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 be successful in school and at work.
GPs may refer patients to private practitioners who are able to conduct an ADHD assessment. It's important that you check with your GP if they will sign a shared-care agreement prior to beginning.
The Assessment
In the UK due to the long NHS waiting times, many adults with ADHD choose to have their test conducted and prescriptions made privately. However, as this Panorama investigation reveals, not all private clinics are regulated and may be delivering incorrect diagnoses.
Only psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD in adults and prescribe medication. Counsellors and other mental health professionals are not able to diagnose ADHD.
Most private assessment providers will require you to fill in various forms and questionnaires before your appointment, which they review in advance of your meeting. You should bring these questionnaires and forms and any other documents or information that could be helpful. If you were advised by your GP to them, you must take these documents with you.
Once your psychiatrist has reviewed the questionnaires, they will arrange an appointment with you to discuss your results and their findings. You should bring the list of your symptoms (and any documents) as this will be used to assist them in making an informed diagnosis. They will also inquire about your life now and how ADHD has affected you in the past. They might suggest you speak to your closest friend or family member about your issues and the impact they can have on your daily routine.
During this period your psychiatrist will discuss whether or not you might have ADHD and the best treatment options for you. You will receive a detailed written report if they believe that you have ADHD. They will then discuss the findings with you and determine whether you should refer 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 discuss this report with your GP if you want them to prescribe medication as part of a Shared care agreement with your psychiatrist. You should also inform the DVLA if your driving ability is affected by ADHD.
Diagnosis
It's important to know what goes on during the private diagnosis process if you're contemplating it. During the examination, you'll most likely meet with a psychologist or psychiatrist as they are the only healthcare providers in the UK competent to diagnose ADHD. The test will include an in-depth discussion of your symptoms, and how they impact your life. Your mental health professional might also inquire about your family history and any other issues you are dealing with.
Your physician will assess your current symptoms and compare them to the criteria for ADHD in adults as set by the American Psychiatric Association. For instance, he/ she will assess whether you have difficulty paying attention or following directions and the extent to which your hyperactivity is causing difficulties with completing tasks. Your doctor will want to be aware of whether you've been experiencing these symptoms since childhood. You might need to ask your parents or teachers when the symptoms first started.
The specialist will conduct tests like QbCheck to determine if you have ADHD symptoms. They will also conduct a medical interview and ask you to complete several other tests. This could take as long as two sessions.
During the interview, your therapist will ask you to provide examples of how your issues affect your daily life. The psychologist or psychiatrist might ask about your family history, and other issues you are dealing with, like depression.
It is crucial to select the appropriate therapist to conduct your assessment. A reputable clinic, such as Harley Psychiatrists in London, will conduct a thorough examination to determine if you have ADHD. They will also offer you an array of treatment options that are customized to your specific requirements.
There is a possibility that private clinics are diagnosing patients with ADHD too quickly and without doing a thorough assessment. BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a clinic which diagnosed a patient as having ADHD following a video-call, and gave him powerful medication.
A private diagnosis won't be accepted by the NHS. Your doctor will not sign a form transferring your medication treatment from the NHS to your doctor. how to get an adhd diagnosis uk is because a lot of GPs do not have the expertise, skills, and experience to recognize ADHD.
Medication
The process for getting an adult diagnosis of ADHD is complicated and requires gatekeepers. The knowledge and attitudes of these individuals can determine the capacity of help seekers to get access to treatment.
You may want to consider an assessment by a private doctor if your GP refuses to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment or if you're unhappy with the time it takes to wait. Private assessments cost up to PS800. They consist of an interview, a questionnaire with a psychiatrist, and an assessment report. The cost may be prohibitive for some, however it is possible to obtain a shared care agreement with your physician that permits you to pay the NHS prescription fee and visit a private clinician for medication.
However, there's a concern that some private practitioners are over-diagnosing ADHD particularly through online clinics. A recent BBC Panorama 'expose' highlighted several instances where online assessments were not properly carried out. Additionally, those who are addicted to drugs or alcohol often exhibit symptoms that can be confused with ADHD. These are known as comorbid signs and may be characterized as anxiety, depression, or substance use disorder.
It is important to have a psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis before taking stimulants (methylphenidate and amphetamines) to treat the condition. These drugs are classified as class B and may cause serious issues in the body if they are not used according to prescription. They also carry a significant risk of addiction.
Many people with a history of drug and alcohol abuse can reduce their symptoms by altering their surroundings, delegating tasks and enlisting assistants. It is crucial to remember that these methods cannot replace a psychiatric evaluation and a formally recognised diagnosis for workplace protections under the Equality Act.
Psychologists and counsellors are able to provide an ADHD assessment but they are not able prescribe medication. In some instances a psychiatric nurse or psychiatrist can do this however only if they are educated in the process of diagnosing and have a valid medical registration.
Certain people aren't diagnosed with ADHD because the GP thinks they do not meet the criteria or is believed that a different diagnosis better explains the person's problems. It's not something to be worried about, but it is frustrating when the symptoms are distressing or impact your daily routine.
Therapy
A private diagnosis of ADHD doesn't mean that therapists can be less strict or abide by the rules more than those who work within NHS guidelines. Patients who are treated in a private setting still need to undergo an assessment that conforms to the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines and best practices. If a private healthcare provider is found to have an overdiagnosed ADHD, they are likely to be disciplined by appropriate authorities.
Many adults suffering from ADHD benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as and mindfulness techniques. Therapists collaborate with their clients to help them overcome challenges and develop strategies which can improve their lives and reduce the impact of ADHD symptoms. This can be done in person or via video conference, based on the location of the client.
CBT's goal is to address the root cause of a client's problems by teaching them healthy coping skills and helping them identify their bad habits. These habits include procrastination and poor time management, which are all symptoms of adult ADHD. Therapists will work with clients to teach them techniques that will reduce their symptoms, as well as helping them create an environment of support for themselves.
Many people who are diagnosed with adult ADHD are happy to understand the cause of their struggles. However, they might find that their diagnosis triggers lots of emotions that are difficult to handle. There are many support groups for those who require them.
A mental health professional can provide an treatment plan for ADHD symptoms that includes both medication and psychotherapy. Medication can help to improve the concentration of a patient, stop them from losing items, and allow them to stay still for longer periods of time, allowing them to learn new skills and listen attentively. A psychiatrist may prescribe stimulants like methylphenidate to adults with ADHD symptoms.