ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

Private healthcare providers are capitalising on patients who feel disappointed by the stifling NHS waiting lists. But an investigation by BBC Panorama investigation found that some clinics are distributing unreliable diagnoses through video calls.

Usually a person will be given an application form to fill out by themselves and also by a close family member or partner. This will need to be returned before an appointment is scheduled.

Signs and symptoms

ADHD could be the reason for your frequent loss of concentration and inability to finish tasks at work, or be interrupted by your loved ones or family. This condition can affect up to 8.4% children and 2.5 percentage of adults. It can have a major impact on both personal and professional lives. Many people don't know the cause of their symptoms is ADHD and don't seek help because they don't know how to do. Many times, they'll attempt to manage themselves but this can be frustrating and may not always be effective.

There is no physical or medical test for ADHD. A trained mental health professional will utilize diverse information to diagnose the condition, including symptom lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They will also use information from people who are familiar with the individual, such as their previous and current functioning and information from those closest to them. Based on the nature of the person's issues further neuropsychological, psychological or learning disabilities tests may also be conducted.

Some people suffering from ADHD might also be suffering from co-occurring conditions, such as depression and anxiety, so it's important for a doctor to rule these out. A healthcare professional will test for other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. For example thyroid issues or weight gain.

GPs do not diagnose ADHD and cannot refer you to an expert. They can refer you to a Priory hospital or a wellbeing center to conduct an assessment. If you visit a private clinic the test will be conducted in a clinical setting and will involve filling out questionnaires with yourself, your parents or partners, and others who know you well. These questions 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 conducted by a skilled psychologist or psychiatrist, who specializes in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will take a thorough investigation, record your history and discuss your behavior in different situations with you. This could include at work, at school and at home. You will be asked to provide the rating of your ADHD symptoms and to take tests, like a test of cognitive functioning.

Diagnosis

You should first consult your GP in the event that you suspect you or someone else you know may be suffering from ADHD. They may be able to refer you to a private specialist such as psychologists or psychiatrists, who is trained in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD. You can also contact experts directly to set up an appointment. Before you attend your appointment with the therapist you'll have to complete an online questionnaire regarding the symptoms you've been experiencing. You should also provide information about your family's health history, as well as any previous psychiatric treatment you have received.

It is essential to be honest about your current symptoms to the doctor, since you will need to give the full details to get an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will look over your medical history of your family as well as your own medical history, and current symptoms. They will then use this information to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and how severe your symptoms are. They will also look at whether your symptoms might be due to other mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression.

Depending on your situation, you may need additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. This will help you rule out other conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms. Certain people with ADHD might also be suffering from autism or other learning disabilities that can trigger similar symptoms. It is also a good idea to ask your insurance company for recommendations of professionals who are qualified to diagnose adults with ADHD. You can also contact an organization that offers support for people who suffer from ADHD and get more info ask for recommendations.

Many people diagnosed with ADHD feel it's an exhilarating feeling to finally have an explanation for why they've been struggling throughout their lives. It isn't easy to manage the emotions that come with a diagnosis. It is vital to get the correct diagnosis from a doctor who has experience treating ADHD. This will allow you to take the next step toward managing your ADHD.

Treatment

Locating a healthcare professional who has experience in working with adults who have ADHD is the first step in getting the right diagnosis. This may be a psychologist, psychiatrist or therapist who is familiar with the disorder and has treated patients in the past. You can also ask your family doctor to refer you to a nurse practitioner or an ADHD assessment.

A private evaluation of ADHD differs from a typical psychiatric consultation because it is an interview with a plan to assess your symptoms and the way they impact your daily life. Prepare to discuss your difficulties with hyperactivity and attention in your relationships, at work or with your hobbies, as well as at school. You'll also need to provide a list of your symptoms and how they have impacted your life over time, as well as any other mental health issues you've had.

If the healthcare professional who is conducting your assessment believes you may be suffering from ADHD the doctor will evaluate you based on the DSM V criteria. They will ask you questions and analyze the symptoms you've listed to determine if you have six characteristics (symptoms). These traits should have been present for at least one year.

The healthcare professional will write an account, and then discuss the findings of your examination to you. If they decide that you don't suffer from ADHD They will explain the reasons why they believe that you do not meet the criteria and suggest another diagnosis that might better explain your problems.

After you've been diagnosed, it is important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor. They'll recommend therapies and medication that can help you manage your symptoms. There are a variety of therapies designed specifically for adults with ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) mindfulness, mindfulness and acceptance commitment therapy.

It can be a massive relief to receive a diagnosis of ADHD particularly as an adult. You may find that it provides a lot of information about the reasons why you've had difficulties in the past, and it can be empowering and liberating. It is important to keep in mind that many adults experience self-stigma after being diagnosed. Therapy, particularly narrative therapy, can be beneficial for those who need to learn to tell their own stories differently and change the way they perceive themselves.

Support

Online services that allow individuals to receive a fast ADHD diagnosis through a phone or online questionnaire are becoming more popular as mental health problems are becoming less stigmatised. These services can reduce the amount of time and expense involved in treatment by reducing the time required to locate a psychiatrist, wait for an assessment, and then schedule the appointment. They also have the advantage of being more efficient and less time-consuming than navigating the NHS referral and assessment process, which can appear to be a maze.

They are not without critics. In recent months, there's been a spate of reports and documentaries that accuse private diagnostic clinics of knowingly overdiagnosing ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of an 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 abused.

Psychiatry is a complex field, and it's not uncommon to see people suffer from symptoms that aren't caused by ADHD. That's why it's important to ensure you're diagnosed by a psychiatrist that is an expert in adult ADHD, and has a thorough understanding of how it manifests in adults. A thorough assessment requires collecting information from your relatives, friends and school reports. It could also include a pre-assessment form. Your physician will use these findings to determine if you have ADHD, and create an entire treatment plan that may include medication or therapy.

It is also advisable to check with your GP to see if they are willing to sign a shared-care contract with you as well as your psychologist prior to seeking an individual ADHD diagnosis. This means you'll only have to pay the NHS prescription charge for your medication. You should consult with your GP before spending money for an assessment.

A supportive system in place can help you control the symptoms of ADHD and improve your quality of life. If you're ready to take the first step toward a better future go to our ADHD treatment page to learn more about the ways we can assist. You can also schedule a free, confidential phone consultation with our therapists to determine whether we're the right person for you.