Getting a Private Diagnosis For ADHD
Communication is a challenge for people who suffer from ADHD particularly with coworkers and supervisors. This can make it difficult for them to achieve success in school and at work.
GPs can refer to private specialists for an ADHD assessment. It is important to confirm with your GP to see if they're willing to sign a shared-care agreement prior to taking the next step.
The Assessment
In the UK, many adults with ADHD opt to have their assessments and medications prescribed privately due to long NHS waiting times. However, as this Panorama investigation reveals that not all private clinics are regulated and may be delivering incorrect diagnoses.
Psychiatrists are the sole medical professionals able to officially diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication for adults. Counsellors and other mental health professionals are not able to diagnose ADHD.
The majority of private assessment providers require clients to fill out an array of questionnaires and forms prior to your appointment. They will review the forms prior to your appointment. It is recommended to bring these questionnaires and forms and any other documents or information that could be useful. For instance, if have been referred to them by your GP it is important to bring these along as well.
Once your psychiatrist has looked over the questionnaires, they'll schedule an appointment to discuss your results and the findings. Bring a list with your symptoms (and any evidence) in order to aid in determining an assessment. They will also talk to you about your current life and how ADHD has affected you to date. They may suggest that you talk to a close friend or family member about your problems and the impact they have on your daily routine.
During this time your GP will be able to discuss with you whether they believe you might have ADHD and what the best treatment options are for you. If they believe you have ADHD and they confirm it, you will receive an official report that outlines their findings. They will discuss with you if they think you suffer from ADHD and determine if it is best to report this diagnosis to your GP. This way, both parties can be on the exact same page about your condition, treatment, and management. It is recommended to present this report to your GP for discussion should you suspect that you may like them to prescribe medication under the terms of a Shared Care agreement with your psychiatrist. It is also recommended to inform the DVLA when you've been diagnosed with ADHD because it could affect your driving ability.
Diagnosis
If you're thinking of having a private diagnosis, it's important to understand what the process involves. You'll likely meet with a psychologist or psychiatrist during the assessment, as they are the only healthcare professionals certified to diagnose ADHD in the UK. The assessment will include an extensive examination of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. Your mental health specialist may also inquire about your family background and any other issues that you are dealing with.
Your doctor will examine your present symptoms and compare them to the criteria for ADHD for adults, as defined by the American Psychiatric Association. For instance, he/ she will assess whether you have difficulty paying attention or following directions. You will also be assessed whether your hyperactivity results in difficulties in keeping up with tasks. Your doctor should know if you have experienced these symptoms since the age of a child. You might need to inquire with your parents or teachers when the symptoms first began.
The specialist will use a series of tests to determine if you have symptoms of ADHD like the QbCheck. They may also conduct a medical exam and ask you for several other tests. This could take up to 2 sessions.
During your interview, you'll be asked to give examples of how your symptoms impact your daily life. The psychiatrist or psychologist will also examine your family background and any other issues you're experiencing, such as depression.
It is essential to choose the most suitable therapist for your assessment. A reputable clinic like Harley Psychiatrists, in London will conduct a thorough examination to determine whether you are suffering from ADHD. They will also offer you a range of treatment options that are tailored to your individual requirements.
Some private practitioners may be diagnosing ADHD patients too quickly, without thorough assessment. The BBC's Panorama program recently exposed an office that diagnosed a patient as having ADHD following a video conference and provided him with powerful drugs.
A private diagnosis won't be accepted by the NHS. Your doctor won't sign a document transferring your medication treatment from NHS to your GP. This is because the majority of GPs don't have the skills or knowledge to diagnose ADHD.
Medication
The process of getting an adult diagnosis of ADHD is a complex one that involves gatekeepers. The attitude and knowledge of these individuals can make or break the ability for help-seekers to get access to treatment.
You might want to consider the possibility of a private diagnosis if you're GP does not want to refer you for a NHS ADHD assessment, or if you are unhappy with the time it takes to wait. Private assessments can cost as much as PS800 and involve filling out questionnaires, a meeting with a psychiatrist and psychotherapy report. The cost could be prohibitive for some people, but it is possible to obtain an agreement to share care with your doctor that allows you to pay for the NHS prescription cost and then see an individual doctor for treatment.
However, there is concern that some private practitioners are over-diagnosing ADHD, especially through online clinics. In an upcoming BBC Panorama "expose", there were several instances in which online assessments were not carried out correctly. Additionally, how to get an adult adhd diagnosis who are dependent on drugs or alcohol often exhibit symptoms that can be confused with ADHD. These are called comorbid symptoms and can include anxiety, depression or a substance use disorder.
Before you take stimulants for this condition (methylphenidate or amphetamines) it is crucial to obtain a psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation. These substances are classified as class B and can cause serious issues in the body if they are not used according to prescription. They also pose a substantial risk of addiction.
Many people who have a history of drug or alcohol use can ease their symptoms by altering their environment, delegating tasks and utilizing assistants. It is crucial to remember that these methods cannot replace a psychiatric evaluation and a medically recognized diagnosis for the purposes of workplace protections under the Equality Act.
Psychologists and counsellors are able to provide an ADHD assessment but they aren't able to prescribe medication. In certain cases, psychiatrists or psychiatric nurses can provide this assessment, however only if the individual is trained in the diagnosis process and has a valid medical license.
Certain people are not identified as ADHD by their GP because they feel that they meet the criteria, or that an alternative diagnosis could better explain the person's problems. This isn't necessarily a negative thing, but it can be frustrating when the symptoms are causing distress and affecting your daily life.
Therapy
A private diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that therapists will be less strict or abide by the rules more than when they work within NHS guidelines. Patients who are seen privately still need to undergo a thorough assessment that is based on best practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines. If a healthcare professional in private practice is found to be exaggerating the diagnosis of ADHD, it is likely that they will be disciplined by appropriate authorities.
Many adults suffering from ADHD benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as mindfulness practices. Therapists collaborate closely with clients to help them overcome their challenges and devise strategies to enhance their lives and lessen the effects of ADHD symptoms. This can be done either in person or through a video conference, depending on the location of the client.
The goal of CBT is to address the root cause of a client's issues by teaching them healthy coping skills and helping them identify their problematic habits. These habits include procrastination and poor time management, which are all symptoms of adult ADHD. Therapists collaborate with clients on techniques that reduce symptoms and help them create a supportive environment.
Many adults who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD are happy to understand the cause of their difficulties. They may also find that their diagnosis can trigger a range of emotions that are difficult for them to deal with. Fortunately, there are many support groups available to those who require it.
A mental health professional can provide a treatment plan for ADHD symptoms that incorporates medication and psychotherapy. Medication can improve a patient’s concentration, aid in ensuring that they don't lose things, and enable them to remain still for longer so they can learn and listen attentively. In some cases, a psychiatrist may prescribe stimulants like methylphenidate for people who are suffering from ADHD symptoms.