ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

Private healthcare providers are gaining a foothold on patients who feel let down due to the long NHS waiting lists. But an investigation by BBC Panorama investigation found that some clinics are distributing inaccurate diagnoses via video calls.

A questionnaire will be sent to the person and they can also have a family member or partner complete the questionnaire. It is required to fill out this form before an appointment can take place.

Symptoms

ADHD may be the reason behind your frequent loss of focus of focus, inability to finish your tasks at work, or be interrupted by your family or friends. This condition can affect as much as 8.4% children and 2.5 percent adults. It can have a major impact on your personal and professional lives. Many people are unaware that their symptoms result from ADHD and do not seek treatment because they don't know what to do. Often they'll try to self-manage, but this can be difficult and may not be effective.

There is no medical or physical test for ADHD but a trained mental health specialist will draw information from a variety of sources to make an assessment, which may include symptoms checklists and standardized behavior scales for rating, as well as a comprehensive history of the person's past and present functioning, as well as information from others who are familiar with their condition. Depending on the severity and nature of the person's issue, additional psycho-educational, learning disabilities or neuropsychological tests may be performed.

Some people suffering from ADHD might also be suffering from co-occurring illnesses, like anxiety and depression It is therefore essential for a doctor to rule them out. A healthcare professional will check for other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. For example thyroid issues or weight increase.

Doctors are not able to diagnose ADHD and cannot refer you to an expert. They may refer you to an Priory hospital or wellbeing center for an assessment. If you visit a private clinic the test will be in a clinical setting and involves filling out questionnaires with your partner or parents, as well as other people who know you well. These questions 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 evaluation process will be carried out by an experienced psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will take a thorough history, take detailed notes and discuss your behavior in various environments with you. This will include at work, at school, and at home. You will be asked for the rating of your ADHD symptoms and to complete tests, including tests of cognitive functioning.

Diagnosis

If you think that you or someone you know suffers from ADHD the first step is to see your GP. They might be able refer you to a private specialist like psychologist or psychiatrist who is experienced in diagnosing adults with ADHD. You can also contact the experts directly yourself to organise an assessment. You will be asked to complete an assessment form prior to your appointment. You will also need to bring information about your family health history, as well as any prior psychiatric treatment you have received.

It is important to be honest with your doctor about your symptoms, as he or she will need a complete history to make an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will look over your medical history of your family, your personal medical history, and current symptoms. They will then use this information to determine if you have ADHD and how severe your symptoms are. They will also determine whether your symptoms could be due to other mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.

Depending on the situation, you might require additional psycho-educational or learning disabilities neuropsychological tests. This will help you rule out other conditions that can cause ADHD symptoms. For instance, some people with ADHD can also have other learning disabilities or autism that can exhibit similar symptoms as ADHD. Inquiring with here your insurance company for specialists who are qualified to diagnose ADHD in adults is a good idea. You may also contact an adult group in your area with ADHD to ask for recommendations.

Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD are relieved to understand why they have had to struggle in their lives. However it can be a challenge to manage the emotions that accompany being diagnosed. It is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis from a qualified doctor to move forward in managing your ADHD and making the most of your life.

Treatment

The first step to getting a diagnosis is to find an expert in healthcare who is skilled in dealing with adults suffering from ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, therapist or psychologist with experience treating adults with ADHD. You can 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 because it is an interview with a plan to assess your symptoms and how they impact your everyday life. Prepare to talk about your issues with hyperactivity and attention in your relationships, at work and hobbies, as well as in school. You should also bring a list of your symptoms and how they've affected your life over time, along with any other mental health issues that you've faced.

If the health 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 take the list of symptoms that you've given and ask questions to determine whether or not you are suffering from at least six traits (symptoms) that have been present throughout your life for at least 12 months.

The healthcare professional will write an account, and then explain the results of your test to you. If they find that you don't have ADHD they will then explain the reasons why they believe you do not meet the criteria and suggest a different diagnosis that might better explain your problems.

It is important to discuss the options for treatment with your doctor after you have a diagnosis. They can suggest therapy and medication that can assist you in managing your symptoms. There are many treatments specifically designed for adults with ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as acceptance and mindfulness therapy.

A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief, especially for adults. It could explain why you were struggling in the past it can be empowering and inspiring. However, it's equally important to keep in mind that many adults struggle with self-stigma when they are diagnosed. Therapy, specifically narrative therapy, can be beneficial for people who struggle to tell their story differently and change the way they judge themselves.

Support

With mental health issues becoming stigmatized, new services have popped up online that offer people the chance to quickly receive an ADHD diagnosis by an online or phone questionnaire. These services can help cut down the amount of time and expense involved in treatment by reducing the time needed to find a psychiatrist, attend an assessment, then schedule an appointment. These services are also faster and more user-friendly than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which can feel like a maze at times.

There are plenty of critics. In the last few months, there have been many stories and documentaries claiming private clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of the BBC Panorama documentary. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, however the original angle remains the same. People who seek private ADHD diagnoses are being exploited.

The field of psychiatry is complex and it's not uncommon to see people suffer from symptoms that aren't caused by ADHD. This is why it's crucial to ensure you're diagnosed by a psychiatrist that is specialized in adult ADHD and has a thorough understanding of how it presents in adults. A complete assessment involves collecting data from your family, friends and school reports. It could also include an assessment form that you fill out prior to the time. Your doctor will use these findings to determine whether you suffer from ADHD, and create an entire treatment plan that may include medication or therapy.

It's also worth checking with your GP prior to seeking an individual 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. You should check with your physician prior to spending money on an assessment.

Having the right support system in place can help you manage the symptoms of ADHD, and improve the quality of your life. Visit our ADHD treatment page for more information about how we can help. You can also request an initial, free, confidential phone consultation with our therapists to determine if we are the right fit for you.