Private Diagnosis of ADHD
Adult ADHD assessment and treatment is becoming increasingly difficult to access through the NHS due to the long waiting lists. A lot of patients are turning to private clinics for diagnosis and treatment, either through out-of-pocket arrangements or right to choose arrangements.
BBC Panorama exposed these clinics. The process of getting an accurate diagnosis in private can be a daunting task.
Finding an accurate diagnosis
ADHD is a complex condition that affects people of all different ages. Adults suffering from ADHD struggle to manage their symptoms that can create problems at home and at work. A private ADHD assessment can help adults get the expert insight they require to identify and treat their symptoms.
A qualified psychiatrist or clinical psychology will conduct a private diagnosis of adhd. They will examine your symptoms in detail, including the impact they have on your daily life. They will then develop a plan of treatment that is based on your specific requirements. This will include a discussion on medications and other treatments.
If you're worried that you might have ADHD, the first step is to talk to your family physician. They can refer you to an expert in mental health or suggest a questionnaire online that asks questions about your symptoms. Once you've filled out the questionnaire, a mental health professional will conduct a structured interview and compare your responses to the checklist. This is referred to as an ADHD assessment, and it could take between two and three sessions. It's usually helpful to bring a trusted family member or friend with you to provide support.
You may also provide your spouse or boss the opportunity to fill out a questionnaire to give feedback on your symptoms. They will also look into your experience with ADHD as a child and in adulthood. You will be asked to evaluate the frequency of your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. You may be asked to rate your behavior in different social situations.
Some people don't receive an diagnosis of ADHD until later in their lives. This can be a stressful experience, particularly since medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what someone with ADHD appears like. Be aware that these biases can cause inaccurate or misleading assessments.
A BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private doctors were systematically diagnosing ADHD. This is a problem because an incorrect diagnosis can cause ineffective or inappropriate treatment. It is crucial to select a provider with experience and a good reputation.
Medication
In most cases, when someone is diagnosed with ADHD, they will be prescribed medication. Based on the person, this could be in the form of stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dexamphetamine and antidepressants such as bupropion or atomoxetine, or non-stimulant medication such as guanfacine and topiramate. Many of these medications are available in extended-release or longer-acting formulations that build up slowly in the bloodstream, and consequently reduce side effects.
It is crucial to understand that medication only manages ADHD symptoms, but it cannot cure it. Patients who do not receive treatment for ADHD can still struggle with their relationships, work and well-being. Anyone suffering from ADHD should be aware of their symptoms and seek treatment if required.
A medical professional should be the one to diagnose ADHD and determine the type of treatment is appropriate. This might be a psychiatrist, psychologist or an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). Just because healthcare professionals are qualified in one of these areas doesn't mean they have the expertise to diagnose ADHD and comorbidities among adults and children.
Parents who have had their child diagnosed with ADHD may be frustrated in obtaining the correct treatment difficult and lengthy. Private assessments can be expensive for those who can afford them.
There have been reports that some private providers are over-diagnosing ADHD because of inadequate clinical assessments. This could create problems for both doctors and patients since they'll be forced to accept prescriptions given by private clinics.
For adults, it's impossible to obtain a diagnosis through the NHS however it is possible to receive an examination privately, such as at a Priory hospital or wellbeing centre. It is expensive, but it is possible to transfer the diagnosis to the GP and receive medications under the NHS in the event that the patient has been stable on their prescription for a long period of time. Some extended health plans will pay for this expense. For those who are unable to afford the expense of a test or diagnosis, there is a no-cost diagnosis service provided by the charity ADHD Foundation.
Therapy
If you're unable to improve your ADHD symptoms with medication, or you're looking to improve your overall health and require guidance to motivate yourself, counseling could be a good idea. In therapy, the cognitive distortions which cause negative thinking patterns, such as procrastination and impulsivity will be explained to you. You'll also learn to alter these distortions. Your therapist will teach you self-management techniques that will help you manage your ADHD symptoms.
Counseling can be extremely beneficial for those who have been neglected or abused during childhood, who are struggling with their ADHD diagnosis and feel like they've failed in their lives because of the disorder's symptoms. They might be feeling guilt or shame over their inability to interact with others, especially at school and work. Individual therapy can help you develop more positive relationships and develop healthy coping methods to manage your emotions.
For adults whose issues with ADHD are more work-related, counselling can help them manage their academic and work performance and develop strategies to help them overcome workplace challenges. For instance, your counsellor might suggest that you disclose your ADHD to your professor or boss and request accommodations in the workplace or classroom. Vocational assessments can also be helpful in identifying your strengths and weaknesses so that you can adjust your goals to suit them.
To establish the correct diagnosis, a comprehensive mental-health screening is required. This is essential as a number other conditions can appear similar to ADHD. About private adhd assessments of ADHD sufferers will also suffer from co-morbid problems with mental health such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or psychosis. Doctors are concerned that private ADHD clinics might not be providing full mental health screenings and may be misdiagnosing patients. A recent study by BJGP found that the current assessment pathways may be harming vulnerable adults by overloading NHS mental health services with ADHD referrals.
A streamlined process to assess and diagnose ADHD is long overdue. The BBC's Panorama expose is likely to trigger changes in how ADHD is assessed and managed. Until then, adults with ADHD are able to seek out a private provider for a reasonable and prompt diagnosis that can get them on the right path to recovery.
Support
A consultation with a specialist is the first step to take if you suspect that you or someone else you know could have ADHD. Write down the symptoms you or someone else have experienced, and how they have affected your life. This will help the clinician understand your situation.
In the wake of an BBC Panorama investigation that claimed private psychiatrists were misdiagnosing ADHD Many people are worried about how hard it is to be diagnosed by the NHS. Doctors are flooded with referrals to ADHD tests. It could take up to a year for patients to consult a specialist.
This is especially difficult for older adults who are typically employed and can't afford to be off of work for a long time while they are waiting. Some are turning to private clinics to speed up their diagnosis and get treatment as soon as they can. This can be expensive however, and the expense isn't always covered by health insurance.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD can be a relief for many, but it also raises concerns about their identity and how they fit within the world. It is important to take time to sort through these feelings, especially when they are overwhelming. Talking about them with a close friend or therapist may help, but some people prefer to connect with others on the internet who have similar experiences.
Adults with ADHD might require help at work or school to make sure they are able to meet their potential. This can include things such as a break in the class and extra time for tests and written instructions for the tasks. It is important to discuss any issues with your teacher or supervisor as they may be more inclined than you to make changes. A diagnosis of ADHD may help you to talk to your family and close acquaintances about your mental health struggles. A strong support system is essential and your family members can assist you in managing your condition by taking medication, therapy or other strategies that might be beneficial for you.