ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are gaining a foothold on patients who feel disappointed by the stifling NHS waiting lists. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some clinics were offering inaccurate diagnoses via video calls.
Usually, in the know will be sent a questionnaire to complete by themselves, but also by an immediate family member or partner. The questionnaire must be returned prior to when an appointment can be scheduled.
Signs and symptoms
If you are constantly losing your keys, struggle to complete work tasks or are constantly interrupted by friends or family members, it could be a sign of ADHD. This condition is common and affects up to 8.4% of children and 2.5 percent of adults, and can have a major impact on both your personal and professional life. But, many don't know their symptoms are due to ADHD and don't seek help because they don't know what to do. They may try to self-manage but this can be difficult.
There is no physical or medical test for ADHD. A certified mental health professional will use a variety of information to diagnose the condition, such as the symptom list and standardized rating scales. They also make use of information from other people who are familiar with the person, such as their past and current functioning, as well as information from those closest to them. Based on the nature of the person's problems and the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities tests may be conducted.
It's important that a healthcare professional rule out co-occurring conditions such as depression and anxiety in some people suffering from ADHD. A healthcare professional will typically check for the presence of other medical disorders that can lead to similar symptoms, for example, the thyroid disorder or obesity.
Doctors are not experts and cannot diagnose ADHD However, they can refer you to specialists, such as a Priory hospital or wellbeing center for an assessment. The assessment will take place in a clinic and you as well as your partner, parents or any other family members close to you will be asked to fill out questionnaires. These questionnaires 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 psychiatrist or psychologist who has experience diagnosing ADHD will conduct the assessment. They will take a full history, make detailed notes and discuss with you your behaviour in various situations. This includes at work, at school and at home. You will be asked for the rating of your ADHD symptoms and to complete tests, such as a test of cognitive functioning.
Diagnosis
You should first talk to your GP if you suspect that you or someone else you know may have ADHD. They might be able to refer you to a private specialist like psychologists or psychiatrists who is experienced in diagnosing adults with ADHD. You may also contact the experts directly to schedule an assessment. Before you attend your appointment with the clinician you'll need to complete an online questionnaire regarding the symptoms you've been experiencing. You should also bring information about your family health history, as well as any prior psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is crucial to be forthcoming about your current symptoms to the physician, as you will need to provide complete medical history to ensure an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will look over your family medical history and your medical history, and your current symptoms. The doctor will utilize this information to determine if 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, could be causing your symptoms.
Depending on your situation it is possible that you will require additional neuropsychological, psychological, or testing for learning disabilities. This will help you rule out other conditions that could cause ADHD symptoms. For example, some people with ADHD may also be suffering from other disabilities, such as autism or learning disabilities which may have similar symptoms to ADHD. It's also a good idea to ask your insurance company for recommendations on specialists who are able to diagnose adults with ADHD. You can also call an organization that offers support for adults suffering from ADHD and ask for recommendations.
Many people diagnosed with ADHD feel it's an exhilarating feeling to finally understand the reason they've had to struggle in their lives. It isn't easy to manage the emotions that accompany an diagnosis. It is essential to receive a correct diagnosis from a doctor who has experience treating ADHD. This will enable you to move on to manage your ADHD.
Treatment
The first step to getting a diagnosis is to find an expert in healthcare who is experienced in working with adults with ADHD. This may be a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist who is knowledgeable about the condition and has treated patients in the past. You can also request your family physician to refer you for an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.
A private evaluation of ADHD differs slightly from a regular psychiatric visit because it includes a structured interview that will examine your symptoms and the way they impact your daily life. Be prepared to discuss your difficulties with hyperactivity and attention at work, in relationships, hobbies, and school. You'll have to bring an inventory of your symptoms and how these have affected your life over the years as well as any other mental health issues you might have experienced.
If the healthcare professional conducting your assessment believes you may have ADHD, they will assess you against the DSM V criteria for ADHD. They will look at the list of symptoms that you've given and ask questions to determine if you exhibit at least six characteristics (symptoms) which have been present throughout your life for at least 12 months.
The healthcare professional will prepare an account, and then explain the results of your examination to you. If they conclude you don't meet the criteria for ADHD they will explain the reason and suggest a new diagnosis that can better explain your issues.
Once you've got a diagnosis it's crucial to discuss your treatment options with your clinician. They will be able to recommend therapy and medications that may aid in managing your symptoms. There are many treatments that are specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD. These include cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and acceptance commitment therapy, and mindfulness.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief, especially for adults. You may find that it clarifies a lot about the reasons why you've been struggling in the past and that can be liberating and empowering. It's important to remember, however, that many people suffer from self-stigma following being diagnosed. Therapy, specifically narrative therapy, can be helpful 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 receive a quick ADHD diagnosis through a phone or online questionnaire have emerged as mental health problems are becoming less stigmatized. These services can cut down on the time needed to locate an acupuncturist and wait for an assessment which, in turn, reduces the cost of getting treatment. These services are also faster and easier to navigate than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which may feel like a maze at times.
They are not without critics. In the last few months, there were numerous reports and documentaries claiming private clinics of ignoring ADHD. One such documentary, produced by BBC's Panorama was named The ADHD Scandal. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, however the original angle remains the same. Patients seeking private ADHD diagnoses are being exploited.
Psychiatry is a complex field and it's not uncommon for people to present with symptoms that aren't caused by ADHD. It is crucial to find a psychiatrist with a thorough understanding of adult ADHD and who is an expert in the diagnosis. A complete assessment involves gathering information from your relatives, friends and school reports. It could also comprise a pre-assessment form. Your clinician will then use these results to determine if you have ADHD and create a holistic treatment plan, which could include medication or psychotherapy.
You should also consult your GP to see if they are willing to sign a shared-care agreement with you and with your psychologist prior to seeking an individual ADHD diagnosis. You will only be required to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. Some doctors will not take this approach It's a good idea to verify before paying for an assessment.
The right support system in place can help you deal with the symptoms of ADHD, and improve your quality of life. Visit our ADHD treatment page for more information about how we can assist you. You can also request an anonymous, no-cost phone consultation with one of our therapists to determine if we're the right fit for your needs.