Getting a Private Diagnosis For ADHD
Communication is a challenge for people with ADHD, especially with co-workers and supervisors. This can make it difficult for them to succeed at work and school.
GPs can refer patients to private providers for an ADHD assessment. It is essential to check with your GP to see if they're willing to sign a shared-care agreement prior to taking the next step.
The Assessment
In the UK due to the long NHS waiting times, many adults with ADHD choose to have their assessment performed and prescribed medications privately. However as this Panorama investigation shows 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, such as counsellors, are not able to do this.
Most private assessment providers will require you to fill in several forms and questionnaires before your appointment, which they'll review prior to the time of your appointment. It is recommended to bring these questionnaires and forms and any other documents or data 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 psychiatrist has reviewed your questionnaires, he or she will schedule an appointment with your to discuss the results and their findings. Bring an inventory of your symptoms with you (and any documents) since this information will be used to aid them in making a more informed diagnosis. They will also ask you about your current situation and how ADHD has affected you so far. They may recommend talking to your family member or a close friend about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
During this time your psychiatrist will discuss whether or not you may be suffering from ADHD and the best treatment options for you. You will receive a thorough written report if they believe that you have ADHD. They will then discuss the findings with you and decide whether you should refer your diagnosis to your GP so that they are on the same page about your condition, treatment and management. It is recommended to bring this report to your GP to discuss if you think you might want them to prescribe medication under a Shared Care agreement with your psychiatrist. It is also an excellent idea to inform the DVLA when you've been diagnosed with ADHD as it could impact your driving ability.
Diagnosis
It is important to understand what goes on during the private diagnosis process if you're thinking about it. You'll likely see a psychologist or psychiatrist for the assessment, since they are the only healthcare professionals who are qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK. The assessment will include an extensive examination of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. Your mental health specialist will also ask questions about your family history as well as any other issues you're struggling with.
Your doctor will examine your current symptoms and compare them to the criteria for ADHD in adults set by the American Psychiatric Association. For example, he or will determine whether you have difficulty paying attention or following directions, and the extent to which your hyperactivity is causing difficulties in keeping up with tasks. Your specialist will also need to know whether you have been struggling with these symptoms since the time you were a child. This could mean asking your teachers or parents for details on the time when these issues first started to manifest.
The specialist will use tests such as QbCheck to determine if you have ADHD symptoms. He or she will also conduct a clinical interview and ask you to take a number of other assessments. This could take up to two sessions.
During your interview, you'll be asked to provide examples of how symptoms impact your daily life. The psychologist or psychiatrist may also inquire about your family history and other issues that you face, like depression.
It is essential to choose the most suitable therapist for your assessment. A reputable clinic such as Harley Psychiatrists, in London will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if you are suffering from ADHD. They will also provide various treatment options that are tailored to your needs.
Private providers could be diagnosing ADHD patients too quickly, without thorough evaluation. The BBC's Panorama programme recently exposed the clinic that diagnosed a patient as having ADHD through a video chat, and offered him powerful medications.
It's important to note that an individual diagnosis isn't valid in the NHS because your doctor will not sign a shared-care agreement document to transfer your medication treatment to the NHS. This is because many GPs lack the knowledge of skills, experience, and knowledge to determine ADHD.
Medication
The process for getting an adult diagnosis of ADHD is complex and involves gatekeepers. The attitudes and knowledge of these people can affect a person's ability to get treatment.
You may want to consider a private diagnosis if your GP refuses to refer you for an NHS ADHD assessment or if you're unhappy with the time it takes to wait. Private assessments can cost up to PS800 and require filling out questionnaires, an interview with a psychiatrist and mental health report. Some people find the expense too expensive, but you can sign an agreement for shared-care with your GP that allows you to pay NHS prescription fees and see a private practitioner for medication.
There is a concern however that some private providers are over-diagnosing ADHD, particularly through online clinics. In a recent BBC Panorama "expose", there were several instances where online assessments were not being conducted correctly. Additionally, those who are dependent on alcohol or drugs often show symptoms that can be confused with ADHD. These symptoms are known as comorbid and can include anxiety or depression.
Before you take stimulants for 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 problems within the body if they are not taken in accordance with prescription. They also carry a significant risk of addiction.
Many people with an history of drug or alcohol abuse can ease their symptoms by changing their environment, delegating tasks and hiring assistants. However, it is vital to remember that these actions cannot replace the need for a psychiatric assessment 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 aren't able to prescribe medication. In some instances a psychiatric nurse or psychiatrist can do this but only if they have been certified in the diagnosis process and have a valid medical registration.
Some people aren't diagnosed as ADHD by their GP because they believe they do meet the criteria, or other diagnoses would better explain the person's problems. This isn't necessarily a problem, but it can be frustrating when the symptoms are troubling and affecting your daily life.
Therapy
A private diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that therapists can be allowed to bend the rules or be less strict than if they were working within NHS guidelines. adhd diagnosis uk adults who are seen in a private setting still need to undergo an assessment that adheres to the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines and best practices. If a private healthcare professional is found to be overdiagnosing ADHD, it is likely that they will be reprimanded by the appropriate authorities.
Many people with ADHD benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as mindfulness techniques. Therapists collaborate closely with their clients to overcome difficulties and develop strategies that can improve their lives and lessen the effects of ADHD symptoms. This can be done in person or online via video conference, depending on the location of the client.
CBT aims to identify the bad habits and teach healthy coping techniques. These habits can include procrastination and poor time management, and difficulty staying focused and are all signs of adult ADHD. Therapists work with clients to teach methods to reduce their symptoms, as well as aiding them in creating an environment that is supportive of them.
Many people who are diagnosed with adult ADHD are happy to know the reason for their difficulties. However, they may find that their diagnosis brings up many emotions that are difficult to handle. There are plenty of support groups for those who require it.
A mental health professional can recommend a treatment plan for ADHD symptoms that include medication and psychotherapy. The use of medication can improve the concentration of a patient, stop them from losing their belongings, and allow them to remain still for longer periods of time, allowing them to learn new skills and be attentive to what they are hearing. In some instances, a psychiatrist may prescribe stimulants, such as methylphenidate for adults who are suffering from ADHD symptoms.