ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are able to take advantage of patients who feel let-down by the NHS waiting list. However, an investigation by BBC Panorama investigation found that some clinics are distributing inaccurate diagnoses via video calls.
Usually a person will be given a questionnaire to complete by themselves and also by someone close to them, such as a family member or partner. This will need to be returned prior to when an appointment is scheduled.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD can be the reason for your frequent key loss, inability to complete tasks at work, or be interrupted by your family or friends. This condition can affect up to 8.4 percent of children and 2.5% adults. It can have a major impact on both your personal and professional lives. Many people don't realize that their symptoms are due to ADHD and they aren't seeking treatment because they don't know what to do. They may attempt to manage themselves but this can be frustrating.
There is no physical or medical test for ADHD. A certified mental health professional will utilize a variety of sources to diagnose the condition, such as symptom lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They will also use information from people who know the person, including their past and current functioning and 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.
Some people suffering from ADHD can also have co-occurring illnesses, like depression and anxiety, so it's important for a doctor to rule them out. A healthcare professional will test for any other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. For example thyroid issues or weight gain.
Doctors are not experts and are unable to diagnose ADHD however, they can refer you to a specialist like a Priory hospital or wellbeing centre for an assessment. If you choose to go on your own the test will be in a clinic and involve filling in questionnaires with you, your parents or partners, and other people who know you well. These questionnaires are based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, as laid out by the American Psychiatric Association in its 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 detailed note of your history, record it in detail and discuss with you your behaviour in various situations. This could include at school, at home and in the workplace. You will be asked for an assessment of your ADHD symptoms and also to take tests, like tests of cognitive functioning.
Diagnosis
You should first consult your GP in the event that you suspect you or someone else you know may be suffering from ADHD. They might be able to refer you to a private specialist like a psychiatrist or a psychologist who is skilled in diagnosing adults who suffer from ADHD. You can also reach out to specialists directly to schedule an assessment. Prior to your appointment with the therapist you'll need to fill in an assessment form regarding the symptoms that you have been experiencing. Additionally, you will need to bring information about your family mental health history as well as any prior psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is important to be honest about your issues with the physician, as you will need to give complete medical history to ensure an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will examine your family medical history and your medical history, as well as your current symptoms. They will then utilize this information to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and how severe your symptoms are. They will also look into whether other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, could be causing your symptoms.
Depending on the situation, you may require additional psychological or learning disabilities neuropsychological testing. This will help rule out other causes that could cause the symptoms of ADHD. For instance, some people with ADHD may also be suffering from other disorders of learning or autism that can exhibit similar symptoms to ADHD. Inquiring with your insurance company for specialists who are qualified to diagnose ADHD in adults is a great idea. You can also contact an organization that here offers support for people who suffer from ADHD and request recommendations.
Many people diagnosed with ADHD find that it is an immense relief to find out the reason they've been struggling throughout their lives. It isn't easy to face the emotions that come with an diagnosis. It is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis from a qualified professional to take the next steps towards managing your ADHD and making the most of your life.
Treatment
The first step in getting a diagnosis is to find a healthcare professional who has experience dealing with adults suffering from ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist who is familiar with the condition and has treated other patients in the past. Alternatively, you could ask your family doctor to refer you to an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.
A private assessment of ADHD differs slightly from a regular psychiatric appointment because it is a structured interview that will assess your symptoms and the way they impact your everyday life. Prepare to discuss your difficulties with hyperactivity and attention in your relationships, at work, hobbies, and school. You will also need to bring a list of your symptoms and how they have affected your life over time, along with any other mental health issues you've experienced.
If the healthcare professional conducting your assessment thinks you may have ADHD they will evaluate 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 have at least six signs (symptoms) that have been present in your life for at least 12 months.
The healthcare professional will prepare an account, and then explain the results of your test to you. 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 important to discuss treatment options with your doctor after you've been diagnosed. They'll be able to recommend therapies and medication that can aid in managing your symptoms. There are a variety of treatments that are specifically designed for adults who have ADHD. These include cognitive-behavioral (CBT) acceptance commitment therapy and mindfulness.
It can be a huge relief to get a diagnosis of ADHD, especially as an adult. You may find that it clarifies a lot about the reasons why you've struggled in the past, and it can be liberating and empowering. It's also important to keep in mind that many adults struggle with self-esteem issues when they are 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 get a quick ADHD diagnosis through a phone or online questionnaire have emerged as mental health issues are less stigmatised. These services will cut down on the time needed to find a psychiatrist and wait for an assessment which, in turn, reduces the cost of treatment. These services are also more efficient and more user-friendly than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which can be like a maze.
However, they're not without their critics. In recent months there have been numerous stories and documentaries accusing private clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. One of the documentaries, produced by BBC's Panorama, was called The ADHD Scandal. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, but the original premise remains the same. Those who seek private ADHD diagnoses are being exploited.
Psychiatry can be a complex field and it is not common for people suffering from ADHD to have symptoms that aren't ADHD. It's crucial to find a psychiatrist with a thorough understanding of adult ADHD and who is a specialist in the field of diagnosis. A thorough assessment requires collecting information from your relatives, friends and school reports. It could also comprise an assessment form prior to your visit. Your doctor will then use these findings to determine whether you have ADHD and formulate a holistic treatment plan, which could include psychotherapy or medication.
It's also worth contacting your GP before seeking an individual diagnosis for ADHD and to determine if they will sign a shared care contract with you and your psychologist. You will only be required to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. You should check with your GP before spending money on an assessment.
A supportive system in place can help you control the symptoms of ADHD and improve the quality of your life. If you're ready for the first step toward a better future visit our ADHD treatment page to find out more about how we can help. You can also book an initial, free, confidential phone consultation with our therapists to see whether we're the right choice for you.