ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are capitalising on patients who feel let down due to the long NHS waiting lists. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that certain clinics were providing incorrect diagnoses through video calls.
Usually, a person will be sent an application form to fill out by themselves and also by a close family member or partner. This will need to be returned prior to when an appointment can be made.
Symptoms
ADHD can be the cause of your frequent key loss of focus, inability to finish your tasks at work, or getting interrupted by your family or friends. This common condition affects up to 8.4 percent of children and 2.5 percent of adults, and can have a significant impact on your professional and personal life. However, many people do not realize that their symptoms are due to ADHD and don't seek assistance because they don't know what to do. They may attempt to manage themselves but this can be frustrating.
There isn't a physical or medical test for ADHD but a trained mental health professional will make use of information from several sources to determine a diagnosis, including the symptom checklists and the standardized behaviour scales for rating, as well an extensive review of the person's history and current functioning, and information from people who are familiar with them. Depending on the nature of the problems further neuropsychological, psychological or testing for learning disabilities could also be conducted.
It is essential that a healthcare professional determine if there are co-occurring conditions such as depression and anxiety in some people with ADHD. A healthcare professional will typically examine for the presence of other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms, for example, a thyroid disorder or obesity.
Doctors are not able to diagnose ADHD and are unable to refer you to a specialist. They can refer you to an Priory hospital or wellbeing centre to conduct an assessment. If you choose to go on your own the test will take place in a clinic and involve filling in questionnaires with you, your parents or partner and other people who know you well. These questionnaires are based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as described 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 psychologist or psychiatrist who specialises in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will take a thorough note of your history, record it in detail and discuss your behaviour with you in different settings. This could include at school, at home and in the workplace. You will be asked for an assessment of your ADHD symptoms and to complete tests, like tests of cognitive functioning.
Diagnosis
If you think that you or someone you know suffers from ADHD, the first step is to see your GP. They can recommend you to a private physician, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist who is certified to diagnose adults with ADHD. You can also reach out to specialists directly to schedule an assessment. Before you can make an appointment with the clinician, you will need to complete an online questionnaire regarding the symptoms that you have been experiencing. You will also need to provide information about your family's mental health history and any previous psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is crucial to be honest with your physician about your health issues, as they will require an extensive history in order to make an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will examine your family, personal, and psychiatric medical history and also your current symptoms and problems. The doctor will utilize the information to determine if you have ADHD, and the severity of your symptoms. They will also look into whether other mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, could be causing your symptoms.
Depending on the situation, you might require additional mental, learning disabilities, or neuropsychological testing. This will help identify other issues that can cause the symptoms of ADHD. Some people with ADHD might also have autism or other learning disabilities, which can cause similar symptoms. Contacting your insurance provider about specialists who are able to diagnose ADHD in adults is a great idea. You may also contact an adult group in your area with ADHD to inquire about referrals.
Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD are happy to realize the reason they've had to struggle in their lives. However it can be a challenge to deal with the feelings that accompany the diagnosis. It is important to get a proper diagnosis from a qualified clinician, so that you can move forward in managing your ADHD and making the most of your life.
Treatment
Locating a healthcare professional who has expertise in dealing with adults suffering from ADHD is the first step to get a proper diagnosis. This could be a psychiatrist, therapist or psychologist with experience treating adults with ADHD. Alternatively, you could request your family physician to refer you to an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.
A private evaluation of ADHD differs from a regular psychiatric visit because it includes an interview with a plan to evaluate your symptoms and how they impact your everyday life. Come prepared to discuss your struggles with attention and hyperactivity at work, in relationships, hobbies, and school. You will be required to bring a list of symptoms and how they have affected your life over the years, as well any other mental health issues that you might have faced.
If the healthcare professional who is conducting the assessment believes that you be suffering from ADHD the doctor will determine your ADHD based on the DSM V criteria. They will ask you questions and analyze the information you've provided 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 inform you the results of their evaluation. If they determine that you do not meet the criteria for ADHD, they will explain the reason and suggest a new diagnosis that may better explain your problems.
It is crucial to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor after you've been diagnosed. They will be able to suggest therapy and medication that may aid in managing your symptoms. There are a variety of treatments specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) mindfulness, 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 had difficulty in the past it can be empowering and inspiring. It is important to keep in mind, however, that many people suffer from self-stigma following being diagnosed. They can benefit from therapy, especially narrative therapy, to learn how to tell their story differently and to change the way they view themselves.
Support
Online services that allow people to receive a fast ADHD diagnosis by phone or online questionnaire have been gaining popularity as mental health issues are becoming less stigmatized. These services can help cut down the time and cost of treatment by reducing the time it takes to find a psychiatrist wait for an assessment, and then schedule the appointment. These services are also faster and more user-friendly than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which can feel like a maze.
However, they are not without their critics. In recent months, there have been numerous stories and documentaries that have accused private clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of a BBC Panorama documentary. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, but the original angle remains the same. Those who seek private ADHD diagnoses are being exploited.
The field of psychiatry is complex and it's not unusual for people to present with symptoms that are not actually caused by ADHD. It is essential to find a psychiatrist with an in-depth understanding of adult ADHD and who is a specialist in the field of diagnosis. A full assessment involves collecting information from your friends, family members and school reports. It may also include an assessment form that you fill out prior to the time. Your doctor will then use these findings to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and create a holistic treatment plan that could include psychotherapy or medication.
You should also consult your GP to determine if they are willing to sign a shared-care contract with you and with your psychologist before seeking the private ADHD diagnosis. This means that you'll only need to pay the NHS prescription cost for your medication. Some doctors won't do this It's a good idea to check before you start spending money on an assessment.
Having the right support system in place can help you control the symptoms of ADHD and improve your quality of life. If you're ready for the first step toward a better future go to our ADHD treatment page to find out more about the ways we can assist. You can also book a confidential, no-cost phone consultation with one of our therapists to determine if we're the right fit for your needs.