ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are capitalising on patients who feel disappointed by logjammed NHS waiting lists. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that certain clinics were providing incorrect diagnoses through video calls.
A questionnaire will be given to the person and they can also have an adult family member or partner complete it. The questionnaire must be returned prior to an appointment can be made.
Symptoms
If you keep losing your keys, find it difficult to complete work tasks or are frequently interrupted by family members or friends It could be an indication of ADHD. This condition can affect up to 8.4% children and 2.5% adults. It can have a major impact on both personal and professional lives. However, many people don't realize their symptoms are due to ADHD and don't seek assistance because they don't know what to do. They might try to manage their own symptoms but this can be frustrating.
There is no medical or physical test for ADHD. A certified mental health professional will utilize a variety of information to diagnose the condition, including the symptom list and standardized rating scales. They will also use information from people who are familiar with the person, such as their past and current functioning and information from those closest to them. Based on the nature of the individual's problems, additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests may be conducted.
It's important that a healthcare professional determine if there are co-occurring conditions like anxiety and depression in some people with ADHD. A healthcare professional will typically examine for the presence of other medical disorders that can lead to similar symptoms, such as the thyroid disorder or obesity.
GPs are not specialists and they cannot diagnose ADHD, but they may refer you to an expert like a Priory hospital or a wellbeing centre for an assessment. If you choose to go on your own, 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 questionnaires are based upon the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5th Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
The evaluation process will be carried out by an experienced psychiatrist or psychologist, who is specialized in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will take a full account of your history, take detailed notes and discuss your behaviour with you in various environments. This will include at school, at work and at home. You will be asked to assess your ADHD symptoms over the time of a week, and complete tests such as the cognitive function test.
Diagnosis
You should first talk to your GP if you suspect that you or someone else you know could be suffering from ADHD. They may refer you to a private doctor such as psychiatrist or psychologist who is certified to diagnose adults with ADHD. You can also contact experts directly to set up an appointment. You will be asked to complete a questionnaire before your appointment. You should also bring details about your family's mental health history and any prior psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is essential that you be honest with your doctor about your symptoms, as the doctor will require a complete history to make an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will review your family medical history as well as your own medical history, and current symptoms. The doctor will use this information to determine whether you have ADHD and the severity of your symptoms. They will also consider whether your symptoms could be caused by other mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety.
Depending on the situation, you might require additional psychological testing, such as learning disabilities or neuropsychological tests. This can help rule out other conditions that can cause ADHD symptoms. Some people with ADHD may also have autism or other learning disabilities which could cause similar symptoms. Inquiring with 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 referrals.
Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD are relieved to recognize the reasons they've struggled in their lives. However it can be a struggle to deal with the feelings that come with being diagnosed. It is vital to get a correct diagnosis from a doctor who has experience in treating ADHD. This will allow you to move on toward managing your ADHD.
Treatment
Finding a healthcare professional with expertise in dealing with adults suffering from ADHD is the first step in getting a proper diagnosis. This could be a psychiatrist, therapist or psychologist who has experience treating people suffering from ADHD. You could also ask your family physician to refer you to a nurse practitioner or an ADHD assessment.
A private evaluation of ADHD differs from a regular psychiatric appointment because it is an organized interview that will evaluate your symptoms and the way they affect your daily life. You should come prepared to talk about your issues with hyperactivity and attention in your relationships, work or hobbies, as well as school. You should also provide a list of your symptoms and how they have affected your life over time, as well as any other mental health issues that you've faced.
If the healthcare professional conducting your examination believes that you might be suffering from ADHD the doctor will determine your ADHD based on the DSM V criteria. They will ask you questions and use the information you've provided to determine if you exhibit six characteristics (symptoms). These traits must have been present for at least a year.
adult adhd diagnosis will write a report and explain to you the results of their evaluation. If they decide that you don't suffer from ADHD, they will say the reasons why they believe that you don't meet the criteria and suggest another diagnosis that might better explain your issues.
It is essential to discuss treatment options with your doctor after you have a diagnosis. They can recommend therapy and medications to help you manage your symptoms. There are many treatments specifically designed for adults with ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and acceptance commitment therapy.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief, particularly for adults. It could be that it explains a lot about the reasons you've had difficulties in the past, and that can be empowering and liberating. It is important to keep in mind that a lot of adults experience self-stigma after being diagnosed. Individuals with these issues can benefit from therapy, especially narrative therapy, to learn how to tell their story in a different manner and change the way they judge themselves.
Support
Online services that allow people to get a quick ADHD diagnosis via a phone call or online survey have emerged as mental health issues are less stigmatised. These services can save the time required to find an acupuncturist and wait for an assessment which, in turn, reduces the cost of treatment. These services are also faster and easier to navigate than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which may feel like a maze.
They're not without criticism. In recent months, there have been numerous stories and documentaries that have accused private clinics of being 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. People who seek private ADHD diagnoses are abused.
Psychiatry can be a complex field, and it's not uncommon for people with ADHD to experience symptoms that aren't ADHD. This is why it's crucial to ensure that you're assessed by a psychiatrist who specialises in adult ADHD, and has a comprehensive understanding of how it presents in adults. A complete assessment involves collecting information from your family, friends and school reports. It could also comprise an assessment form that you fill out prior to the time. Your clinician will then use the results to determine if you have ADHD and formulate a holistic treatment plan that could include medication or psychotherapy.
You should also check with your GP to see whether they're willing to sign a shared-care contract with you and with your psychologist before seeking a private ADHD diagnosis. You will only be required 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 on an assessment.
Having the right support system in place can help you deal with the symptoms of ADHD and improve the quality of your life. Visit our ADHD treatment page for more details on how we can help you. You can also schedule an anonymous, no-cost phone consultation with one of our therapists to determine if we're the best choice for your needs.