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. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some clinics were giving incorrect diagnoses through video calls.
Usually a person will be given a questionnaire to complete by themselves, but also by an immediate family member or partner. It is necessary to return the form prior to an appointment can be scheduled.
Signs and symptoms
If you keep losing your keys, find it difficult to complete work tasks or find yourself interrupted frequently by friends or family members It could be an indication of ADHD. This condition is common and affects up to 8.4 percent of children and 2.5 percent of adults, and can have a huge impact on personal and professional life. But, many do not realize that their symptoms are due to ADHD and do not seek help because they don't know how to do. Often they'll try to self-manage however this can be frustrating and may not always be effective.
There is no medical or physical test for ADHD. A qualified mental health professional will employ diverse sources to diagnose the condition, including symptom lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They will also use information from other people who are familiar with the person, such as their past and present functioning, as well as information from those closest to them. Depending on the nature of the individual's issues and the nature of the problem, additional neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities tests may be conducted.
It is crucial that a healthcare professional check for co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and depression in some people suffering from ADHD. A healthcare professional will look for any other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. For instance, a thyroid disorder or weight increase.
Doctors are not able to diagnose ADHD and are unable to refer you to a specialist. They may refer you to an Priory hospital, or a wellbeing center for an assessment. When you go privately for an assessment, it will be conducted in a clinic and involve filling in questionnaires with your partner or parents, as well as others who know you well. These questionnaires are based upon the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its 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 an extensive background, make detailed notes and discuss your behavior in different environments with you. This could include at school, at home and at work. You will be asked for a rating of your ADHD symptoms and also to take tests, including a test of cognitive function.
Diagnosis
If you think that you or someone you know suffers from ADHD the first step is to visit your GP. They might be able to refer you to a private specialist like psychologist or psychiatrist who is skilled in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD. You can also contact experts directly to schedule an assessment. You will be asked to fill out an application form prior to your appointment. You should also provide information about your family's mental health history and any previous psychiatric treatment you have received.
It is important that you are honest with your physician about your health issues, as they will require a complete history to make an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will review your family, personal, and psychiatric medical history and also your current symptoms and concerns. They will then analyze this information to determine if you have ADHD and how severe your symptoms are. They will also look into whether other mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, 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 determine other issues that can cause the symptoms of ADHD. For example, some people who suffer from ADHD may also be suffering from other disorders of learning or autism, which can have similar symptoms to ADHD. Asking your insurance company about professionals qualified to diagnose ADHD in adults is a good idea. You can also call an organization that offers support for people who suffer from ADHD and request referrals.
Many people diagnosed with ADHD find that it is a relief to finally find out the reason they have been struggling in their lives. However it can be a challenge to cope with the emotions that accompany being diagnosed. It is essential to receive a proper diagnosis from an experienced doctor to take the next steps towards managing your ADHD and getting the most out of your life.
Treatment
Finding a doctor who has expertise in working with adults who have ADHD is the first step in getting a proper diagnosis. This could be a therapist, psychiatrist or psychologist with experience treating adults with ADHD. You could also ask your family doctor to refer you to a nurse practitioner or an ADHD assessment.
A private evaluation of ADHD differs slightly from a regular psychiatric appointment due to a structured interview that will evaluate your symptoms and how they impact your everyday life. It is important to be prepared to talk about your issues with attention and hyperactivity in your relationships, work, hobbies and school. You'll also need to keep a record of your symptoms and how they have impacted your life over time, along with any other mental health issues you've had.
If the healthcare professional conducting the assessment believes that you be suffering from ADHD The doctor will evaluate you based on the DSM V criteria. They will ask you questions and analyze the symptoms you've listed to determine if you exhibit six characteristics (symptoms). These traits should be present for a minimum of a year.
The healthcare professional will create an report and then explain to you the results of their assessment. If they find that you don't have ADHD, they will say the reasons why they believe you don't meet the criteria and suggest another diagnosis that might better explain your difficulties.
It is essential to discuss the options for treatment with your physician once you have a diagnosis. They'll be able to recommend therapies and medication that can assist you in managing your symptoms. There are many therapies specifically designed for adults with ADHD. These include cognitive-behavioral (CBT), acceptance commitment therapy and mindfulness.
It can be a massive relief to receive a diagnosis of ADHD particularly as an adult. It could be that it clarifies a lot about the reasons you've struggled in the past, and it can be empowering and freeing. But, it's equally important to be aware that many adults struggle deeply with self-esteem issues when they are diagnosed. Therapy, especially narrative therapy, can be beneficial for people who struggle to tell their own stories differently and alter the way they judge themselves.
Support
Online services that allow people to get a quick ADHD diagnosis via a phone or online questionnaire have been gaining popularity as mental health website problems are becoming less stigmatised. These services can save the time it takes to locate an acupuncturist and wait for an assessment which can cut down the cost of seeking treatment. These services are also quicker and more user-friendly than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which can be like a maze.
There are plenty of critics. In recent months, there's been a wave of documentaries and stories accusing private diagnostic clinics of knowingly 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. Patients seeking private ADHD diagnoses are being exploited.
The field of psychiatry can be a bit complex, and it's not uncommon for patients to exhibit symptoms that are not actually caused by ADHD. This is why it's crucial to make sure you are assessed by a psychiatrist who is an expert in adult ADHD and has a comprehensive knowledge of how it manifests in adults. A full assessment will involve gathering information from your family and friends, including school reports as well as an assessment questionnaire prior to the test. Your clinician will then use the results to determine if you have ADHD and develop a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include psychotherapy or medication.
It's also worth contacting your GP prior to seeking an official diagnosis for ADHD to determine if they'll sign a shared care agreement with you and your psychologist. You'll only need to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. It is recommended to consult your doctor before you spend money on an assessment.
Having the right support system in place can help you manage the symptoms of ADHD, and enhance your quality of life. If you're ready to take that first step towards a better life go to our ADHD treatment page to learn more about how we can assist you. You can also request a confidential, no-cost phone consultation with one of our therapists to determine if we're the right solution for you.