for learning disabilities, psychological, or neuropsychological tests may be carried out.
It is essential that a medical professional check for co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and depression in some people suffering from ADHD. A healthcare professional will look for other medical disorders which can cause similar symptoms. For example, a thyroid disorder or weight increase.
GPs do not diagnose ADHD and cannot refer you to a specialist. They may refer you to a Priory hospital or wellbeing center to conduct an assessment. When you go privately for an assessment, it will take place in a clinic and involve filling in questionnaires with your partner or parents, as well as others who know you well. 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).
The evaluation process will be conducted by a skilled psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in the diagnosis of ADHD. 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 rate your ADHD symptoms over the course of a week. You will also be asked to take tests, such as an assessment of cognitive function.
Diagnosis
If you believe that you or someone you know has ADHD, the first step is to consult your GP. They can recommend you to a private physician such as a psychiatrist or psychologist who is trained to diagnose people with ADHD. You can also contact the experts directly yourself to organise an assessment. You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire before your appointment. You will also be asked to supply details about your mental health history, including any previous treatment you've received.
It is essential that you are honest with your physician regarding your symptoms, since the doctor will require a complete history to make an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will examine the medical history of your family members, your personal medical history, and your current symptoms. The doctor will utilize this information to determine if you suffer from ADHD, and the severity of your symptoms. They will also consider whether other mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, might be causing your symptoms.
Based on the circumstances, you may require additional psycho-educational, learning disabilities, or neuropsychological tests. This will help determine other causes that could cause the symptoms of ADHD. For example, some people with ADHD can also have other disabilities, such as autism or learning disabilities, which can have similar symptoms as ADHD. Inquiring with your insurance company for specialists who are qualified to diagnose ADHD in adults is a good idea. You can also call a local support group for adults with ADHD and ask for recommendations.
Many people diagnosed with ADHD feel it's a relief to finally have an explanation for why they've had to struggle in their lives. However it can be a struggle to manage the emotions associated with being diagnosed. It is important to get a proper diagnosis from a qualified clinician to move forward in managing your ADHD and getting the most enjoyment from your life.
Treatment
Finding a doctor who has experience treating adults with ADHD is the first step towards getting the right diagnosis. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist who is knowledgeable about the disorder and has treated others in the past. Alternatively, you could request your family physician to refer you to an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.
A private assessment of ADHD differs slightly from a regular psychiatric appointment because it is an organized interview that will examine your symptoms and the way they affect your daily life. It is recommended that you are prepared to talk about your problems with hyperactivity and attention in your relationships, work or hobbies, as well as school. You'll have to bring an inventory of your symptoms and how these have affected your life over the years, as well any other mental health issues you may have had.
If adhd diagnosis who is conducting the assessment believes that you have ADHD, he or she will evaluate you based on the DSM V criteria. They will use the list of symptoms you've provided and ask questions to determine if you exhibit at least six signs (symptoms) that have been present throughout your life for at least 12 months.
The healthcare professional will write a report and explain to you the outcome of your assessment. If they decide that you don't meet the criteria for ADHD They will explain the reasons why and suggest a different diagnosis that may better explain your problems.
It is essential to discuss treatment options with your doctor after you have a diagnosis. They'll be able to suggest treatments and medications that will help you manage your symptoms. There are many treatments specifically designed for adults with ADHD that include cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT), acceptance and mindfulness therapy.
It can be a massive relief to get a diagnosis of ADHD especially as an adult. It could explain why you struggled in the previous, which can be liberating and empower. It's also important to keep in mind that many adults struggle with self-stigma after being diagnosed. These individuals may benefit from therapy, specifically narrative therapy, to learn how to tell their story in a different manner and to change how they judge themselves.
Support
With mental health issues increasingly destigmatised, services have emerged on the internet that give individuals the chance to receive an ADHD diagnosis through an online or phone questionnaire. These services can help cut down the cost and time required for treatment by reducing the time required to find a psychiatrist wait for an assessment, and then schedule the appointment. These services are also more efficient and easier to navigate than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which can be like a maze at times.
They're not without criticism. In recent months, there have been many stories and documentaries accusing private clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of a BBC Panorama documentary. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, however the original angle remains the same. Those who seek private ADHD diagnoses are being abused.
The field of psychiatry can be a bit complex, and it's not uncommon for patients to exhibit symptoms that aren't caused by ADHD. It is essential to find a psychiatrist who has an in-depth understanding of adult ADHD and who is a specialist in the diagnosis. A full assessment will involve collecting information from you as well as your friends and family as well as school reports and a pre-assessment questionnaire. Your clinician will then use these results to determine if you have ADHD and develop a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include medication or psychotherapy.
You should also consult your GP to see whether they're willing sign a shared care agreement with you and your psychologist before seeking the private ADHD diagnosis. You'll only need to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. Some GPs will refuse to take this approach, so it's best to verify before spending money for an assessment.
The right support system can help you manage ADHD symptoms and improve your life quality. Visit our ADHD treatment page for more information about how we can help you. You can also book an anonymous, no-cost phone consultation with one of our therapists to determine if we're a good solution for you.