Private Diagnosis of ADHD
The NHS is experiencing an overflow of waiting lists for adult ADHD treatment. Many patients are seeking private clinics to get diagnosed and treated through out-of-pocket or through right-to-choose arrangements.
These clinics have been exposed in a BBC Panorama investigation. The process of obtaining an appointment for a medical diagnosis isn't easy.
Getting a diagnosis
ADHD is a condition that affects all people of all ages. Adults who suffer from ADHD struggle to manage their symptoms that can cause issues at home and at work. A private ADHD assessment can provide adults with the specialist insight they need to pinpoint and treat their symptoms.
A trained psychiatrist or clinical psychology will conduct a private diagnosis of adhd. They will analyze your symptoms in detail, including the impact they have on your daily life. They will then design the treatment plan that is based on your specific needs. This will include a conversation regarding medications and other treatments.
If you're worried that you might have ADHD, the first step is to speak with your family physician. They may refer you to an expert in mental health or suggest an online questionnaire which asks you questions regarding your symptoms. Once you've filled out the questionnaire, a mental health professional will conduct an interview that is structured and compare your responses to a checklist. This is referred to as an ADHD assessment, and it can be completed in two sessions. It is usually beneficial to bring a trusted friend or family member with you for support.
You could also have a questionnaire for your boss, employer, or spouse to complete to provide feedback on your symptoms. They will also evaluate your background of ADHD as when you were a child and later in your adulthood. You will be asked to evaluate the frequency of your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They might also ask you to rate your conduct in various social situations.
While a lot of people are diagnosed with ADHD as children, a few don't get a diagnosis until much later in life. This can be a frustrating experience particularly when medical professionals have preconceived notions about what a person with ADHD should look like. It's important to be aware that these prejudices can lead to inaccurate or inaccurate assessments.
BBC Panorama revealed that some private providers were able to overdiagnose ADHD. This is concerning because if the diagnosis is wrong it could result in inadequate or ineffective treatment. It is important to select a reputable and experienced provider.
Medication
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD they will usually be prescribed medication. Depending on the person, this could be in the form of stimulant medications such as dexamphetamine or methylphenidate and antidepressants such as bupropion or atomoxetine or any other non-stimulant medication like guanfacine and topiramate. Many of these drugs are available in long-acting or extended-release formulations, which accumulate slowly in the bloodstream and therefore reduce side effects.
It is crucial to understand that medication can only control ADHD symptoms, but it cannot cure it. Those with untreated ADHD can still struggle with their relationships, work and overall wellbeing. It is important that anyone suffering from the condition is aware of this and seek treatment when they feel it is required.
A medical professional is the best person to diagnose ADHD and determine the best treatment. This could include psychiatrist, psychologist or advanced practice registered nurses. Simply because private adhd assessment adults are qualified in one of these fields does not mean that they are experienced in diagnosing ADHD and comorbidities for children and adults.
Parents who have had their child diagnosed with ADHD can find the process of obtaining the right treatment lengthy. Private assessments can be expensive for those who can afford them.
There have been reports of private providers claiming to over-diagnose ADHD due to insufficient clinical assessments. This can be problematic for patients and GPs, who will have to take on prescribing arrangements created by private clinics or right-to-choose agreements.
Adults cannot get a diagnosis on the NHS. However, they can have an individual assessment for example, at a Priory Hospital or wellbeing centre. It is expensive however, if someone has been taking their medication for a time and is stable, it may be possible to transfer the diagnoses to an GP. The NHS will then provide the treatment. Certain health insurance plans with extended coverage will cover the cost. If you cannot afford to pay for an assessment and treatment, there is a no-cost diagnosis service offered by the charity ADHD Foundation.
Therapy
If you're not able to reduce your ADHD symptoms through medication or you're looking to improve yourself all around and need guidance to motivate yourself, counseling could be helpful. In therapy, you'll be taught the cognitive distortions that lead to negative thinking patterns, such as procrastination and impulsivity, and you'll learn how to overcome these patterns. Your therapist will teach you self-management techniques to help you cope better with ADHD symptoms.
Counselling is particularly beneficial for adults who were neglected or abused as children, who are struggling to come the realization of their ADHD diagnosis and who believe they've failed in their lives as a result of the disorder's effects. They may be feeling guilt or shame over their inability to communicate with other people, especially at work and school. Individual therapy can help you establish more positive relationships as well as healthy coping mechanisms for your feelings.
For adults whose problems with ADHD are more work-related, counselling can help them manage their academic and work performance and develop strategies to help overcome workplace challenges. For instance, your counsellor may advise you to speak up about your ADHD to your professor or boss and request accommodations in the classroom or workplace. Vocational assessments can also help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, so you can adjust your career goals to suit them.
A thorough mental health screening is required to establish the proper diagnosis. This is essential since a myriad of other illnesses can look like ADHD and about 90% of people who suffer from ADHD will have co-morbid mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or psychosis. GPs are concerned that many private ADHD clinics fail to perform full mental health screenings and are possibly overdiagnosing patients. In fact, a recent study by the BJGP found that the current assessment pathways could be causing harm to vulnerable adults through overburdening NHS mental health services with ADHD referrals.
A simplified process to evaluate and diagnose ADHD is long overdue. The BBC's Panorama report is expected to spark changes in the way ADHD is viewed and treated. Adults with ADHD are able to seek out a private provider to get an accurate and cost-effective diagnosis.
Support
Asking for an assessment is the first step to take when you suspect you or someone else you know could be suffering from ADHD. It's a good idea to discuss the symptoms you or the person you know has been experiencing and how they have affected your life. This will help your clinician get a better understanding of what you've been through.
Many are concerned that the NHS isn't providing enough help to recognize ADHD. This is in response to a BBC Panorama report which claimed private psychiatrists misdiagnosed the condition. It's true that doctors are swamped with referrals to ADHD tests. And it could take up to a year for patients to visit a specialist.
Adults, who are generally working, cannot afford to wait for months for treatment. Some are seeking private clinics to speed up their diagnosis and receive treatment as fast as possible. It can be costly, and your health insurance might not cover the costs.
It can be a relief to receive a diagnosis of ADHD however it may also raise questions about identity and how they fit within society. It's important to take time to take your time and process your emotions, particularly if you feel overwhelmed. Talking about them with a friend or therapist can help and some people prefer to connect with others online who share similar experiences.
Adults with ADHD may require extra help at school or work to maximize their potential. This can include things such as breaks in class, extra time for tests, and written instructions for the tasks. You should discuss any difficulties with your instructor or supervisor because they might be more willing than you to make changes. A diagnosis of ADHD could help you talk to your family and friends about your mental health issues. Your loved ones can help manage your condition by using therapies, medications or other methods.