ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are making a profit from patients who feel let down due to the long NHS waiting lists. But an earlier BBC Panorama investigation found that certain clinics are giving out unreliable diagnoses through video calls.
Usually a person is given an application form to fill out by themselves, but also by someone close to them, such as a family member or partner. It is necessary to return this form prior to when an appointment can be made.
Symptoms
ADHD may be the reason behind your frequent loss of concentration and inability to finish tasks at work, or be interrupted by your loved ones or family. This condition can affect as much as 8.4 percent of children and 2.5 percent adults. It can have a profound impact on both your personal and professional lives. Many people are unaware that their symptoms result from ADHD and don't seek treatment because they don't know what to do. They may attempt to manage themselves but this can be frustrating.
There is no physical or medical test for ADHD. A certified mental health professional will utilize various sources of information to diagnose the condition, including symptom lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They will also use information from people who know the person, such as their past and present functioning and information from those closest to them. Based on the nature of the issues, additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests may be conducted.
Certain people suffering from ADHD can also have co-occurring disorders, like anxiety and depression, so it's important for a medical professional to rule these out. A healthcare professional will typically check for the presence of other medical conditions that could cause 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 a Priory hospital, or a wellbeing center for an assessment. If you visit a private clinic, the assessment will take place in a medical setting and involve filling in questionnaires with you, your partner or parents, as well as others who know you well. These questions are based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as defined in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5).
A psychologist or psychiatrist who has experience diagnosing ADHD will conduct the assessment. They will take a full history, make detailed notes and discuss your behavior with you in different environments. This includes at school, at home and at work. You will be asked for a rating of your ADHD symptoms and also to take tests, like tests of cognitive function.
Diagnosis
You should first consult your GP when you suspect you or someone else you know might have ADHD. They may be able to refer you to an individual specialist, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist who is skilled in diagnosing adults with ADHD. You can also reach out to specialists directly to set up an appointment. Before you attend your appointment with the doctor you'll need to fill in a questionnaire about the symptoms that you have been experiencing. You will also need to bring details about your family's health history, as well as any previous psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is crucial that you are honest with your doctor about your health issues, as he or she will need an extensive history in order to make an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will review your medical history of your family as well as your own medical history, and current symptoms. The doctor will analyze the information to determine if you have ADHD, and the severity of your symptoms. They will also determine if other mental health issues like depression or anxiety, could be causing your symptoms.
Depending on your situation, you may need additional psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities. This can help identify other conditions that could cause ADHD symptoms. Certain people with ADHD might also be suffering from autism or other learning disabilities which could cause similar symptoms. Asking your insurance company for specialists who are qualified to diagnose ADHD in adults is a great idea. You can also reach out to an adult group in your area with ADHD to inquire about recommendations.
Many people who are diagnosed with ADHD discover it's a relief to finally understand the reason they've had to struggle in their lives. However it can be a struggle to manage the emotions that come with being diagnosed. It is crucial to get a correct diagnosis from a clinician who has experience in treating ADHD. This will allow you to take the next steps toward managing your ADHD.
Treatment
The first step to getting a diagnosis is to find a healthcare professional who has experience working with adults with ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist who is knowledgeable about the disorder and has treated patients in the past. You could also ask your family physician to refer you to a nurse practitioner or an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment for ADHD will differ from a regular psychiatric appointment because it will include an organized interview to evaluate your symptoms and how they affect you in your daily activities. Come prepared to discuss your difficulties with hyperactivity and attention in your relationships, at work or with your hobbies, as well as at school. You will be required to bring a list of symptoms and how they have affected your life throughout the years and any other mental health issues that you might have experienced.
If the health professional conducting your examination believes that you might be suffering from ADHD the doctor will assess you according to the DSM V criteria. They will take the list of symptoms you've listed and ask questions to determine if you exhibit at least six traits (symptoms) that have been present in your life for a minimum of 12 months.
The healthcare professional will prepare an report and then explain to you the results of their evaluation. If they conclude you don't meet the criteria for ADHD they will explain 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 therapies and medication that can help you manage your symptoms. There are a range of therapies designed specifically for adults suffering from ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as acceptance and mindfulness therapy.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief, particularly for adults. It could be that it explains a lot about why you have struggled in the past, and that can be empowering and liberating. It's important to remember that many adults suffer from self-stigma after being diagnosed. Individuals with these issues may benefit from therapy, specifically narrative therapy, to discover how to tell their story in a different way and change the way they view themselves.
Support
Online services that permit people to receive a fast ADHD diagnosis via a telephone or online questionnaire have emerged as mental health problems are becoming less stigmatised. These services can cut down on the time required to find a psychiatrist and wait for an assessment, which in turn cuts the cost of treatment. These services are also more efficient and more user-friendly than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which can be like a maze.
They are not without critics. In recent months, there have been numerous stories and documentaries claiming private clinics of ignoring ADHD. One such documentary, click here made by BBC's Panorama was called The ADHD Scandal. The title was later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Exposed, however, the original premise remained the same: that those seeking private ADHD diagnosis are being swindled by.
The field of psychiatry is complex and it's not uncommon to see people suffer from symptoms that aren't caused by ADHD. That's why it's important to make sure you are diagnosed by a psychiatrist that is an expert in adult ADHD and has a comprehensive understanding of how it presents in adults. A thorough assessment requires collecting data from your family, friends and school reports. It could also comprise an assessment form prior to your visit. Your doctor will then use these findings to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and create a holistic treatment plan that could include medication or psychotherapy.
It's also worth checking with your GP before seeking a private diagnosis for ADHD, to see whether they'll agree to a shared-care agreement with you and your psychologist. This means you'll only have to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. It is recommended to consult your doctor before you spend money for an assessment.
The right support system can aid you in managing ADHD symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you're ready to take that first step towards a better life go to our ADHD treatment page to learn more about how we can help. You can also schedule an appointment for a confidential, no-cost phone consultation with our therapists to see if we are the right fit for you.