ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are able to profit from patients who feel let-down by the NHS waiting list. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some clinics were offering unreliable diagnoses over video calls.
A questionnaire will be sent to the person, and they may also request an adult family member or partner complete the questionnaire. The questionnaire must be returned prior to when an appointment is scheduled.
Symptoms
If you find yourself constantly losing your keys, struggle to finish work or find yourself interrupted frequently by family or friends, it could be an indication of ADHD. This condition is common and affects up to 8.4 percent of children and 2.5% of adults, and can have a major impact on personal and professional life. Many people aren't aware that their symptoms result from ADHD and don't seek treatment because they don't know what to do. They may try to self-manage but this can be frustrating.
There isn't a medical or physical test for ADHD but a trained mental health specialist will draw information from a variety of sources to determine diagnosis, such as symptoms checklists and standardized behavior scales for rating, as well as a comprehensive history of the person's past and present performance, as well as information from others who are familiar with them. Depending on the nature and severity of the person's issue further psychological, learning disabilities, or neuropsychological testing may be performed.
Some people suffering from ADHD might also be suffering from co-occurring disorders, like depression and anxiety It is therefore essential for a medical professional to rule them out. A healthcare professional will typically examine for the presence of other medical disorders that can lead to similar symptoms, like a thyroid disorder or obesity.
GPs do not diagnose ADHD and cannot refer you to an expert. They can refer you to an Priory hospital or wellbeing center for an assessment. If you choose to go on your own for an assessment, it will be in a clinic and involve filling in questionnaires with yourself, your parents or partners, and other people who know you well. 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 will be carried out by an experienced psychiatrist or psychologist, who is specialized in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will take a thorough account of your history, take detailed notes and discuss your behaviour with you in various environments. This includes at home, at school and at work. You will be asked to provide an assessment of your ADHD symptoms and to complete tests, such as tests of cognitive function.
Diagnosis
It is recommended to first speak with your GP if you suspect that you or someone else you know could have ADHD. They might be able to refer you to a private specialist such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist who is experienced in diagnosing adults who suffer from ADHD. You can also contact the specialists directly to arrange an assessment. Before you attend your appointment with the clinician you'll need to fill in a questionnaire about the symptoms you've been experiencing. Additionally, you will need to bring details about your family's mental health history and any prior psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is crucial to be honest with your doctor about your health issues, as they will require an entire history to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will examine your family, personal medical history, and psychiatric history along with your current symptoms and problems. The doctor will use this information to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and the severity of your symptoms. They will also look at whether your symptoms might be caused by other mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.
Based on your specific situation, you may need additional neuropsychological, psychological or testing for learning disabilities. This can help rule out other conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms. For instance, some people who suffer from ADHD can also have other disorders of learning or autism which may have similar symptoms as ADHD. It's recommended to ask your insurance company for recommendations about experts who are qualified to identify adults suffering from ADHD. You can also call an organization that offers support for adults suffering from ADHD and request referrals.
adhd uk diagnosis who are diagnosed with ADHD discover it's an immense relief to understand the reason they've had to struggle in their lives. It isn't easy to face the feelings that accompany the diagnosis. It is vital to get a correct diagnosis from a doctor who is experienced in treating ADHD. This will allow you to take the next steps toward managing your ADHD.
Treatment
Locating a healthcare professional who has experience treating adults with ADHD is the first step in getting the right diagnosis. This may be a psychologist, psychiatrist or therapist who is knowledgeable about the condition and has treated others in the past. You can also request your family physician to refer you to an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.
A private assessment for ADHD will differ from a regular psychiatric appointment because it will include an interview that is structured to determine your symptoms and how they impact you in your everyday life. Prepare to discuss your struggles with hyperactivity and attention at work, in relationships or with your hobbies, as well as at school. You will need to bring along a list of symptoms and how these have affected your life over the years as well as any other mental health issues that you might have experienced.
If the healthcare professional conducting your evaluation believes that you may have ADHD, they will assess your case against the DSM V criteria for ADHD. They will ask you questions and use the symptoms you've listed to determine if you have six characteristics (symptoms). These characteristics must have been present for at least one year.
The healthcare professional will prepare a report, and then discuss the findings of your examination to you. If they conclude that you don't have ADHD, they will say the reasons why they believe that you do not meet the criteria and suggest another diagnosis that might better explain your issues.
It is essential to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor after you've been diagnosed. They'll be able to recommend therapies and medication that can aid in managing your symptoms. There are many therapies designed specifically for adults with ADHD that include cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT), mindfulness and acceptance commitment therapy.
It can be a massive relief to be diagnosed of ADHD, especially as an adult. You may find that it clarifies a lot about why you have had difficulties in the past, and that can be empowering and freeing. But, it's equally important to be aware that a lot of adults struggle with self-stigma when they are diagnosed. Therapy, especially narrative therapy, can be helpful for people who struggle to tell their own stories differently and change the way they view themselves.
Support
With mental health issues increasingly destigmatised, services have popped up online that give individuals the chance to get an ADHD diagnosis by an online or phone questionnaire. These services can cut down on the time required to find an acupuncturist and wait for an assessment, which in turn cuts the cost of treatment. They also have the benefit of being faster and simpler 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 were numerous reports and documentaries that have accused private clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. One of the documentaries, produced by BBC's Panorama and called The ADHD Scandal. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, however the original concept remains the same. People who seek private ADHD diagnoses are being abused.
Psychiatry can be a complex field, and it's not uncommon for people with ADHD to experience symptoms that aren't ADHD. It's crucial to find a psychiatrist who has a thorough understanding of adult ADHD and who is a specialist in the diagnosis. A full assessment will involve gathering information from you and your friends and family, including school reports as well as an assessment questionnaire. Your physician will use these results to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and then develop an overall treatment plan that may include therapy or medication.
You should also check with your GP to see if they are willing to sign a shared care agreement with you as well as your psychologist prior to seeking a private ADHD diagnosis. You'll only have to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. You should consult with your GP before spending money for an assessment.
The right support system in place can help you deal with the symptoms of ADHD and enhance your quality of life. Visit our ADHD treatment page for more information about how we can help you. You can also request a free, confidential phone consultation with our therapists in order to determine whether we're the best choice for you.