ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private health providers are able to benefit patients who feel let-down by the NHS waiting list. But an earlier BBC Panorama investigation found that some clinics are distributing unreliable diagnoses through video calls.
Usually a person will be sent an assessment questionnaire to complete on their own, as well as by an immediate family member or partner. It is required to fill out this form prior to when an appointment can be scheduled.
Symptoms
ADHD could be the reason behind your frequent loss of concentration, inability to complete tasks at work, or being interrupted by your family or friends. 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 do not realize that their symptoms are due to ADHD and do not seek help because they aren't sure what to do. Sometimes, they'll try to manage their own symptoms but this can be a struggle and may not be effective.
There is no physical or medical test for ADHD. A certified mental health professional will utilize diverse sources to diagnose the condition, including symptom lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They may also draw information from people who know the person, such as their past and current functioning, as well as information from those closest to them. Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's problem, additional psychological, learning disabilities, or neuropsychological testing may be performed.
Certain people with ADHD might also be suffering from co-occurring disorders, like depression and anxiety It is therefore essential for a healthcare professional to rule these out. A healthcare professional will test for any other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms. For example, a thyroid disorder or weight increase.
Doctors are not experts and are unable to diagnose ADHD however, they can refer you to specialists such as a Priory hospital or a wellbeing centre, to conduct an assessment. If you choose to go on your own for an assessment, it will be in a medical setting and will involve filling out questionnaires with your partner or parents, as well as others who know you well. 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 will be performed by a qualified 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 behavior with you in various settings. This could include at home, at school and at work. You will be asked for an assessment of your ADHD symptoms and to take tests, such as a test of cognitive function.
Diagnosis
If you believe that you or someone you know has ADHD, the first step is to visit your GP. They may be able to refer you to a private specialist such as psychologist or psychiatrist who is experienced in diagnosing adults who suffer from ADHD. You can also reach out to specialists directly to schedule an assessment. You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire before your appointment. Additionally, you will need to bring details about your family's mental health history as well as any prior psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is crucial that you are honest with your doctor about your health issues, as they will require a complete history to make an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will review your family, personal medical history and psychiatric history and also your current symptoms and problems. 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 depression or anxiety, might be causing your symptoms.
Depending on the situation, you may require additional psychological, learning disabilities, or neuropsychological testing. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis will help you rule out other conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms. Some people with ADHD might also be suffering from autism or other learning disabilities that can trigger similar symptoms. It is also a good idea to ask your insurance company for recommendations on specialists who are able to identify adults suffering from ADHD. You can also call a local support group for adults suffering from ADHD and ask for recommendations.
Many people diagnosed with ADHD find that it is an immense relief to understand the reason they've had to struggle in their lives. It can be difficult to deal the feelings that accompany the diagnosis. It is essential to receive the correct diagnosis from a clinician who has experience in treating ADHD. This will enable you to take the next step towards managing your ADHD.
Treatment
The first step to getting a diagnosis is to find an healthcare professional who is skilled in working with adults with ADHD. This may be a psychologist, psychiatrist or therapist who is familiar with the condition and has treated others in the past. Alternately, you can ask your family doctor to refer you for an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.
A private evaluation of ADHD differs from a typical psychiatric consultation because it includes a structured interview that will examine your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. It is important to be prepared to discuss your problems with attention and hyperactivity in work, relationships or hobbies, as well as school. You will have 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 your evaluation believes that you might have ADHD They will test you against the DSM V criteria for ADHD. They will use the list of symptoms you've listed and ask questions to determine whether or not you are suffering from at least six signs (symptoms) that have been present in your life for at least a year.
The healthcare professional will write an assessment report and explain the results of your examination to you. If they decide that you aren't a candidate for ADHD they will explain the reason and suggest a new diagnosis that could better explain your problems.
It is crucial to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor once you have a diagnosis. They will be able to suggest medication and therapy that may assist you in managing your symptoms. There are many treatments that are specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These include cognitive-behavioral (CBT), acceptance commitment therapy, and mindfulness.
It can be a huge relief to receive a diagnosis of ADHD especially as an adult. It may explain why you were struggling in the past and can be empowering and inspiring. However, it's equally important to be aware that many adults struggle with self-stigma after being diagnosed. Therapy, especially narrative therapy, can be helpful for people who struggle to tell their own story differently and change the way they view themselves.
Support
Online services that allow people to receive a quick ADHD diagnosis via a phone or online questionnaire have emerged as mental health issues are becoming less stigmatized. These services can cut down on the cost and time required for treatment by reducing the time it takes to locate a psychiatrist, wait for an assessment, and then schedule the appointment. These services are also more efficient and easier to navigate than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which can be like a maze at times.
There are plenty of critics. In recent months, there's been a wave of stories and documentaries accusing private diagnostic clinics of knowingly overdiagnosing ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of the BBC Panorama documentary. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, however the original premise remains the same. Patients seeking private ADHD diagnoses are being abused.
Psychiatry is a complex field and it's not unusual for patients to exhibit symptoms that are not actually caused by ADHD. That's why it's important to ensure that you're assessed by a psychiatrist who specialises in adult ADHD, and has a deep understanding of how it presents in adults. A full assessment will involve collecting information from you as well as your family and friends, including school reports and a pre-assessment questionnaire. Your clinician will then use the results to determine if you suffer from ADHD and create a holistic treatment plan, which may include psychotherapy or medication.
You should also check with your GP to see whether they're willing sign a shared care agreement with you and with your psychologist before seeking a private ADHD diagnosis. This means you'll only need to pay the NHS prescription cost for your medication. Some GPs will refuse to do this It's a good idea to check before you start paying for an assessment.
The right support system in place can help you control the symptoms of ADHD, and improve the quality of your life. Visit our ADHD treatment page to learn more about how we can help you. You can also book a free, confidential phone consultation with our therapists to see whether we're the right person for you.