ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers can benefit patients who feel disappointed by the NHS waiting list. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that certain clinics were providing inaccurate diagnoses via video calls.
Usually a person will be given an application form to fill out on their own, as well as by a close family member or partner. It is essential to complete this form prior to when an appointment can take place.
Signs and symptoms
If you keep getting lost in your keys, struggle to finish tasks at work or find yourself interrupted frequently by friends or family members, it could be a sign of ADHD. This condition can affect up to 8.4 percent of children and 2.5 percentage of adults. It can have a major impact on both personal and professional lives. Many people do not realize that their symptoms are due to ADHD and don't seek assistance because they aren't sure what to do. Many times, they'll attempt to manage themselves, but this can be frustrating and may not always be effective.
There is no physical or medical test for ADHD. A certified mental health professional will utilize diverse data to determine the severity of the condition, such as the symptom list and standardized rating scales. They will also use information from people who are familiar with the person, including their previous and current functioning, as well as information from those closest to them. Depending on the nature of the person's issues, additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests may also be conducted.
Some people suffering from ADHD can also have co-occurring conditions, such as depression and anxiety, so it's important for a healthcare professional to rule them out. A healthcare professional will usually check for the presence of other medical disorders that can cause similar symptoms, like a thyroid disorder or obesity.
The GP does not diagnose ADHD and are unable to refer you to an expert. They could refer you to an Priory hospital, or a wellbeing centre to conduct an assessment. If you visit a private clinic for an assessment, it will be conducted in a medical setting and will involve filling out questionnaires with your parents or partners, and others who know you well. These questionnaires are based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as described in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).
The assessment process is performed by a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist, who specialises in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will carry out an exhaustive investigation, record your history and discuss your behaviour in different situations with you. This will include at school, at home and at work. You will be asked to assess your ADHD symptoms throughout the time of a week, and complete tests such as a 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 might recommend you to a private physician such as a psychiatrist or psychologist who is certified to diagnose adults with ADHD. You can also reach out to specialists directly to set up an appointment. You will be asked to fill out an assessment form prior to your appointment. You will also need to provide information about your family's mental health history and any prior psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is important that you be honest with your clinician about your health issues, as they will require an extensive history in order to make an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will look over the medical history of your family members as well as your own medical history, and current symptoms. They will then use this information to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and how severe your symptoms are. They will also consider whether your symptoms might be caused by other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
Depending on the situation you may require additional mental testing, such as learning disabilities or neuropsychological testing. This can help identify other conditions that could cause ADHD symptoms. For instance, some people with ADHD might also suffer from other disabilities, such as autism or learning disabilities, which can have similar symptoms to ADHD. It is recommended to ask your insurance company for recommendations of experts who are qualified to identify adults suffering from ADHD. You can also call an organization that offers support for adults suffering from ADHD and ask for recommendations.
Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD are happy to realize the reason they've struggled in their lives. However, it can be difficult to cope with the emotions that accompany a diagnosis. It is important to get a proper diagnosis from an experienced professional to take the next steps towards managing your ADHD and getting the most enjoyment from your life.
Treatment
The first step to getting an accurate diagnosis is to locate a healthcare professional who is experienced in dealing with adults suffering from ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, therapist or psychologist who is experienced in treating people suffering from ADHD. You can also ask your family doctor to refer you to a nurse practitioner or an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment for ADHD is different from a regular psychiatric appointment due to the fact that it involves an organized interview to evaluate your symptoms and how they affect you in your daily life. Come prepared to discuss your struggles with attention and hyperactivity in your relationships, at work and hobbies, as well as in school. You will be required to bring the symptoms you are experiencing and how they have affected your life over the years and any other mental health issues you might have experienced.
If the healthcare professional who is conducting your assessment believes you might have ADHD they will evaluate you against the DSM V criteria for ADHD. They will use the list of symptoms that you've given and ask questions to determine whether or not you exhibit at least six traits (symptoms) that have been present in your life for at least a year.
The healthcare professional will write a report and explain to you the results of their assessment. If they decide that you don't suffer from ADHD They will explain the reasons why they believe that you do not meet the criteria and suggest a different diagnosis that could better explain your issues.
If you've been diagnosed it's crucial to discuss your treatment options with your doctor. They'll recommend treatments and medications that will aid in managing your symptoms. There are a variety of therapies 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 great relief, especially for adults. It could be that it clarifies a lot about why you have had difficulties in the past, and that can be liberating and empowering. But, it's equally important to remember that a lot of adults struggle with self-stigma when they are diagnosed. They can benefit from therapy, specifically narrative therapy, to discover how to tell their story in a different way and to change how they perceive themselves.
Support
Online services that permit people to receive a fast ADHD diagnosis via a telephone or online questionnaire have emerged as mental health problems are becoming less stigmatized. These services can cut down on the time needed to locate a psychiatrist and wait for an assessment which, in turn, reduces the cost of seeking treatment. These services are also faster and more user-friendly than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which can be like a maze.
However, they aren't without criticism. In recent months there have been many stories and documentaries accusing private clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of a BBC Panorama documentary. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, but the original premise remains the same. Those who seek private ADHD diagnoses are being abused.
Psychiatry is a complex field and it's not unusual to see people suffer from symptoms that are not actually caused by ADHD. It is crucial to find a psychiatrist with an in-depth understanding of adult ADHD and who is an expert in the diagnosis. A complete assessment involves gathering information from your family and friends as well as school reports and an assessment questionnaire prior to the test. Your clinician will use these findings to determine if you have ADHD and then develop an overall treatment plan that may include therapy or medication.
You should also consult your GP to see whether they're willing to sign a shared care agreement with you and your psychologist add diagnosis as an adult before seeking the private ADHD diagnosis. You'll only need to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. It is recommended to consult your physician prior to spending money on an assessment.
The right support system in place can help you manage the symptoms of ADHD, and improve the quality of your life. If you're ready to take the first step toward a better future visit our ADHD treatment page to learn more about how we can assist you. You can also request a confidential, free phone consultation with one of our therapists to determine if we're the best fit for your needs.