Getting a Private Diagnosis For ADHD
Communication can be a challenge for those with ADHD, especially with co-workers and supervisors. This can make it hard for them to succeed at work and school.
The GP can refer patients to private practitioners who are able to conduct an ADHD assessment. But, it's essential to check that your GP will sign an agreement to share care prior to you proceed.
Assessment
In the UK, due to long NHS waiting times, many adults with ADHD choose to have their test performed and prescribed medications privately. Panorama's research reveals that not all private clinics adhere to regulations and may give incorrect diagnoses.
Only psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD in adults and prescribe medication. Counsellors and other mental health professionals are not able to diagnose ADHD.
The majority of private assessment companies will ask you to complete several questionnaires and forms prior to your appointment, which they'll review prior to your appointment. diagnosing adhd should bring these forms and questionnaires with you and any other documents or information that may be useful. For instance, if you have been recommended to them by your GP It is advisable to bring these along as well.
After your psychiatrist has reviewed your questionnaires and has a look at your medical records, they will schedule an appointment to discuss the results and their findings. Bring a list of symptoms (and any documentation) in order to aid in determining a diagnosis. They will also inquire about your life now and how ADHD has affected you in the past. They may suggest that you talk to your closest friend or family member about your symptoms and the impact they have on your daily activities.
During this period your psychiatrist will discuss with you whether they believe that you may have ADHD and what the best treatment options are for you. You will receive a detailed written report if they believe you have ADHD. They will talk about this with you and determine if you should take your diagnosis to your GP so that they are on the same page about your condition, treatment, and management. It is a good idea to present this report to your GP for discussion should you suspect that you may need to have them prescribe medication under the terms of a Shared Care agreement with your psychiatrist. It is also an excellent idea to inform the DVLA if you have been diagnosed with ADHD since it could affect your driving abilities.
Diagnosis
If you're thinking of getting a private diagnosis it is important to know the procedure. In the course of your assessment, you'll likely meet a psychologist or psychiatrist as they are the only healthcare providers in the UK qualified to diagnose ADHD. The assessment will include a thorough review of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. Your mental health professional will also ask questions about your family history and any other issues you're struggling with.
Your doctor will examine your current symptoms and compare them to the criteria for ADHD in adults as set by the American Psychiatric Association. The doctor will, for instance determine if you experience difficulties paying attention or following instructions, and if your hyperactivity makes you struggle with your tasks. Your doctor will want to be aware of whether you've experienced these symptoms since childhood. This could mean asking your parents or teachers for details about the time when these issues first started to manifest.
The specialist will use various tests to determine whether you are suffering from ADHD, such as the QbCheck. The specialist will also conduct a psychotherapy interview and ask you to complete various other tests. It could take as long as two sessions.
During the interview, your doctor will ask you to provide examples of how your issues affect your daily life. The psychiatrist or psychologist will also look into your family history and any other issues you're facing like depression.
It's vital that you 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 suffer from ADHD. They can also provide you with an array of treatment options that are customized to your particular needs.
Some private practitioners may be diagnosing ADHD patients too quickly, without a thorough evaluation. The BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a clinic which diagnosed a patient with ADHD through a video chat and gave him powerful medication.
A private diagnosis will not be accepted by the NHS. Your doctor won't sign a form transferring your medication treatment from the NHS to your GP. This is because the majority of GPs do not have the expertise or knowledge to determine ADHD.
Medication
The process for getting an adult diagnosis of ADHD is complicated and requires gatekeepers. Their knowledge and attitude can determine the person's ability to receive treatment.
If your GP is unable to refer you for an NHS ADHD assessment or if you are unhappy with the waiting time, then you may consider the option of a private diagnosis. Private assessments can cost as much as PS800. They consist of an interview with a psychiatrist and the report. Some people find the cost too expensive, but you can sign an agreement for shared-care with your doctor that permits you to pay NHS prescription costs and visit an individual physician for treatment.
There is concern however that some private practitioners over-diagnose ADHD particularly through online clinics. A recent BBC Panorama 'expose' highlighted a number of cases in which online tests were not properly conducted. In addition, people who are addicted to alcohol or drugs often show symptoms that are often confused with ADHD. These are referred to as comorbid symptoms and can include depression, anxiety or substance use disorders.
Before taking stimulants for this condition (methylphenidate or amphetamines) it is crucial to get a psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation. These drugs are classified as class B and could cause serious issues within the body if they are not taken according to prescription. They also pose a high chance of becoming addicted.
Many people who have an antecedent of drug or alcohol use can ease their symptoms by adjusting their surroundings, delegating tasks and taking assistants. It is important to keep in mind, however, that these actions don't replace the need for a formal diagnosis or psychotherapy assessment for the purpose of the Equality Act.
Counsellors and psychologists are able to provide an ADHD assessment however they are not able to prescribe medication. In certain instances a psychiatric nurse or psychiatrist may be able to do this however only if they are educated in the process of diagnosing and have a valid medical registration.
Some people are not diagnosed with ADHD because the GP feels that they do not meet the criteria or it is believed that a different diagnosis is more suitable to explain the person's difficulties. It is not necessarily something to be worried about, but it is frustrating when the symptoms are distressing or impact your daily life.
Therapy
The fact that you have a private diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that therapists are able to bend the rules or be less rigorous than if they worked within NHS guidelines. Patients who receive treatment in a private setting must undergo an assessment that is in line with the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines and best practices. 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 reprimanded by the appropriate authorities.
In addition to a thorough psychological evaluation, many adults who are diagnosed with ADHD also benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques. Therapists collaborate closely with their clients to overcome challenges and develop strategies which can improve their lives and reduce the effects ADHD symptoms. This can be done in person or through a video conference depending on where the client is located.
The aim of CBT is to find the root of a client's difficulties by giving them healthy coping skills and helping them identify their bad habits. These include procrastination, and poor time management as well as other symptoms of adult ADHD. Therapists will help clients learn from strategies to lessen the symptoms they experience, while aiding them in creating a supportive environment around themselves.
Adult ADHD is a common diagnosis for adults who are happy that they have finally found an explanation for their issues. They might also find that their diagnosis can bring up many feelings that are difficult for them to manage. Fortunately, there are many support groups available to those who require it.
A mental health professional can offer an treatment plan for ADHD symptoms that include medication and psychotherapy. Treatment can help improve a patient's concentration, assist them in not lose things, and allow them to sit still longer to learn and listen attentively. In certain instances psychiatrists may prescribe stimulants, such as methylphenidate for people who are experiencing ADHD symptoms.