ADHD Diagnosis - Holding Private Clinics to Account
An investigation by BBC Panorama is holding private clinics that diagnose ADHD to take account. It is claimed that private clinics are over-diagnosing ADHD.
Many people are looking for an independent ADHD diagnosis because they don't want wait for a referral from the NHS. It can take months to be referred by your GP.
Symptoms
If you're suffering from ADHD symptoms that impact on your professional and personal life, there are treatments available. These can include psychotherapy and/or medication. Understanding your symptoms and how they impact your life will allow you choose the best treatment.
The most prominent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD are impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. While we all exhibit certain behaviors in a few instances, those with ADHD are more likely to do so and in greater amounts. These symptoms can cause serious problems in their life and have a negative effect on their relationships, their work performance, and overall health.
ADHD can cause problems with concentration and listen, as well as follow instructions. It can cause issues in the classroom as well as at home, and can cause people to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. It can also make people feel anxious and fidgety and make them have trouble planning and organizing their tasks. It can cause issues with managing appointments and responsibilities as well as forgetting things like keys, money, or the mobile phone.
ADHD symptoms can also lead to problems with eating and sleep which can adversely impact overall well-being and health. In some cases, unmanaged ADHD may be associated with anxiety and depression.
There is no cure for ADHD however, treatment can help you improve your symptoms and reduce the effects they have on your life. You'll need to discuss your symptoms with a psychiatrist or other qualified healthcare provider. They will ask you to explain how your symptoms affect your day-to-day activities and whether they have a negative impact on your home, work and social life. The doctor will then suggest the best treatment plan for you.
You can be recommended to an adult ADHD specialist by your GP or you can contact Priory yourself and arrange an assessment. If you are diagnosed with adult ADHD, it is possible to sign a shared care agreement for your medication with your GP so that you only pay NHS prescription costs (as that your GP agrees and you have been stabilised). This is possible at an additional fee.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed as having ADHD is the first step to find the best treatment for your issues. Treatment options vary based on your symptoms and impact they have on your daily life. It could be medication, cognitive therapy or coaching. The best choice is an extensive evaluation and diagnosis from an adult ADHD specialist. If your GP refuses to refer you, ask for the referral of a private health clinic such as Priory or any other reputable hospital that is specialized in adult ADHD assessments. They are experts in diagnosing ADHD, and can give a clear diagnosis to you within only a few weeks.
The diagnosis of ADHD for adults can be more difficult than for children due to the symptom guides used by psychologists were created to detect problems in children. The doctor will likely conduct a medical examination and use questionnaires. Some doctors might even perform a brain scan to see whether your brain is functioning the way it should.
A thorough assessment of ADHD will also include a mental health check as about 80 percent of people with ADHD also suffer from another disorder such as autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In order to be properly assessed, you should always consult a specialist psychiatrist or a therapist who is specialized in mental health.
If you're unsure of whom to call for an evaluation and diagnosis, you might consider asking your GP for recommendations or calling your insurance company to find out which specialists are part of the network and have the experience to diagnose adult ADHD. You can also contact your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or CHADD for recommendations on professionals in your area. Also, if there's an ADHD support group in your local area Ask for recommendations from people who attend the group.
A thorough ADHD assessment typically takes 1.5 hours to perform and includes an online test, a medical interview and various assessments that are validated. The outcome of the test will be a thorough report which your specialist can send directly to your GP or in an email.
Medication
If the symptoms of ADHD are affecting your everyday life or relationships you must seek professional help. You should first visit your GP and ask for a referral to an assessment. The GP will assess your symptoms and review documents like school reports. They will usually only refer you to a specialist if they believe that you meet the criteria for diagnosis.
If you are referred to a specialist you should make an appointment with them. The doctor will review your symptoms, medical history and family history. They will also review your current health and lifestyle. They might suggest you take medication to help control your symptoms. They will discuss the benefits and risks of the medication and help you decide which one is the best choice for you.
Medications to treat ADHD are known as stimulants. The most popular medication is methylphenidate. It increases the activity in the brain and can be prescribed as tablets with immediate release which are taken 2 or 3 times per day, or as modified release tablets, that are taken every day and released throughout the day. Methylphenidate can be used in teens, adults and children. Your doctor will determine the recommended duration of the medication with you.
Unfortunately, certain media coverage of private ADHD assessments and treatment can make it appear as if these clinics are'shady'. BBC Panorama's documentary, originally called The ADHD Scandal, later renamed Private ADHD Clinics Exposed, is a great example.
There is no doubt that the NHS struggles to cope with demand for ADHD tests and treatments. However, this shouldn't hinder those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD and treated. The fact that a healthcare professional is charging for their services, it does not mean that they are able to evade rules or ignore evidence-based practice. They must adhere to the guidelines laid out by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. This is the case for psychiatrists, GPs and private ADHD experts.
Treatment
The correct diagnosis of ADHD is essential to manage your symptoms. Your physician may refer you to a private specialist clinic, such as an Priory hospital or wellbeing centre for an assessment. The clinic will provide you with the more info complete report of your results. Additionally, they will help you manage your symptoms so that you can live a more satisfying life and improve your overall wellbeing.
The first step of the process is to complete a questionnaire. It will typically ask you to rate your behave in different situations. For example at work, school or with friends. You might be asked to bring a family member along with to provide support. Your Therapist will use this information to create an individualised treatment plan. They will examine your symptoms and how they impact you in different situations and also your current challenges in life. They will also suggest any other therapies that could be beneficial, such as cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT).
After a thorough evaluation the doctor can prescribe medication. They'll consider your symptoms, age, and other factors. They'll also take into consideration whether other conditions like bipolar, anxiety, depression disorder may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms.
To determine a correct ADHD diagnosis an extensive examination is required. This involves taking a medical history, taking psychological and physical tests as well as analysing your responses to questions. The doctor will inquire about any other health issues you've experienced and will look for other possible causes of your symptoms, like depression or thyroid issues.
In some instances the psychiatrist or GP will decide that you don't meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis. This could be due to the fact that the symptom list is too broad or that another condition better explains your symptoms. If you are not satisfied with the decision made you may request a second opinion. This can be from a psychiatrist or GP.
Your psychologist will prescribe medication and help you develop strategies to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD. They will give you advice on how to cope with your issues at school, at home and at work. They will also offer support and guidance in developing a positive self-image so that you can conquer your symptoms.