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ADHD Diagnosis – How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis Private healthcare providers are making a profit from patients who feel let down due to the long NHS waiting lists. However, an earlier BBC Panorama investigation found that some clinics are handing out inaccurate diagnoses via video calls. A questionnaire will be given to the person and they may also request an adult family member or partner complete it. This will need to be returned prior to when an appointment is scheduled. Symptoms ADHD can be the reason for your frequent key loss and inability to finish tasks at work, or getting interrupted by your family or friends. This condition can affect up to 8.4% children and 2.5 percentage of adults. It can have a significant impact on your personal and professional lives. But, many don't realize the cause of their symptoms is ADHD and do not seek help because they don't know how to do. Sometimes, they'll try to manage their own symptoms however this can be difficult and may not be successful. There is no medical or physical test for ADHD, but a qualified mental health specialist will draw information from several sources to determine an assessment, which may include symptom checklists and standardized behaviour rating scales, aswell as a complete history of the person's past and current functioning, and information from those who are familiar with them. Depending on the severity and nature of the problem further psycho-educational, learning disabilities or neuropsychological tests may be performed. It is essential that a healthcare professional check for co-occurring disorders like anxiety and depression in some people suffering from ADHD. A healthcare professional will usually look for other medical conditions that could lead to similar symptoms, for example, an obesity-related thyroid disorder or a thyroid disorder. GPs are not specialists and are unable to diagnose ADHD, but they can refer you to an expert, such as a Priory hospital or wellbeing centre, for an assessment. If you choose to go on your own for an assessment, it will take place in a clinic and will involve filling out questionnaires with yourself, your partner or parents, as well as others who know you well. These questions are based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as laid out in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5). The evaluation process will be conducted by a skilled psychologist or psychiatrist, who specializes in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will take a thorough note of your history, record it in detail and discuss your behaviour with you in various environments. This could include at work, at school and at home. You will be asked for a rating of your ADHD symptoms and also to take tests, like an assessment of cognitive function. Diagnosis You should first consult your GP when you suspect you or someone else you know may be suffering from ADHD. They may recommend you to a private physician like psychiatrist or psychologist who is trained to diagnose adults suffering from ADHD. You can also reach out to specialists directly to schedule an assessment. Prior to your appointment with the therapist you'll have to fill in an assessment form regarding the symptoms you've been experiencing. You will be asked to provide information about your medical history, including any previous psychiatric treatments you may have received. It is important to be open about your issues with the clinician, as you will be required to provide the full details to get an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will examine your personal, family medical history and psychiatric history and also your current symptoms and problems. The doctor will utilize the information to determine if you have ADHD, and the severity of your symptoms. They will also determine if other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, might be causing your symptoms. Based on adhd diagnosis uk adults is possible that you will require additional neuropsychological, psychological, or learning disabilities testing. This will help identify other issues that can cause the symptoms of ADHD. Some people with ADHD might also be suffering from autism or other learning disabilities, which could cause similar symptoms. Asking your insurance company about specialists who are able to diagnose ADHD in adults is a great idea. You may also contact a local group of adults with ADHD to inquire about recommendations. Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD discover it's a relief to finally understand the reason they have been struggling in their lives. It isn't easy to face the emotions that come with the diagnosis. It is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis from an experienced clinician, so that you can move forward in managing your ADHD and making the most of your life. Treatment The first step in getting a diagnosis is to find an healthcare professional who is experienced in dealing with adults suffering from ADHD. This may be a psychologist, psychiatrist or therapist who is familiar with the disorder and has treated other patients in the past. You could also ask your family physician to refer you to a nurse practitioner or an ADHD assessment. A private assessment for ADHD is different from a routine psychiatric appointment because it will involve a structured interview to assess your symptoms and how they impact you in your daily life. It is recommended that you are prepared to discuss your problems with attention and hyperactivity in the workplace, in relationships or hobbies, as well as school. You'll be required to bring an inventory of your symptoms and how these have affected your life throughout the years as well as any other mental health issues you might have faced. If the health professional conducting your assessment believes you may be suffering from ADHD the doctor will assess you according to the DSM V criteria. They will ask you questions and analyze the information you've provided to determine if you have six characteristics (symptoms). These characteristics must have been present for at least a year. The healthcare professional will write an account and inform you the results of your assessment. If they find that you don't have ADHD, they will say the reasons why they believe you do not meet the criteria and suggest a new diagnosis that could better explain your issues. It is essential to discuss the options for treatment with your physician once you have a diagnosis. They will be able to suggest therapy and medication that may help you manage your symptoms. There are many treatments specifically designed for adults suffering from ADHD such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) mindfulness, mindfulness and acceptance commitment therapy. A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief, particularly for adults. It could be that it provides a lot of information about the reasons you've struggled in the past, and that can be liberating and empowering. It is important to remember that a lot of people suffer from self-stigma following being diagnosed. These individuals may benefit from therapy, particularly narrative therapy, in order to learn how to tell their story in a different way and to change how they perceive themselves. Support Online services that allow individuals to receive a fast ADHD diagnosis via a phone call or online survey are becoming more popular as mental health issues are less stigmatised. These services will cut down on the time required to locate a psychiatrist and wait for an assessment which, in turn, reduces the cost of getting treatment. They also have the benefit of being more efficient and less time-consuming to navigate the NHS referral and assessment process, which can sometimes appear to be a maze. They are not without critics. In recent months, there has been a spate of stories and documentaries accusing private diagnostic clinics of underdiagnosing ADHD. One of the documentaries, produced by BBC's Panorama and called The ADHD Scandal. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, however the original angle remains the same. Patients seeking private ADHD diagnoses are being exploited. The field of psychiatry can be a bit complex, and it's not uncommon for patients to exhibit symptoms that are not actually caused by ADHD. It's crucial to find a psychiatrist with a thorough understanding of adult ADHD and who is an expert in the field of diagnosis. A full assessment will involve collecting information from you as well as your family and friends such as school reports as well as an assessment questionnaire. Your doctor will then use these findings to determine whether you suffer from ADHD and develop a comprehensive treatment plan that could include psychotherapy or medication. You should also consult your GP to see whether they're willing to sign a shared-care agreement with you and your psychologist prior to seeking the private ADHD diagnosis. You'll only have to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. It is recommended to consult your doctor before you spend money on an assessment. Having the right support system in place can help you control the symptoms of ADHD, and improve the quality of your life. If you're ready for the first step towards a better future, head over to our ADHD treatment page to learn more about the ways we can assist. You can also request an appointment for a confidential, no-cost phone consultation with our therapists in order to determine whether we're the right choice for you.