ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are capitalising on patients who feel disappointed by the stifling NHS waiting lists. However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation found that some clinics are distributing unreliable diagnoses through video calls.
A questionnaire will be sent to the person and they may also request the partner or family member complete it. It is necessary to return this form before an appointment can take place.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD can be the cause of your frequent loss of focus and inability to finish tasks at work, or be interrupted by family or friends. This condition can affect as much as 8.4% children and 2.5% adults. It can have a major impact on both your personal and professional lives. Many people aren't aware that their symptoms result from ADHD and they aren't seeking treatment because they don't know what to do. They may try to self-manage but this can be difficult.
There is no medical or physical test for ADHD but a trained mental health care professional will use information from a variety of sources to determine diagnosis, such as symptoms checklists and standardized behavior rating scales, as well as a comprehensive background of the person's previous and present functioning, as well as information from others who are familiar with them. Depending on the severity and nature of the problem, additional psycho-educational, learning disabilities or neuropsychological tests may be conducted.
Some people suffering from ADHD might also be suffering from co-occurring illnesses, like depression and anxiety and depression, so it's crucial for a healthcare professional to rule these out. A healthcare professional will look for other medical disorders which can cause similar symptoms. For example thyroid disorders or weight increase.
GPs are not specialists and they cannot diagnose ADHD however, they may refer you to specialists, such as a Priory hospital or wellbeing centre to conduct an assessment. If you choose to go on your own for an assessment, it will be in a clinical setting and will involve filling out questionnaires with your partner or parents, as well as other people who know you well. These questionnaires are based on diagnostic criteria for ADHD as described in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5).
A psychologist or psychiatrist who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD will carry out the assessment. They will take a detailed note of your history, record it in detail and discuss with you your behaviour in various environments. This will include at school, at work and at home. You will be asked for the rating of your ADHD symptoms and to take tests, like an assessment of cognitive functioning.
Diagnosis
You should first consult your GP in the event that you suspect you or someone else you know might have ADHD. They might be able to refer you to a private specialist such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, who is trained in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD. You can also contact specialists directly to set up an appointment. Prior to your appointment with the clinician you'll need to fill in an assessment form regarding the symptoms that you have been experiencing. Additionally, you will need to provide information about your family's health history, as well as any previous psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is important to be honest with your clinician regarding your symptoms, since the doctor will require an entire history to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will look over your personal, family, and psychiatric medical history along with 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 at whether your symptoms might be due to other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
Based on your specific situation depending on your situation, you may require additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. This can help to identify other causes that could cause the symptoms of ADHD. Certain people with ADHD might also have autism or other learning disabilities, that can trigger similar symptoms. It's recommended to ask your insurance company for recommendations about experts who are qualified to diagnose adults with ADHD. You can also contact the local support group for adults with ADHD and request referrals.
Many people who are diagnosed with ADHD feel it's an exhilarating feeling to finally find out the reason they've had to struggle in their lives. It can be difficult to deal the emotions that come with the diagnosis. It is essential to receive a proper diagnosis from a qualified professional, so that you can move forward in managing your ADHD and making the most of your life.
Treatment
Locating a healthcare professional who has experience working with adults who have ADHD is the first step to get the right diagnosis. This could be a therapist, psychiatrist or psychologist who has experience treating adults with ADHD. Alternately, you can request your family physician to refer you to an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.
A private assessment of ADHD differs from a typical psychiatric consultation because it includes a structured interview that will assess your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. You should come prepared to talk about your problems with hyperactivity and attention at work, relationships or hobbies, as well as school. You will also need to provide a list of your symptoms and how they have impacted your life over time, and any other mental health issues you've experienced.
If the health professional conducting your examination believes that you might be suffering from ADHD The doctor will evaluate you based on the DSM V criteria. They will take the list of symptoms you've listed and ask questions to determine if you have at least six traits (symptoms) which have been present in your life for at least 12 months.
The healthcare professional will write an account, and then explain 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 can better explain your issues.
After you've been diagnosed it's important to discuss your treatment options with your clinician. They will be able to suggest therapy and medication that can assist you in managing your symptoms. There are a variety of therapies designed specifically for adults suffering from ADHD that include cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT) as well as acceptance and mindfulness therapy.
how to get an adult adhd diagnosis can be a major relief to receive a diagnosis of ADHD, especially as an adult. You might find that it clarifies a lot about the reasons you've had difficulties in the past, and that can be liberating and empowering. It is important to remember that many people suffer from self-stigma following being diagnosed. Individuals with these issues can benefit from therapy, especially narrative therapy, to discover how to tell their story in a different way and change the way they perceive themselves.
Support
Online services that permit people to receive a fast ADHD diagnosis by phone or online questionnaire are becoming more popular as mental health issues are becoming less stigmatised. These services can cut down on the cost and time required for treatment by reducing the time required to find a psychiatrist wait for an assessment, and then schedule an appointment. They also have the benefit of being faster and simpler than navigating the NHS referral and assessment process, which can seem like an endless maze.
They're not without criticism. In the last few months, there have been numerous stories and documentaries accusing private clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of a BBC Panorama documentary. The title was later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Exposed, however the initial angle was the same: people who seek a private ADHD diagnosis are being manipulated by.
Psychiatry can be a complex discipline and it's common for people suffering from ADHD to have symptoms that aren't ADHD. It is therefore crucial to ensure that you're assessed by a psychiatrist who specialises in adult ADHD, and has a comprehensive knowledge of how it manifests in adults. A full assessment involves collecting data from your relatives, friends and school reports. It may also include an assessment form that you fill out prior to the time. Your doctor will then use these results to determine if you have ADHD and create a holistic treatment plan, which may include psychotherapy or medication.
You should also consult your GP to determine whether they're willing sign a shared-care agreement with you and your psychologist prior to seeking the private ADHD diagnosis. This means you'll only need to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. Some doctors will not do this, so it's best to confirm this before paying for an assessment.
A good support system can assist you in managing ADHD symptoms and improve your life quality. If you're ready to take the first step towards a better future go to our ADHD treatment page to learn more about the ways we can assist. You can also request an initial, free, confidential phone consultation with our therapists to determine whether we're the best choice for you.