Getting a Private Diagnosis For ADHD
Communication can be a challenge for those who suffer from ADHD, especially with co-workers and supervisors. This makes it difficult for them to be successful at school and work.
The GP can refer patients to private providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment. It's crucial to ensure that your GP will sign a shared care agreement before you proceed.
The Assessment
In the UK, many adults with ADHD opt to have their assessments and prescriptions for medication privately because of lengthy NHS waiting times. However as this Panorama investigation shows that not all private clinics are regulated and could be giving incorrect diagnoses.
Psychiatrists are the sole medical professionals able to officially diagnose ADHD and prescribe medications for adults. Counsellors and other mental health professionals are not able to diagnose ADHD.
Most private assessment providers will ask you to complete a series of questionnaires and forms prior to your appointment, which they review in advance of your meeting. You should bring these questionnaires and forms with you, as well as any other documents or information that could be useful. For instance, if were referred to them by your GP it is important to bring these along as well.
After your psychiatrist has reviewed the questionnaires, they will arrange an appointment to discuss your results and their findings. Bring a list of your symptoms (and any documentation) in order to aid in determining a diagnosis. They will also inquire about your present life and how ADHD has affected you in the past. They may also suggest speaking to a family member or close friend about your issues and how they impact on your daily routine.
During this period, your psychiatrist will talk with you about whether they believe you may have ADHD and what the best treatment options are for you. If they believe you have ADHD, you will receive an written report describing their findings. They will talk with you if they think you suffer from ADHD and determine whether it is better to discuss this diagnosis with your GP. This way, both parties can be on the the same page with regards to your condition, treatment, and management. You should discuss the report with your GP in the event that you would like them to prescribe medication as part of a Shared care agreement with your psychiatrist. It is also important to inform the DVLA of the fact that your driving abilities is affected by ADHD.
Diagnosis
It's crucial to know what goes on during the private diagnosis process if you're thinking about it. In the course of your assessment, you'll likely see a psychiatrist or a psychologist because they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK competent to diagnose ADHD. The assessment will include an in-depth review of your symptoms and how they affect your life. Your mental health professional will ask questions about your family history and any other issues you're dealing with.
Your doctor will compare your symptoms with the criteria outlined by the American Psychiatric Association for ADHD in adults. For instance, he or will determine if you are having trouble paying attention or following directions. You will also be assessed whether your hyperactivity causes difficulties with completing tasks. Your specialist will need to know if you have been suffering from these symptoms since the age of a child. This could mean asking your teachers or parents for information about the first time these symptoms started to appear.
The specialist will use various tests to help identify whether you are suffering from ADHD, such as the QbCheck. He or she will also conduct a medical interview and ask you to complete various other tests. It could take up to two sessions.
During the interview, your doctor will ask you to give examples of how your issues affect your daily life. The psychiatrist or psychologist may ask about your family history and other issues you face, such as depression.
It is essential to select the most appropriate therapist for your assessment. A reputable clinic, such as Harley Psychiatrists in London, will conduct a thorough examination to determine whether you suffer from ADHD. They will also offer you an array of treatment options that are adapted to your individual needs.
Private providers could be diagnosing ADHD patients too quickly, without thorough examination. BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a clinic which identified a patient with ADHD after a video-call and offered him powerful medications.
It is important to remember that an individual diagnosis isn't valid in the NHS, as your GP will not sign a shared-care agreement to transfer your medication to the NHS. This is because the majority of GPs do not have the expertise or knowledge to diagnose ADHD.
Medication
The process for getting an adult diagnosis of ADHD is a complex one that involves gatekeepers. These people's knowledge and attitudes can determine a person's ability to get treatment.
If your GP is unable to refer you for an NHS ADHD assessment or if you are not happy with the waiting time then you might consider the option of a private diagnosis. Private assessments can cost as much as PS800 and require filling out questionnaires, an appointment with a psychiatrist, and a mental health report. The cost may be prohibitive for some people, but it is possible to get a shared care agreement with your doctor that allows you to pay for the NHS prescription fee and visit a private clinician for medication.
There is a concern, however, that some private providers are over-diagnosing ADHD especially through online clinics. In an upcoming BBC Panorama "expose", there were several instances in which online assessments were not conducted properly. In addition, people who are addicted to alcohol or drugs frequently exhibit symptoms that could be confused with ADHD. These are called comorbid symptoms and can include depression, anxiety or a substance use disorder.
Before taking stimulants to treat this condition (methylphenidate or amphetamines), it is important to obtain a psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation. These are class B drugs and could cause serious health issues if not used as directed. They also pose a substantial risk of addiction.
Many people with a history of drug and alcohol abuse can reduce their symptoms by changing their environment, delegating their tasks and enlisting assistants. It is important to remember that these actions don't replace an official diagnosis and mental health assessment for the purposes of the Equality Act.
Psychologists and counsellors are able to provide an ADHD assessment however they are not able to prescribe medication. In certain instances, a psychiatrist or psychiatric nursing may be able to provide this assessment however only if the individual is properly trained in the diagnosis process and is licensed as a medical professional.
Some people aren't diagnosed as having ADHD by their GP because they believe that they do meet the criteria, or other diagnoses would better explain the person's issues. This isn't necessarily a negative thing but it can be frustrating when the symptoms are troubling and impact on your daily life.
Therapy
A private diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that therapists will be less strict or break the rules than if they worked within NHS guidelines. Patients who receive treatment privately must still undergo a thorough evaluation that is based on best practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines. If a healthcare professional working for a private clinic is found to be exaggerating the diagnosis of ADHD It is likely that they will be disciplined by appropriate authorities.
In addition to a thorough psychological assessment Many adults diagnosed with ADHD also benefit from cognitive treatment for behavioural problems (CBT) and mindfulness techniques. Therapists collaborate closely with their clients to overcome obstacles and devise strategies that can improve their lives and reduce the effects ADHD symptoms. This can be done in person or via video conference, based on where the client is located.
CBT is designed to identify negative habits and teach healthy coping techniques. These include procrastination, and poor time management, which are all symptoms of adult ADHD. Therapists collaborate with clients on strategies to reduce symptoms and create a supportive environment.
Adult ADHD is a common diagnosis for adults who are happy that they finally have an explanation for their problems. However, they might discover that their diagnosis triggers many emotions that are difficult to handle. There are ADHD Diagnosis of support groups available to those who need it.
If you are interested in receiving treatment for their ADHD symptoms, a mental health professional can provide them with a treatment plan which includes psychotherapy and medication. Treatment can help improve a patient's concentration, assist them in not lose items, and help them to sit still longer so that they can be able to concentrate and listen with a keen eye. A psychiatrist can prescribe stimulants like methylphenidate to those suffering from ADHD symptoms.