ADHD Private Diagnosis
A GP may refer an adult suffering from ADHD to a private healthcare specialist for an assessment. how to diagnose adults with adhd ADHD Diagnosis can be done in person or online through video calls.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed clinics that offer incorrect diagnoses. This puts vulnerable patients at risk.
What is the outcome if I don't receive a diagnosis?
A diagnosis from a professional can grant you access to treatments and reduce feelings of self-doubt or confusion. A diagnosis can aid family members in understanding the condition, and how it impacts the person's life. This could lead to better communication and a more informed management of ADHD.
In the UK The first step is to consult with your GP and discuss the reason you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and refer you for an assessment with a specialist. This process will be more efficient if you ask your GP to refer you to a scheme that allows you to choose your personal provider.
You will then undergo a thorough psychiatric assessment that includes a thorough psychological test and clinical interview. It is always helpful to bring a family member along with you to offer assistance. After the assessment the specialist will present a clear diagnosis of ADHD and offer recommendations for treatment. You should expect your appointment to last between two and three hours.
A private diagnosis specialist in adhd can help you avoid the traps of trying to obtain an appointment through the NHS. Healthcare professionals you work with should still follow evidence-based practices and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when treating you.
If your healthcare provider doesn't believe you have ADHD you should be told why. It may be that they don't believe that you meet the criteria for the disorder, or they believe that an alternative condition is more likely to explain your behavior (symptoms). This is perfectly fine and shouldn't stop you from seeking a second opinion.
One of the most common reasons why adults struggle to obtain a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood or dismissed by their GP or other medical professionals. Some doctors may tell them that their problems are caused by a lack of effort or that they are lazy or negligent. This can be extremely disappointing However, it is important to remember that these stereotypes are not based on research-based evidence.
What happens if I don't agree?
Many people with ADHD struggle to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition or know how to diagnose it. Others might dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or believe that the person is masking these symptoms. Some doctors may also be confused by the difference between ADHD and other mental health disorders like depression (everyone experiences depression at times) or anxiety (which can manifest with the same symptoms).
In certain instances, medical staff who are unfamiliar with ADHD will confuse the person's behavior with their unmanaged ADHD or think that the person suffers from depression or anxiety due to their unmanaged ADHD. This can be particularly difficult for women with ADHD who's symptoms are more subtle and easy to miss. This can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that aren't effective.
Certain private assessment providers require a letter of recommendation from your GP to make an appointment. This process is not always straightforward, as NHS GPs are able to bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred to and then immediately batted back by doctors) on spurious grounds.
The GP will ask you questions regarding your life and how ADHD symptoms affect it. This could include questions about your home, work and family, based on the provider. They'll also discuss the various types of medications available to treat ADHD and will discuss which might be the best for you. Most clinicians will recommend stimulant medication, but if it doesn't work for you, they may suggest a nonstimulant such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.
Once you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send paperwork to your GP that details the diagnosis and recommended treatment. This is referred to as a "shared care agreement'. Certain doctors accept these agreements but not all. If your GP does not accept these agreements, you will still have to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I am diagnosed, but I do not want to receive medication or any other treatment?
Many of the signs of depression and anxiety are the same as the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, which is why a mental health professional can help you develop an appropriate treatment plan that meets the specific requirements of each individual. Early treatment is essential, and it may include therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. Children with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a pattern of aggression towards others or severe violations of social norms and rules at school, at home or in the company of friends.
What happens if you want to drive?
The DVLA classifies ADHD as a disability. This can make it harder for you to obtain your driving license. This is only applicable if your symptoms are having an extended and significant impact on your life. This is something you would need to discuss with your doctor.
In the same way, having ADHD could affect how you perform when driving in particular if your symptoms include an impulsive driving style or other irregular driving habits. You may have difficulty to arrange your car or make sure to take your medication before driving. If you're worried about this, you can opt to travel with someone else or only drive when there's no one else in the car.
The negative image of Panorama's private care in ADHD assessments is evident. Many adults have told us that they were given a diagnosis in a private clinic without any drug adjustment. They were then required to return to their GP to wait in the line for an NHS assessment. This does not just discredit the NHS but also increases the stigma surrounding the condition, which makes many sufferers feel that they are judged, even by their family members.