ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

Private healthcare providers are making a profit from patients who feel disappointed by logjammed NHS waiting lists. A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that certain clinics were providing inaccurate diagnoses via video calls.

A questionnaire will be sent to the person and they may also request a family member or partner complete the questionnaire. This will need to be returned prior to when an appointment can be scheduled.

Signs and symptoms

If you find yourself constantly getting lost in your keys, struggle to finish work or find yourself interrupted frequently by family members or friends It could be an indication of ADHD. This common condition affects up to 8.4% of children and 2.5 percent of adults and can have a huge impact on personal and professional life. However, many people don't know their symptoms are due to ADHD and do not seek help because they don't know how to do. Sometimes, they'll try to manage their own symptoms however this can be a struggle and may not be successful.

There is no physical or medical test for ADHD. A certified mental health professional will use a variety of sources to diagnose the condition, including symptom lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They also make use of information from people who know the person, including their past and current functioning, as well as information from those closest to them. Based on the severity and nature of the person's issue, additional psycho-educational, learning disabilities or neuropsychological tests could be performed.

It is crucial that a medical professional determine if there are co-occurring conditions like anxiety and depression in a few people suffering from ADHD. A healthcare professional will usually look for other medical conditions that could lead to similar symptoms, for example, an obesity-related thyroid disorder or a thyroid disorder.

GPs do not diagnose ADHD and cannot refer you to a specialist. They could refer you to an Priory hospital or wellbeing centre for an assessment. If you choose to go on your own the test will take place in a clinical setting and involves filling out questionnaires with you, your parents or partner and other people who know you well. These questionnaires are based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as defined in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).

The assessment process will be performed by a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist who specialises in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will carry out a thorough investigation, record your history and discuss your behaviour in various environments with you. This could include at home, at school and in the workplace. You will be asked to rate your ADHD symptoms over the time of a week, and take tests, such as an assessment of cognitive function.

Diagnosis

It is recommended to first speak with your GP if you suspect that you or someone else you know might be suffering from ADHD. They might be able refer you to an individual specialist, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist who is experienced in diagnosing adults with ADHD. You can also contact specialists directly to set up an appointment. You will be asked to complete a questionnaire before your appointment. You will also be asked to provide details regarding your mental health past, including any prior treatment you've received.

It is essential to be forthcoming about your issues with the clinician, as you will be required to provide the full details to get an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will review your medical history of your family, your personal medical history, and current symptoms. The doctor will analyze the information to determine if you have ADHD and the severity of your symptoms. They will also look into whether other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, might be causing your symptoms.

Based on the circumstances, you may require additional psycho-educational or learning disabilities neuropsychological tests. This will help you rule out other conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms. Some people who suffer from ADHD might also have autism or other learning disabilities, which can cause similar symptoms. It is also a good idea to ask your insurance company for recommendations about professionals who are qualified to diagnose adults with ADHD. You can also contact an adult group in your area with ADHD to inquire about recommendations.

Many people diagnosed with ADHD find that it is an immense relief to understand the reason they have been struggling in their lives. It isn't easy to face the emotions that accompany a diagnosis. It is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis from a qualified clinician, so that you can take the next steps in managing your ADHD and making the most of your life.

Treatment

The first step to getting a diagnosis is to find a healthcare professional who has experience working with adults with ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, therapist or psychologist who has experience treating adults with ADHD. Alternately, you can ask your family doctor to refer you to an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.

A private assessment for ADHD is different from a typical psychiatric visit because it will include a structured interview to assess your symptoms and how they impact you in your daily activities. It is important to be prepared to discuss your issues with attention and hyperactivity in your relationships, work, hobbies and school. You'll have to bring an inventory of your symptoms and how they have affected your life throughout the years as well as any other mental health issues that you might have faced.

If the adhddiagnosis health professional conducting your examination believes that you might have ADHD, he or she will assess you according to the DSM V criteria. They will look at the list of symptoms you've provided and ask questions to determine if you have at least six signs (symptoms) that have been present in your life for at least a year.

The healthcare professional will write an assessment report and discuss the findings of your assessment to you. If they decide that you aren't a candidate for ADHD they will explain the reason and suggest a new diagnosis that may better explain your problems.

Once you've got a diagnosis it's important to discuss your treatment options with your physician. They can suggest medication and therapy to aid in managing your symptoms. There are a range of treatments specifically designed for adults with ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as acceptance and mindfulness therapy.

It can be a huge relief to be diagnosed of ADHD particularly as an adult. It may explain why you had difficulty in the past, which can be liberating and empower. But, it's equally important to keep in mind that many adults struggle with self-esteem issues when they are diagnosed. Therapy, specifically narrative therapy, can be beneficial for those who need to learn to tell their story differently and alter the way they view themselves.

Support

Online services that allow people to receive a fast ADHD diagnosis via a phone or online questionnaire are becoming more popular as mental health issues are less stigmatized. These services can help cut down the time and cost of treatment by reducing the time needed to find a psychiatrist attend an assessment, then schedule an appointment. These services are also quicker and more user-friendly than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which may feel like a maze at times.

However, they're not without their critics. In recent months, there has been a spate of stories and documentaries accusing private diagnostic clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of the BBC Panorama documentary. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, but the original angle remains the same. Those who seek private ADHD diagnoses are being exploited.

The field of psychiatry is complex and it's not unusual to see people suffer from symptoms that are not actually caused by ADHD. It is therefore crucial to make sure you are diagnosed by a psychiatrist that is an expert in adult ADHD and has a deep understanding of how it presents in adults. A thorough assessment requires collecting information from your relatives, friends and school reports. It may 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 develop an entire treatment plan which could include medication or therapy.

You should also consult your GP to see if they are willing to sign a shared care agreement with you and with your psychologist prior to requesting the private ADHD diagnosis. You will only be required to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. You should check with your doctor before you spend money for an assessment.

A good support system can aid you in managing ADHD symptoms and improve your quality of life. Visit our ADHD treatment page to learn more about how we can help you. You can also request an initial, free, confidential phone consultation with our therapists to see whether we're the right choice for you.