Getting a Private Diagnosis For ADHD
People suffering from ADHD can have difficulty communicating with their co-workers, supervisors and teachers. This makes it difficult for them to be successful at work and school.
The GP can refer patients to private providers who are able to conduct an ADHD assessment. It is essential to check with your GP if they will sign a shared-care agreement prior to taking the next step.
Assessment
In the UK because of the lengthy NHS waiting times, many adults with ADHD opt to have their test performed and prescribed medications privately. However, as this Panorama investigation reveals that not all private clinics are licensed and could be giving incorrect diagnoses.
Only psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD in adults and prescribe medication. Other mental health practitioners like counsellors aren't able to perform this.
The majority of private assessment companies require you to fill out several questionnaires and forms prior to your appointment. They will review the forms prior to your appointment. It is important to take these with you, and in the event of a need, any other information or documents that might be helpful. For instance, if have been referred to them by your GP, it's worth bringing them along with you.
After your doctor has completed your questionnaire after which they will set up an appointment to discuss the results and findings. Bring a list with your symptoms (and any evidence) to aid in determining a diagnosis. They will also talk to you about your life and how ADHD has affected you to date. They might also suggest talking to your family member or a close acquaintance about your problems and how they impact on your daily life.
During this period your GP will be able to discuss with you whether they believe that you might have ADHD and what the best treatment options are for you. You will receive a thorough written report if they believe that you have ADHD. They will talk about this with you and decide 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 recommended to present this report to your GP to discuss it if you think you might want them to prescribe medication under the terms of a Shared Care agreement with your psychiatrist. You should also inform the DVLA that your driving ability is affected by ADHD.
Diagnosis
If you're thinking of getting a private diagnosis it's crucial to know what the process involves. You'll likely see 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 a thorough examination of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. Resource will also ask questions about your family history as well as any other issues you're dealing with.
Your physician will assess your current symptoms and compare them with the criteria for ADHD in adults as set 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 causes difficulties with completing tasks. Your specialist will need to determine if you've been suffering from these symptoms since childhood. You may need to ask your parents or teachers when the symptoms first started.
The specialist will use a series of tests to determine if you have symptoms of ADHD like the QbCheck. The specialist might also conduct a medical interview and ask you for several other tests. It could take as long as two sessions.
During your interview, you'll be asked to give examples of how your symptoms impact your daily life. The psychologist or psychiatrist will also review your family history and any other issues you're experiencing like depression.
It is crucial to select the right therapist for your assessment. A reputable facility, such as Harley Psychiatrists in London, will conduct a thorough examination to determine whether you have ADHD. They will also provide you with various treatment options that are tailored to your needs.
There is a concern that some private practitioners are diagnosing patients with ADHD too quickly and without conducting a thorough assessment. BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a facility that identified a patient with ADHD after a video-call and gave him powerful medication.
A private diagnosis will not be accepted by the NHS. Your GP won't sign a form transferring your medication treatment from the NHS to your GP. This is because a lot of GPs do not have the expertise, skills, and experience to recognize ADHD.
Medication
The process of getting a diagnosis for ADHD as an adult is complex and often involves gatekeepers. The attitude and knowledge of these individuals can determine the ability for help-seekers to get access to treatment.
You might want to think about a private diagnosis if your GP is unable to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment, or if you are unhappy with the waiting time. Private assessments can cost up to PS800. They include a questionnaire, an interview with a psychiatrist, and an assessment report. The cost could be prohibitive for some, but it is possible to get an agreement for shared care with your physician that permits you to pay for the NHS prescription fee and visit an individual doctor for treatment.
There is a concern, however, that some private providers over-diagnose ADHD particularly through online clinics. In an upcoming BBC Panorama "expose", several cases were highlighted where online assessments were not carried out correctly. In addition, people who are dependent on drugs or alcohol often exhibit symptoms that could be confused with ADHD. These symptoms are known as comorbid and may include anxiety or depression.
It is important to have a psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis prior to taking stimulants (methylphenidate and amphetamines) for the condition. These drugs are classified as class B and could cause serious issues in the body if they are not used according to prescription. They also carry a significant risk of addiction.
Many people who have a history of drug or alcohol use can ease their symptoms by adjusting their environment, delegating work and utilizing assistants. It is important to keep in mind that these actions are not a substitute for the need for a formal diagnosis or psychotherapy assessment for the purpose of the Equality Act.
Psychologists and counsellors are able to provide an ADHD assessment, but they are not able to prescribe medication. In certain cases, a psychiatrist or psychiatric nursing can provide this assessment, however only if the individual is certified in the diagnosis process and is licensed as a medical professional.
Some people are not diagnosed as having ADHD by their GP because they feel that they do meet the criteria, or other diagnoses would better explain the person's problems. It's not necessarily something to be worried about, but it can be a source of frustration when symptoms are causing distress or affect your daily routine.
Therapy
Having a private diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that therapists are able to deviate from the norm or be less rigorous than if they worked within NHS guidelines. Patients who receive treatment in a private environment must undergo an assessment that is in line with the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines and best practices. If a private healthcare professional is found to be averse to diagnosing ADHD it is likely that they will be disciplined by appropriate authorities.
In addition to a thorough psychological evaluation Many adults diagnosed with ADHD also benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT) and mindfulness techniques. Therapists work closely with their clients to overcome challenges and develop strategies which can improve their lives and lessen the effects of ADHD symptoms. This can be accomplished in person or via video conference, depending on where the client is located.
CBT aims to identify the negative habits and teach healthy coping techniques. These include procrastination and poor time management, and difficulty focus and are all signs of adult ADHD. Therapists will help clients learn from them techniques that will reduce their symptoms, while also helping them create an environment that is supportive of them.
Many people who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD are relieved to finally know the reason for their struggles. They may also find that their diagnosis can cause a variety of emotions that are difficult for them to manage. There are plenty of support groups for those who need it.
A mental health professional can provide an treatment plan for ADHD symptoms that include psychotherapy and medication. Medication can help to improve a patient's concentration, prevent them from losing things and enable them to remain still for longer periods of time, allowing them to learn new skills and pay attention to their surroundings. A psychiatrist can prescribe stimulants like methylphenidate to adults with ADHD symptoms.