Getting a Private Diagnosis For ADHD
People suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating with their supervisors, coworkers, and teachers. This can make it hard for them to succeed at school and work.
GPs can refer to private practitioners for an ADHD assessment. It is essential to check with your GP if they will sign a shared-care agreement before beginning.
The Assessment
In the UK due to the long NHS waiting times, many people with ADHD opt to have their assessments conducted and prescriptions made privately. However as this Panorama investigation reveals, not all private clinics are monitored and may be handing out incorrect diagnoses.
Psychiatrists are only medical professionals able to officially diagnose ADHD and prescribe medications for adults. Counsellors and other mental health professionals are not able to diagnose ADHD.
The majority of private assessment companies require you to fill in several questionnaires and forms prior your appointment. They will go through these forms prior to your appointment. You should bring these questionnaires and forms with you, as well as any other documents or data that might be useful. If you were referred by your GP to them, you must bring these documents with you.
After your doctor has completed your questionnaire after which they will schedule an appointment with your to discuss the results and their findings. Bring a list with your symptoms (and any documentation) in order to aid in determining a diagnosis. They will also speak to you about your personal life and how ADHD has affected it so far. They may suggest you talk to a close friend or family member about your problems and their impact on your daily routine.
During this time your psychiatrist will talk with you about whether they believe that you may have ADHD and what the best treatment options are for you. If they feel you do have ADHD, you will receive an written report describing their findings. They will discuss this with you and determine if you should take your diagnosis to your GP to ensure that they are on the same page regarding your condition, treatment and treatment. It is a good idea to present this report to your GP to discuss it if you think you might like them to prescribe medication under a Shared Care agreement with your psychiatrist. It is also recommended to inform the DVLA that you have been diagnosed with ADHD as it could impact your driving ability.
Diagnosis
It is important to understand what happens during the private diagnosis process if you're thinking about it. In the course of your assessment, you'll likely see a psychologist or psychiatrist because they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK certified to diagnose ADHD. The test will include an extensive discussion of your symptoms, and how they affect your daily life. Your mental health professional will also inquire regarding your family history and any other issues you're dealing with.
Your physician will assess your present symptoms and compare them to the criteria for ADHD for adults, as defined by the American Psychiatric Association. For instance, he/ will determine whether you have trouble paying attention or following directions, and whether your hyperactivity causes difficulty keeping up with tasks. Your doctor will also want to determine if you've experienced these symptoms since childhood. You may have to inquire with your parents or teachers when the symptoms first started.
The specialist will use a series of tests to help identify whether you have symptoms of ADHD like the QbCheck. The specialist will also conduct a medical interview and ask you to take several other tests. This could take as long as 2 sessions.
During your interview, you'll be asked to give examples of how your symptoms impact your daily life. The psychiatrist or psychologist may also inquire about your family history, and other issues that you are dealing with, such as depression.
It is crucial to select the best therapist for your evaluation. A reputable clinic such as Harley Psychiatrists, in London, will conduct a comprehensive examination to determine whether you suffer from ADHD. They will also offer an array of treatment options that are adapted to your specific needs.
There is a concern that some private providers are diagnosing people with ADHD too quickly, without a thorough evaluation. The BBC's Panorama program recently exposed the clinic that diagnosed a patient with ADHD following a video conference and gave him powerful drugs.
A private diagnosis won't be accepted by the NHS. Your doctor won't sign a contract to transfer your medication treatment from NHS to your GP. This is because the majority of GPs don't have the necessary skills, knowledge, or experience to determine ADHD.
Medication
The process for getting an adult diagnosis of ADHD is complicated and requires gatekeepers. The attitude and knowledge of these individuals can affect the ability of those seeking help to get access to treatment.
If your GP refuses to refer you for an NHS ADHD assessment or if you are not satisfied with the waiting time, then you may consider the option of a private diagnosis. Private assessments cost up to PS800. They consist of an interview, a questionnaire with a psychiatrist and the report. Some people find the cost prohibitive, but you can get an agreement to share care with your doctor that permits you to pay NHS prescription fees and see a private doctor for medication.
However, there is concern that some private practitioners are over-diagnosing ADHD particularly through online clinics. A recent BBC Panorama 'expose' highlighted a variety of instances in which online assessments were not correctly conducted. Additionally, those who are dependent on drugs or alcohol often exhibit symptoms that could be confused with ADHD. These symptoms are known as comorbid and can include anxiety or depression.
Before taking stimulants to treat this condition (methylphenidate or amphetamines) it is essential to get a psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation. These are class B drugs that could cause serious health issues if not taken as prescribed. They also carry a significant risk of addiction.
Many people with an history of drug or alcohol abuse can alleviate their symptoms by changing their surroundings, delegating tasks and hiring assistants. However, it is crucial to remember that these measures cannot substitute for a psychiatric evaluation and a formally recognised diagnosis for the purposes of workplace protections under the Equality Act.
Psychologists and counsellors can provide an ADHD assessment, but they are not able to prescribe medication. In some instances a psychiatric nurse or psychiatrist can do this but only if they are certified in the diagnosis process and have a valid medical registration.
Some people are not diagnosed as ADHD by their GP because they feel that they do meet the criteria, or another diagnosis would better explain the person's difficulties. This isn't necessarily a negative thing, but it can be frustrating when the symptoms are troubling and impacting your daily life.
Therapy
The fact that you have a private diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that therapists are permitted to deviate from the norm or be less strict than if they were working within NHS guidelines. Patients who are seen privately are still required to undergo a thorough evaluation which must be conducted in accordance with the best practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines. 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 disciplined by appropriate authorities.
In addition to a thorough psychological examination, many adults who are diagnosed with ADHD also benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques. Therapists work closely with their clients to help them overcome difficulties and develop strategies that can improve life and reduce the impact of ADHD symptoms. This can be done in person or online via video conferencing, based on the location of the client.
CBT seeks to recognize bad habits and to teach healthy coping strategies. These can include procrastination, poor time management and trouble staying focused and are all symptoms of adult ADHD. Therapists help clients learn from methods to reduce the symptoms they experience, while assisting them in building an environment of support for themselves.
Many people who are diagnosed with adult ADHD are relieved to finally understand the cause of their difficulties. However, they may find that their diagnosis brings up lots of emotions that are difficult to manage. There are many support groups for those who need them.
A mental health professional can recommend a treatment plan for ADHD symptoms that include medication and psychotherapy. Medication can improve a patient’s concentration, assist them in not lose items, and help them to stay still to be able to concentrate and listen with a keen eye. In adhd uk diagnosis can prescribe stimulants, such as methylphenidate for adults who are experiencing ADHD symptoms.