ADHD Diagnosis - Holding Private Clinics to Account
BBC Panorama's investigation into private clinics that diagnose ADHD is making them accountable. They are alleged to be over-diagnosing the condition.
Many people are seeking an independent ADHD diagnosis due to the fact that they don't want wait for a referral from the NHS. Referrals from your GP may take a long time.
Symptoms
If you are struggling with ADHD symptoms that affect your personal and professional life There are treatments available. These can include psychotherapy and/or medication. Taking the time to understand your symptoms and how they impact on your life is vital and will help to guide the treatment you receive.
The primary symptoms and signs of adult ADHD are impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. Although we all demonstrate some of these behaviours at times, people with ADHD suffer from them more often than others and more frequently. These symptoms can cause significant issues in their lives and may affect relationships and work performance as well as general wellbeing.
ADHD can cause problems with concentration, listen and follow instructions. It can cause problems at home and at school and cause people to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. It can also make people feel restless and fidgety, and cause them to have difficulty organizing and planning tasks. It can lead to problems with appointments and responsibilities. It can also cause people to forget important things like keys, money or mobile phones.
The symptoms of ADHD can also cause issues with sleeping and eating and can have a negative impact on health and wellbeing overall. In some instances, untreated ADHD can be linked to anxiety and depression.
There is no cure for ADHD, but treatment can improve your symptoms and lessen the impact they can have on your life. You'll need to discuss your symptoms with a psychiatrist or any other qualified healthcare professional. You will be asked to describe the symptoms and how they impact your daily routine, including your work, family and social life. The doctor will then recommend the best treatment plan for you.
You may be referred to an adult ADHD specialist by your GP or you can contact Priory yourself and request an assessment. If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD it is possible to obtain an agreement to share care for your medication with your GP to ensure that you only pay NHS prescription costs (as that your GP accepts this and you have been stabilised). This can be arranged for an additional fee.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed as having ADHD is a crucial first step in finding the best treatment for your issues. Based on the specific symptoms you experience and the way they affect your life, treatment may vary from medication to cognitive behavior therapy to coaching. The best option is an in-depth evaluation and diagnosis by an adult ADHD specialist. If your doctor is unable to refer you, you can request a referral from a private health clinic such as Priory or another well-known health or wellness centre that specialises in adult ADHD evaluations. These experts are skilled in diagnosing ADHD, and can give a clear diagnosis within only a few weeks.
The diagnosis of ADHD for adults can be more difficult than in children, because the symptom guides utilized by psychologists were created to identify problems in children. Apart from taking a medical history, the specialist will likely conduct a medical interview, and may also employ questionnaires. Some doctors will even conduct a brain scan in order to determine if your brain functions in the way it should.
A complete evaluation includes a mental screening, as 80% of adults with ADHD also have another condition like autism or post-traumatic disorder (PTSD). To be able to properly assess the condition it is crucial to visit a psychiatrist psychologist who is trained in the field of mental health.
If you're unsure of who to call to get an evaluation and diagnosis, you might consider asking your GP for recommendations or calling your insurance company to find out which professionals are on the network and have the experience to identify adult ADHD. You can also call your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness or CHADD to find recommendations for specialists click here in your area. Ask members of an ADHD support group if they have any recommendations for an expert.
A thorough ADHD assessment typically takes 1.5 hours to complete. It includes an online test, a clinical interview and various validated assessments. The outcome of the test will be a comprehensive report that your doctor can direct to your GP or write a letter.
Medication
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD and they're affecting your relationships or daily life, you should seek assistance from a professional. First, you should visit your GP and request a referral to an assessment. The GP will evaluate your symptoms and examine documents such as school reports. They will only refer you to specialists if they feel that you meet the criteria of a diagnosis.
If you're directed to a specialist, you should attend an appointment with them. The doctor will discuss your symptoms, medical history and family history. They will also assess the current state of your health and lifestyle. They might suggest you take medication to control your symptoms. They will discuss the benefits and risks of the medications and determine which one is best for you.
Stimulants are medications that are used to treat ADHD. The most commonly used medication is methylphenidate. It increases brain activity and can be prescribed in tablets with immediate release that are which are taken twice or three times each day or in modified release tablets that are taken one time each week and released over the entire day. Methylphenidate can be used in adults, teenagers and children. Your specialist will discuss the duration of the medication with you.
Some media coverage of private ADHD assessment and treatment can give an impression that these clinics are "shady". BBC Panorama's documentary, originally titled The ADHD Scandal, later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Expose, is a good example.
There is no doubt that the NHS struggles to meet demands for ADHD assessments and treatment. This should not, however be a hindrance to those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD and treated. Just because a healthcare professional charges for their services does not mean they are free to ignore the rules or disregard evidence-based practices. They must adhere to the guidelines established by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. This is true for GPs, consultant psychiatrists and private ADHD specialists alike.
Treatment
The right diagnosis of ADHD is crucial to managing your symptoms. Your physician may refer you to an assessment at a private clinic, such as Priory Hospital or a wellbeing centre. The clinic will give you the complete report of your findings. They will also help you manage your symptoms to improve your overall health and lead a more enjoyable lifestyle.
The first step is to fill out an assessment form. It usually asks you to rate how you behave in different situations. For instance at work, school or with friends. You may be asked to bring along an individual from your family to provide support. Your therapist will use the information you provide to create a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your requirements. They will examine your symptoms, their impact on different situations, as well as your current life challenges. They will also suggest other treatments that might be beneficial, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
After a thorough examination the doctor can prescribe medication. They'll consider your symptoms, your age and other factors. They'll also look at whether other disorders like bipolar, anxiety, depression disorder could be contributing to your ADHD symptoms.
A thorough examination is necessary to establish an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This includes taking a medical history, performing tests of the psychological and physical, and analysing your responses to questions. The doctor will inquire about any other health problems you have had and will check for other possible causes of your symptoms, like depression or thyroid issues.
In some cases, a GP or psychiatrist might determine that you don't meet the criteria for being diagnosed with ADHD. It could be that the symptoms are too broad or that another condition is more suitable to explain your symptoms. If you're not happy with the decision you've made, you can ask for an alternative opinion. This can be done by an GP or psychiatrist.
Your psychologist will prescribe medication and help you develop strategies to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD. They'll give you suggestions on how to manage your issues at school or at work, as well as at home. They will also offer support and guidance in developing confidence in yourself so that you can overcome your symptoms.