ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

Private health providers are able to profit from patients who feel let-down by the NHS waiting list. However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation found that certain clinics are giving out inaccurate diagnoses via video calls.

Usually, a person is given an assessment questionnaire to complete on their own, as well as by someone close to them, such as a family member or partner. This will need to be returned prior to when an appointment can be made.

Symptoms

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

There is no physical or medical test for ADHD however a certified mental health professional will make use of information from a variety of sources to establish a diagnosis, including symptoms checklists and standardized behavior rating scales, as well an extensive history of the person's past and current functioning, and information from those who know them well. Depending on the nature of the issues, additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities tests may also be conducted.

Some people suffering from ADHD can also have co-occurring disorders, like depression and anxiety It is therefore essential for a medical professional to rule out these conditions. A healthcare professional will look for other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. For example thyroid issues or weight gain.

They are not specialists and they cannot diagnose ADHD, but they can refer you to specialists, such as a Priory hospital or wellbeing center for an assessment. If you visit a private clinic for an assessment, it will be conducted in a clinical setting and will involve filling out questionnaires with yourself, your parents or partner and others who know you well. These questionnaires are based upon the diagnostic criteria for ADHD that are laid out by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5th Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).

A psychologist or psychiatrist who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD will conduct the test. They will take a full history, make detailed notes and discuss your behaviour with you in different environments. This could include at work, at school, and at home. You will be asked to provide a rating of your ADHD symptoms and to complete tests, like a test of cognitive functioning.

Diagnosis

If you believe that you or someone you know has ADHD the first step is to see your GP. They might be able to 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 the specialists directly to schedule an assessment. Prior to your appointment with the clinician you'll need to complete an assessment form regarding the symptoms you've been experiencing. You should also provide information about your family's mental health history as well as any previous psychiatric treatment that you have received.

It is essential to be honest with your doctor regarding your symptoms, since the doctor will require a complete history to make an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will review your family medical history as well as your own medical history, and current symptoms. They will then utilize this information to determine if you have ADHD and how severe your symptoms are. They will also determine if other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, might be causing your symptoms.

Depending on the situation, you may require additional psycho-educational or learning disabilities neuropsychological tests. This can help to rule out other causes that could cause the symptoms of ADHD. For example, some people with ADHD can also have other learning disabilities or autism, which can have similar symptoms to ADHD. Inquiring with your insurance company about specialists who are able to diagnose ADHD in adults is a great idea. You can also reach out to an adult group in your area with ADHD to inquire about referrals.

Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD are relieved to recognize the reasons they've struggled in their lives. However it can be a struggle to cope with the emotions that come with a diagnosis. It is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis from a clinician who is experienced in treating ADHD. This will allow you to take the next steps towards managing your ADHD.

Treatment

The first step to getting a diagnosis is to find an healthcare professional who is experienced in dealing with adults suffering from ADHD. This could be a therapist, psychiatrist or psychologist who has experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. Alternately, you can request your family physician to refer you to an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.

A private assessment for ADHD will differ slightly from a typical psychiatric visit because it will involve a structured interview to assess your symptoms and how they affect you in your everyday life. You should come prepared to talk about your issues with attention and hyperactivity in the workplace, in relationships or hobbies, as well as school. You should also keep a record of your symptoms and check here how they have impacted your life over time, and any other mental health issues that you've faced.

If the healthcare professional who is conducting your examination believes that you might have ADHD The doctor will evaluate you based on the DSM V criteria. They will use the list of symptoms you've listed and ask questions to determine whether or not you are suffering from at least six traits (symptoms) which have been present in your life for at least a year.

The healthcare professional will then write an account and inform you the results of their evaluation. If they decide that you don't suffer from ADHD, they will say the reasons why they believe you don't meet the criteria and suggest another diagnosis that may better explain your issues.

If you've been diagnosed, it is important to discuss your treatment options with your clinician. They'll be able to recommend therapies and medication that can aid in managing your symptoms. There are a variety of therapies designed specifically for adults suffering from ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and mindfulness therapy.

It can be a massive relief to receive a diagnosis of ADHD especially as an adult. You may find that it clarifies a lot about the reasons you've struggled in the past, and that can be liberating and empowering. It's important to remember, however, that many adults experience self-stigma after being diagnosed. Individuals with these issues might benefit from therapy, particularly narrative therapy, to learn how to tell their story in a different manner and change the way they perceive themselves.

Support

Online services that permit people to get a quick ADHD diagnosis by phone call or online survey have emerged as mental health problems are becoming less stigmatized. These services can reduce the amount of time and expense involved in treatment by reducing the time needed to find a psychiatrist wait for an assessment, and then schedule an appointment. These services are also faster and easier to navigate than the NHS referral and evaluation process, which can feel like a maze at times.

There are plenty of critics. In recent months, there's been a flurry of news stories and documentaries accusing 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, however the original angle remains the same. Those who seek private ADHD diagnoses are being abused.

The field of psychiatry is a complicated discipline and it's common for people suffering from ADHD to experience symptoms that aren't ADHD. It is essential to find a psychiatrist who has an understanding of the adult ADHD and who is a specialist in the diagnosis. A full assessment involves collecting data from your relatives, friends and school reports. It could also include a pre-assessment form. Your clinician will then use the results to determine if you have ADHD and formulate a holistic treatment plan that could include medication or psychotherapy.

It's also worth talking to your GP prior to seeking an official diagnosis for ADHD and to determine if they'll sign a shared care contract with you and your psychologist. You'll only need to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. You should check with your doctor before you spend money on an assessment.

The right support system in place can help you control the symptoms of ADHD and improve your quality of life. If you're ready to take that first step towards a better life, head over to our ADHD treatment page to find out more about the ways we can assist. You can also book a confidential, free phone consultation with one of our therapists to determine if we're the best fit for your needs.