Getting a Private Diagnosis For ADHD
People with ADHD can have difficulty communicating with their supervisors, colleagues, and teachers. This can make it difficult for them to be successful in school and at work.
GPs can refer patients to private practitioners for an ADHD assessment. But, it's essential to ensure that your GP will sign a shared care agreement before you proceed.
Assessment
In the UK, due to long NHS waiting times, many adults with ADHD opt to have their test performed and prescribed medications privately. Panorama's research reveals that not all private clinics comply with regulations and may give incorrect diagnoses.
Only psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD in adults and prescribe medication. Counsellors and other mental health professionals cannot diagnose ADHD.
Most private assessment providers will ask you to complete several forms and questionnaires before your appointment, which they will review in advance of your meeting. It is crucial to bring these forms with you and in the event of a need, any other documents or information that could be helpful. If you were referred by your GP to them, you should also bring these documents along with you.
Once your psychiatrist has reviewed the questionnaires, they will arrange an appointment with you to discuss your results and the findings. Bring a list of your symptoms (and any evidence), as this will help them make an assessment. They will also speak to you about your life and how ADHD has affected you so far. They might also suggest speaking to an immediate family member or friend about your issues and how they impact on your daily routine.
During this period your psychiatrist will talk with you about whether or not you might have ADHD and the best treatment options for you. You will be provided with a detailed written report if they believe you have ADHD. iampsychiatry.com 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 with regards to your condition, treatment and management. It is recommended to present this report to your GP to discuss if you think you might want them to prescribe medication under an Shared Care agreement with your psychiatrist. It is also an excellent idea to inform the DVLA if you have been diagnosed with ADHD because it could affect your driving abilities.
Diagnosis
If you're thinking about receiving a diagnosis privately it is important to know what the process involves. During the assessment you'll most likely meet a psychologist or psychiatrist as they are the only healthcare providers in the UK qualified to diagnose ADHD. The assessment will include an in-depth review of your symptoms and how they impact your life. Your mental health specialist will also inquire about your family history as well as any other issues you're dealing with.
Your physician will assess your present symptoms and compare them with the criteria for ADHD in adults set by the American Psychiatric Association. He or she will, for example examine if you are having difficulty paying attention or following instructions and when your hyperactivity causes you to struggle with your tasks. Your specialist will need to know if you have been suffering from these symptoms since childhood. You may have to inquire with your teachers or parents when the symptoms first began.
The doctor will conduct several tests to help identify whether you have symptoms of ADHD, such as the QbCheck. He or she will also conduct a medical interview and ask you to take several other tests. It could take up to 2 sessions.
During your interview, you will be asked to provide examples of how symptoms affect your daily life. The psychiatrist or psychologist may also inquire about your family history, and other issues that you are facing such as depression.
It is crucial to select the most appropriate therapist for your assessment. A reputable clinic like Harley Psychiatrists, in London, will conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine if you suffer from ADHD. They can also provide you with various treatment options that are customized to your specific needs.
Some private practitioners may be diagnosing ADHD patients too quickly, without a thorough evaluation. BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a clinic which diagnosed a patient with ADHD following a video-call, and prescribed him a powerful medication.
A private diagnosis won't be accepted by the NHS. Your doctor won't sign a form transferring your medication treatment from NHS to your GP. This is because a lot of GPs lack the knowledge skills and experience to diagnose ADHD.
Medication
The process of obtaining the diagnosis for ADHD as an adult can be a bit difficult and often involves gatekeepers. The knowledge and attitudes of these people can affect the capacity of help seekers to gain access to treatment.
If your GP refuses to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment or if you are unhappy with the waiting times You may want to consider a the option of a private diagnosis. Private assessments can cost up to PS800 and require filling out questionnaires, an appointment with a psychiatrist, and a psychiatric report. The cost can be prohibitive for some, however it is possible to sign an agreement to share care with your physician that permits you to pay the NHS prescription fee and visit a private doctor for your medication.
However, there's a concern that some private providers are over-diagnosing ADHD, especially through online clinics. In a recent BBC Panorama "expose", several cases were highlighted where online assessments were not being conducted correctly. People who are addicted to alcohol or drugs typically exhibit symptoms similar to ADHD. These are referred to as comorbid symptoms and may be characterized as anxiety, depression, or a substance use disorder.
Before taking stimulants to treat this condition (methylphenidate or amphetamines) it is essential to obtain a psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation. These substances are classified as class B and can cause serious issues within the body if they are not taken in accordance with prescription. They also carry a significant risk of addiction.
Many people with an addiction history to drugs and alcohol abuse can alleviate their symptoms by altering their surroundings, delegating tasks and hiring assistants. But it is crucial to remember that these measures cannot substitute for an evaluation of psychiatric condition and a formally recognised diagnosis for the purposes of workplace protections under the Equality Act.
Counsellors and psychologists are able to provide an ADHD assessment however they are not able to prescribe medication. In some cases a psychiatric nurse or psychiatrist may be able to do this but only if they are trained in the diagnostic process and possess a valid medical license.
Certain people are not identified as having ADHD by their GP because they believe that they do meet the criteria, or an alternative diagnosis could better explain the person's problems. It is not necessarily something to be worried about, but it is frustrating when the symptoms are causing distress or affect your everyday life.
Therapy
The fact that you have a private diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that therapists can be allowed to bend the rules or be less strict than if they worked within NHS guidelines. Patients who receive treatment privately still need to undergo a comprehensive assessment that is based on best practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines. If a private health care provider is found to have a diagnosis of overdiagnosed ADHD, they are likely to be disciplined by the appropriate authorities.
Many adults with ADHD benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as and mindfulness techniques. Therapists collaborate closely with their clients to overcome challenges and develop strategies which can improve their lives and reduce the impact of ADHD symptoms. This can be done in person or online via video conference, depending on the location of the client.
CBT's goal is to address the root cause of a client's difficulties by giving them healthy coping skills and helping them recognize their bad habits. These include procrastination, poor management and trouble focus, all of which are signs of adult ADHD. Therapists work with clients to develop strategies that help reduce symptoms and create a positive environment.
Many people who receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD are relieved to be aware of the cause behind their struggles. However, they may find that their diagnosis triggers a lot of feelings that are difficult to handle. There are numerous support groups that can help those who need them.
If you are seeking treatment for their ADHD symptoms A mental health professional can provide them with a treatment plan which includes psychotherapy and medication. Medication can help to improve the concentration of a patient, stop them from losing their belongings, and allow them to stay still for longer periods of time, allowing them to learn new skills and listen attentively. In some instances, a psychiatrist may prescribe stimulants such as methylphenidate for people who are suffering from ADHD symptoms.