ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private health providers are able to profit from patients who feel disappointed by the NHS waiting list. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that certain clinics were providing inaccurate diagnoses via video calls.
A questionnaire will be sent to the person, and they may also request an adult family member or partner complete it. The questionnaire must be returned prior to an appointment can be scheduled.
Signs and symptoms
If you keep getting lost in your keys, struggle to finish tasks at work or find yourself interrupted frequently by family or friends this could be an indication of ADHD. This common condition affects up to 8.4% of children and 2.5% of adults, and can have a major impact on your professional and personal life. Many people are unaware that their symptoms result from ADHD and aren't seeking treatment because they don't know what to do. Sometimes, they'll try to manage their own symptoms but this can be frustrating and might not be successful.
There is no physical or medical test for ADHD. A qualified mental health professional will use a variety of data to determine the severity of the condition, such as symptoms lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They will also use information from other people who are familiar with the person, including their previous and current functioning and information from those closest to them. Based on the nature and severity of the person's issue and the severity of the problem, additional tests for learning disabilities, psychological, or neuropsychological tests could be conducted.
It is essential that a healthcare professional determine if there are co-occurring conditions such as anxiety and depression in some people suffering from ADHD. A healthcare professional will look for other medical disorders which could cause similar symptoms. For example, a thyroid disorder or weight gain.
GPs are not specialists and are unable to diagnose ADHD However, they may refer you to a specialist like a Priory hospital or a wellbeing centre for an assessment. The assessment will take place in a setting that is clinical and you or your parents, partner or any other relatives to you will complete questionnaires. These questionnaires are based on diagnostic criteria for ADHD as defined in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
The assessment process is performed by a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist, who specializes in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will take a full history, make detailed notes and discuss your behavior with you in various situations. This could include at school, at work as well as at home. You will be asked to rate your ADHD symptoms throughout the time of a week, and take tests like the cognitive function test.
Diagnosis
You should first talk to your GP in the event that you suspect you or someone else you know might have ADHD. They may refer you to a private doctor like a psychologist or psychiatrist who is trained to identify adults with ADHD. You can also reach out to specialists directly to arrange an assessment. Before you can make an appointment with the therapist you'll have to fill in a questionnaire about the symptoms you've been experiencing. Additionally, Learn Alot more will need to bring information about your family mental health history as well as any prior psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is important to be open about your issues with the clinician, as you will be required to provide complete medical history to ensure an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will examine your family, personal, and psychiatric medical history, as well as your current symptoms and issues. They will then analyze this information to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and the severity of your symptoms. They will also look into whether other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, could be the cause of your symptoms.
Depending on your situation, you may need additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. This can help rule out other conditions that can cause ADHD symptoms. Some people who suffer from ADHD may also have autism or other learning disabilities, which could cause similar symptoms. It's recommended to ask your insurance company for recommendations on professionals who are qualified to diagnose adults with ADHD. You can also contact a local group of adults with ADHD to inquire about recommendations.
Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD are relieved to recognize the reasons they've had to struggle in their lives. However it can be a challenge to deal with the feelings associated with the diagnosis. It is crucial to get the correct diagnosis from a professional who is experienced in treating ADHD. This will allow you to move on towards managing your ADHD.
Treatment
Locating a healthcare professional who has experience dealing with adults suffering from ADHD is the first step to get a proper diagnosis. This could be a therapist, psychiatrist or psychologist with experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. You can also ask your family physician to refer you to a nurse practitioner or an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment of ADHD differs slightly from a typical psychiatric consultation due to an interview with a plan to evaluate your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. You should come prepared to talk about your issues with attention and hyperactivity in the workplace, in relationships, hobbies and school. You will be required to bring the symptoms you are experiencing and how they have affected your life over the years and any other mental health issues that you might have experienced.
If the healthcare professional conducting the assessment believes that you have ADHD, he or she will determine your ADHD based on the DSM V criteria. They will ask you questions and analyze the symptoms you've listed to determine if you exhibit six characteristics (symptoms). These traits must be present for at least one year.
The healthcare professional will prepare an account, and then present the results of your examination to you. If they conclude you aren't a candidate for ADHD They will explain the reason and suggest a new diagnosis that may better explain your problems.
It is important to discuss treatment options with your doctor once you have a diagnosis. They can suggest medication and therapy that can help you manage your symptoms. There are a variety of treatments specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) mindfulness, acceptance and mindfulness therapy.
It can be a massive relief to be diagnosed of ADHD particularly as an adult. It could explain why you struggled in the previous, which can be liberating and empower. But, it's equally important to be aware that many adults struggle deeply with self-stigma when they are diagnosed. Therapy, especially narrative therapy, can be beneficial for those who need to learn to tell their own story differently and change the way they perceive themselves.
Support
Online services that permit people to get a quick ADHD diagnosis through a telephone or online questionnaire have emerged as mental health issues are less stigmatized. These services can help cut down the amount of time and expense involved in treatment by reducing the time needed to find a psychiatrist, attend an assessment, then schedule the appointment. These services are also faster and easier to navigate than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which can be like a maze.
However, they're not free of criticism. In recent months, there's been a flurry of news reports and documentaries that accuse private diagnostic clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. One such documentary, made by BBC's Panorama, was called The ADHD Scandal. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, however the original premise remains the same. Patients seeking private ADHD diagnoses are being exploited.
Psychiatry is a complex field and it's not uncommon to see people suffer from symptoms that are not actually caused by ADHD. That's why it's important to make sure you are diagnosed by a psychiatrist who specialises in adult ADHD and has a deep understanding of how it manifests in adults. A full assessment will involve gathering information from you and your family and friends such as school reports and an assessment questionnaire prior to the test. Your physician will analyze these findings to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and develop an entire treatment plan that could include therapy or medication.
It's also worth checking with your GP before requesting a private diagnosis for ADHD, to see whether they'll sign a shared care contract with you and your psychologist. This means you'll only need to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. Some doctors won't take this approach, so it's best to check before you start paying 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 towards a better future, head over to our ADHD treatment page to learn more about how we can help. You can also book a free, confidential phone consultation with our therapists to see whether we're the right fit for you.