Getting a Private Diagnosis For ADHD
People suffering from ADHD are often unable to communicate with their supervisors, coworkers, and teachers. This can make it hard for them to be successful at work and school.
The GP can refer patients to private practitioners who are able to conduct an ADHD assessment. It is essential to check with your GP to see if they're willing to sign a shared-care contract prior to beginning.
Assessment
In the UK due to the long NHS waiting times, many people with ADHD prefer to have their test done and medications prescribed privately. However as this Panorama investigation shows that not all private clinics are regulated and could be giving incorrect diagnoses.
Psychiatrists are the only medical professionals able to officially diagnose ADHD and prescribe medications for adults. Counsellors and other mental health professionals cannot diagnose ADHD.
The majority of private assessment providers will ask you to complete a series of questionnaires and forms prior to your appointment, which they'll review in advance of your meeting. It is important to take these with you, and in the event of a need additional information or documents that might be helpful. If you were recommended by your GP to them, it is important to bring these documents along with you.
After your psychiatrist has completed your questionnaire, he or she will schedule an appointment to discuss the results and their findings. Bring the list of your symptoms (and any documents) since this information will assist them in making an informed diagnosis. They will also ask you about your current situation and how ADHD has affected you so far. They may suggest that you talk to a close friend or family member about your problems and the impact they can have on your daily routine.
During this period your psychiatrist will discuss whether or not they believe you may be suffering from ADHD and the best treatment options for you. If they believe you have ADHD you will be provided with an official report that outlines their findings. They will talk with you if they think you suffer from ADHD and determine whether it is best to discuss this diagnosis with your GP. This means that both parties will be on the exact same page regarding your condition, treatment and management. You should discuss this report with your GP in the event that you would like them to prescribe medication as part of an Shared care agreement with your psychiatrist. You should also inform DVLA of the fact that your driving abilities is affected by ADHD.
Diagnosis
It is important to understand what happens during the private diagnosis process if you're considering it. You'll likely see a psychiatrist or psychologist for the assessment, since they are the only healthcare professionals qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK. The test will include an extensive examination of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. Your mental health professional will also ask questions about your family history as well as any other issues you're dealing with.
Your physician will assess your present symptoms and compare them to the criteria for ADHD in adults set by the American Psychiatric Association. He or she will, for instance examine if you are having difficulties paying attention or following instructions and if your hyperactivity makes you struggle with tasks. Your specialist will also need to know whether you have had trouble with these symptoms since your childhood. This could mean asking your parents or teachers for details about the time when these issues first started to manifest.
The specialist will conduct tests such as QbCheck to determine if you suffer from ADHD symptoms. He or she will also conduct a medical interview and ask you to take several other tests. This could take as long as 2 sessions.
During the interview, your specialist will ask you to provide examples of how your symptoms affect your daily life. The psychologist or psychiatrist will also review your family background and any other issues you're experiencing like depression.
It's important to choose the best therapist for your evaluation. A reputable clinic like Harley Psychiatrists, in London, will conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine if you suffer from ADHD. They will also offer various treatment options that are tailored to your needs.
There is a concern that certain private clinics are diagnosing patients with ADHD too quickly, without doing a thorough assessment. The BBC's Panorama programme recently exposed an office that diagnosed a patient as having ADHD following a video conference and gave him powerful medications.
It is important to remember that an individual diagnosis isn't valid in the NHS because your doctor will not sign a shared care agreement document to transfer your medication treatment to the NHS. This is because most GPs do not have the expertise, knowledge, or experience to determine ADHD.
Medication
The process of obtaining an adult diagnosis of ADHD is complicated and requires gatekeepers. The attitude and knowledge of these individuals can make or break the capacity of help seekers to access treatment.
If your GP is unwilling to refer you for an NHS ADHD assessment or you are not satisfied with the waiting time, then you may consider an assessment through a private doctor. Private assessments can cost up to PS800 and require you to fill out questionnaires, an interview with a psychiatrist and a psychiatric report. Some people find the cost prohibitive, but you can get an agreement for shared-care with your doctor that permits you to pay NHS prescription charges and see an individual physician for treatment.
There is a concern however, that certain private practitioners over-diagnose ADHD especially through online clinics. In the recent BBC Panorama "expose", a number cases were highlighted in which online assessments were not being conducted correctly. People who are dependent on alcohol or drugs often show symptoms similar to ADHD. These symptoms are referred to as comorbid and can include depression or anxiety.
It is important to have an evaluation and diagnosis for psychiatric issues prior to taking stimulants (methylphenidate and amphetamines) for the condition. These drugs are classified as class B and could cause serious health issues in the body if they are not taken in accordance with prescription. They also carry a high risk of addiction.
Many people with an history of alcohol or drug use can ameliorate their symptoms by adjusting their environment, delegating tasks and taking assistants. It is important to note that these actions do not replace the need for a formal diagnosis or mental health assessment for the purposes of the Equality Act.
Counsellors and psychologists can provide an ADHD assessment but they are not able prescribe medication. In certain cases, psychiatrists or psychiatric nurses may be able to provide this assessment however only if the individual is properly trained in the process of diagnosing and is licensed as a medical professional.
Some individuals are not diagnosed with ADHD because the GP feels that they don't meet the criteria or is believed that a different diagnosis is more suitable to explain the person's problems. It's not an issue, but it can be a source of frustration when symptoms are causing distress or affect your everyday life.
Therapy
A private diagnosis of ADHD doesn't mean that therapists will be less strict or break the rules than if they worked within NHS guidelines. Patients who are treated privately still need to undergo a comprehensive assessment which must be conducted in accordance with the highest standards of practice and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines. If a private healthcare provider is found to have an overdiagnosed ADHD, they are likely to be disciplined by appropriate authorities.
Many adults with ADHD benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as well as mindfulness practices. Therapists collaborate with their clients to overcome challenges and develop strategies which can improve life and reduce the effects of ADHD symptoms. This can be done in person or via video conferencing, based on the location of the client.
CBT is designed to identify negative habits and to teach healthy coping strategies. These include procrastination, poor time management, and difficulty focus and are all symptoms of adult ADHD. Therapists will help clients learn from strategies to lessen their symptoms, while also assisting them in building an environment that is supportive of them.
Many adults who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD are relieved to finally be aware of the cause behind their issues. However, they might find that their diagnosis triggers lots of emotions that are difficult to manage. There are numerous support groups for those who require them.
diagnosis of adhd in adults can provide a treatment plan for ADHD symptoms that incorporates medication and psychotherapy. Medication can help to improve the concentration of a patient, stop them from losing their belongings and allow them to sit still for longer periods of time to learn new skills and listen attentively. In some instances, a psychiatrist may prescribe stimulants, such as methylphenidate for people who are experiencing ADHD symptoms.