ADHD Diagnosis - How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis<br /><br />Private healthcare providers are gaining a foothold on patients who feel let down by logjammed NHS waiting lists. But an earlier BBC Panorama investigation found that certain clinics are giving out inaccurate diagnoses via video calls.<br /><br />In most cases, people is given an assessment questionnaire to complete on their own, as well as by an immediate family member or partner. The questionnaire must be returned prior to an appointment is scheduled.<br /><br />Symptoms<br /><br />ADHD could be the reason for your frequent loss of concentration of focus, inability to finish your tasks at work, or getting interrupted by your family or friends. This condition is common and affects up to 8.4 percent of children and 2.5 percent of adults, and can have a huge impact on your professional and personal life. Many people aren't aware that their symptoms result from ADHD and do not seek treatment because they don't know how to do. Often they'll try to self-manage but this can be a struggle and may not be effective.<br /><br />There is no physical or medical test for ADHD. A qualified mental health professional will utilize diverse information to diagnose the condition, such as symptoms lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They may also draw information from other people who know the person, such as their past and current functioning and information from those closest to them. Depending on the severity and nature of the individual's problem further psycho-educational, learning disabilities or neuropsychological tests could be carried out.<br /><br />Some people suffering from ADHD might also be suffering from co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety and depression It is therefore essential for a doctor to rule out these conditions. A healthcare professional will typically look for other medical disorders that can lead to similar symptoms, like a thyroid disorder or obesity.<br /><br />GPs do not diagnose ADHD and are unable to refer you to a specialist. They may refer you to an Priory hospital, or a wellbeing center for an assessment. The assessment will be done in a clinical environment and you as well as your partner, parents or any other family members close to you will be asked to fill out questionnaires. These questions are based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as described in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).<br /><br />The assessment process is carried out by an experienced psychologist or psychiatrist who is specialized in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will carry out a thorough investigation, record your history and discuss your behavior in various settings with you. This will include at school, at work and at home. You will be asked for a rating of your ADHD symptoms and also to take tests, like a test of cognitive function.<br /><br />Diagnosis<br /><br />You should first consult your GP when you suspect you or someone else you know could be suffering from ADHD. They might refer you to a private physician such as a psychologist or psychiatrist who is trained to diagnose adults suffering from ADHD. You can also contact experts directly to schedule an assessment. You will be asked to fill out an application form prior to your appointment. You will also be asked to provide information about your medical past, including any prior treatment you've received.<br /><br />It is crucial to be honest with your physician regarding your symptoms, since they will require an entire history to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will examine the medical history of your family members as well as your own medical history, and your current symptoms. The doctor will analyze this information to determine whether you have ADHD, and the severity of your symptoms. They will also determine whether your symptoms might be caused by other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.<br /><br />Based on your specific situation, you may need additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing. This will help you rule out other conditions that can cause ADHD symptoms. Some people who suffer from ADHD may also have autism or other learning disabilities, which could cause similar symptoms. Asking your insurance company about professionals qualified to diagnose ADHD in adults is a great idea. You can also contact an adult group in your area with ADHD to request referrals.<br /><br />Many people who are diagnosed with ADHD find that it is an immense relief to understand the reason they've had to struggle in their lives. However it can be a challenge to cope with the emotions that accompany the diagnosis. It is essential to receive a proper diagnosis from an experienced doctor, so that you can take the next steps towards managing your ADHD and getting the most enjoyment from your life.<br /><br />Treatment<br /><br />Locating a healthcare professional who has expertise in treating adults with ADHD is the first step towards getting the right diagnosis. This could be a psychiatrist, therapist or psychologist who is experienced in treating people suffering from ADHD. Alternatively, you could request your family physician to refer you for an ADHD assessment or a nurse practitioner.<br /><br /><br /><br />A private assessment for ADHD is different from a regular psychiatric appointment because it will include an interview that is structured to determine your symptoms and how they affect you in your daily life. Prepare to discuss your struggles with attention and hyperactivity at work, in relationships or with your hobbies, as well as at school. You'll be required to bring an inventory of your symptoms and how these have affected your life over time and any other mental health issues you might have faced.<br /><br />If the healthcare professional conducting your assessment believes you may have ADHD they will evaluate you against the DSM V criteria for ADHD. They will use the list of symptoms you've listed and ask questions to determine whether or not you are suffering from at least six characteristics (symptoms) which have been present throughout your life for a minimum of 12 months.<br /><br />The healthcare professional will prepare an account and inform you the outcome of your evaluation. If they decide that you don't suffer from ADHD, they will say the reasons why they believe that you do not meet the criteria and suggest another diagnosis that might better explain your problems.<br /><br />Once you've got a diagnosis it's crucial to discuss your treatment options with your doctor. They'll be able to suggest treatments and medications that will aid in managing your symptoms. There are many therapies that are designed specifically for adults who have ADHD. These include cognitive-behavioral (CBT), acceptance commitment therapy and mindfulness.<br /><br />A diagnosis of ADHD can be a great relief, especially for adults. It could be the reason you struggled in the previous, which can be liberating and empowering. But, it's equally important to remember that many adults struggle with self-stigma when they are diagnosed. They can benefit from therapy, specifically narrative therapy, in order to learn how to tell their story in a different way and to change how they view themselves.<br /><br />Support<br /><br />Online services that permit people to receive a fast ADHD diagnosis by phone or online questionnaire are becoming more popular as mental health issues are less stigmatized. These services will cut down on the time needed to find an acupuncturist and wait for an assessment which can cut down the cost of getting treatment. They also have the advantage of being quicker and easier than the NHS referral and assessment process, which can sometimes appear to be an endless maze.<br /><br />They are not without critics. In recent months there have been many stories and documentaries claiming private clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. One of the documentaries, produced by BBC's Panorama, was named The ADHD Scandal. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, but the original premise remains the same. Patients seeking private ADHD diagnoses are abused.<br /><br />Psychiatry is a complex field and it's not unusual for people to present with symptoms that aren't caused by ADHD. This is why it's crucial to make sure you are diagnosed by a psychiatrist that specialises in adult ADHD and has a thorough understanding of how it presents in adults. A full assessment will involve collecting information from you as well as your friends and family, including school reports and an assessment questionnaire. Your clinician will use these findings to determine if you have ADHD and then develop an overall treatment plan which could include medication or therapy.<br /><br />It's also worth checking with your GP before seeking an individual diagnosis for ADHD, to see whether they'll agree to a shared-care agreement with you and your psychologist. This means you'll only need to pay the NHS prescription charge for your medication. Some doctors won't do this, so it's best to check before you start spending money on an assessment.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/private-adult-adhd-diagnosis/">adhd uk diagnosis</a> in place can help you deal with the symptoms of ADHD and improve the quality of your life. If you're ready for the first step towards a better life go to our ADHD treatment page to learn more about how we can help. You can also book an appointment for a confidential, no-cost phone consultation with our therapists to determine if we are the right fit for you.<br /><br />