ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Private healthcare providers are making a profit from patients who feel disappointed by the stifling NHS waiting lists. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some clinics were offering incorrect diagnoses through video calls.
Usually a person is given a questionnaire to complete by themselves, but also by a close family member or partner. It must be returned prior to when an appointment can be scheduled.
adhd uk diagnosis and symptoms
If you keep getting lost in your keys, struggle to complete work tasks or are frequently interrupted by friends or family members, it could be an indication of ADHD. This common condition affects up to 8.4% of children and 2.5 percent of adults and can have a huge impact on your professional and personal life. Many people are unaware that their symptoms result from ADHD and they aren't seeking treatment because they don't know what to do. Often they'll try to self-manage, but this can be difficult and might not be effective.
There isn't a physical or medical test for ADHD however a certified mental health specialist will draw information from multiple sources to determine an assessment, which may include the symptom checklists and the standardized behaviour rating scales, as well as a complete history of the person's past and current functioning, and information from people who are familiar with their condition. Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's problem and the severity of the problem, additional tests for learning disabilities, psychological, or neuropsychological testing may be carried out.
Certain people with 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 look for other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms, for example, a thyroid disorder or obesity.
Doctors are not able to diagnose ADHD and are unable to refer you to a specialist. They could refer you to an Priory hospital, or a wellbeing centre for an assessment. The assessment will be done in a clinic and you or your parents, partner, or other people close to you will fill out questionnaires. These questionnaires are based on 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 psychiatrist or psychologist who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD will carry out the assessment. They will carry out an extensive history, take detailed notes and discuss your behaviour in different situations with you. This includes at home, at school and in the workplace. You will be asked to evaluate your ADHD symptoms throughout the course of a week and complete tests such as a cognitive function test.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you or someone you know has ADHD the first step is to see your GP. They may be able to refer you to a private specialist such as psychologists or psychiatrists who is experienced in diagnosing adults with ADHD. You may also contact the experts directly yourself to organise an assessment. You will be asked to fill in an application form prior to your appointment. You will also be asked to provide details regarding your mental health past, including any prior treatment you've received.
It is essential to be open about your current symptoms to the doctor, since you will need to give a full history for an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will look over your personal, family medical history, and psychiatric history, as well as your current symptoms and concerns. The doctor will use this information to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and the severity of your symptoms. They will also determine if other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, could be causing your symptoms.
Based on your specific situation it is possible that you will require additional psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities. This can help to rule out other issues that can cause the symptoms of ADHD. Some people who suffer from ADHD might also have autism or other learning disabilities, which can cause similar symptoms. It is also a good idea to ask your insurance provider for recommendations of professionals 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 discover it's an immense relief to find out the reason they've had to struggle in their lives. It isn't easy to manage the emotions that come with the diagnosis. It is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis from a qualified clinician, so that you can take the next steps in managing your ADHD and getting the most out of your life.
Treatment
The first step in getting an accurate diagnosis is to locate a healthcare professional who has experience working with adults with ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or therapist who is knowledgeable about the disorder and has treated other patients in the past. 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 typical psychiatric consultation because it is an interview with a plan to evaluate your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. It is recommended that you are prepared to discuss your problems with hyperactivity and attention in the workplace, in relationships or hobbies, as well as school. You will have to bring the symptoms you are experiencing and how these have affected your life over the years as well as any other mental health issues you might have faced.
If the healthcare professional conducting your examination believes that you might be suffering from ADHD, he or she will determine your ADHD based on the DSM V criteria. They will use the list of symptoms you've provided and ask questions to determine whether or not you exhibit at least six traits (symptoms) which have been present throughout your life for at least a year.
The healthcare professional will then create a report and explain to you the results of their assessment. If they decide that you don't suffer from ADHD, they will say the reasons why they believe you don't meet the criteria and suggest a new diagnosis that may better explain your problems.
After you've been diagnosed it's important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor. They'll be able to recommend treatments and medications that will assist you in managing your symptoms. There are many therapies designed specifically for adults with ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as mindfulness and acceptance commitment therapy.
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief, particularly for adults. It could be that it explains a lot about the reasons why you've had difficulties in the past, and that can be liberating and empowering. However, it's equally important to remember that many adults struggle deeply with self-esteem issues when they are diagnosed. Therapy, particularly narrative therapy, can be beneficial for people who struggle to tell their own story differently and alter the way they perceive themselves.
Support
Online services that allow individuals to receive a quick ADHD diagnosis by telephone or online questionnaire have emerged as mental health issues are less stigmatised. These services can help cut down the cost and time required for treatment by reducing the time needed to find a psychiatrist wait for an assessment and then schedule the appointment. They also have the benefit of being quicker and easier than the NHS referral and assessment process, which can appear to be an endless maze.
However, they're not free of criticism. In recent months, there has been a wave of documentaries and stories accusing private diagnostic clinics of knowingly overdiagnosing ADHD. One such documentary, made by BBC's Panorama was titled The ADHD Scandal. The title was later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Exposed, but the original angle remained the same: that people who seek a private ADHD diagnosis are being manipulated by.
Psychiatry is a complex field and it's not uncommon for people to present with symptoms that are not actually caused by ADHD. It is therefore crucial to ensure that you're assessed by a psychiatrist who is specialized in adult ADHD, and has a deep knowledge of how it manifests in adults. A full assessment involves collecting data from your family, friends and school reports. It may also include an assessment form that you fill out prior to the time. Your therapist will then utilize the results to determine if you have ADHD and develop a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include psychotherapy or medication.
It's also worth talking to your GP before requesting a private diagnosis for ADHD and to determine if they will sign a shared care agreement with you and your psychologist. You will only be required to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. Some doctors will not do this It's a good idea to check before you start paying for an assessment.
A good support system can help you manage ADHD symptoms and enhance your life quality. If you're ready to take that first step toward a better future, head over to our ADHD treatment page to find out more about the ways we can assist. You can also book an appointment for a confidential, no-cost phone consultation with our therapists in order to determine whether we're the right person for you.