ADHD Private Diagnosis
A GP may recommend an adult suffering from ADHD to a private health professional to receive an assessment. This can be done in person, or via video conference.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has exposed clinics that give inaccurate diagnoses. This puts vulnerable patients at risk.
What happens if I don't have an answer to my question?
adult adhd diagnosis uk will give you access to treatment and aid in reducing feelings of self-doubt and confusion. Having a diagnosis also helps family members to understand the condition and how it impacts the person's daily routine. This can lead to better relationships and a more informed management of ADHD.
In the UK, the first step is to consult with your GP and discuss why you think you might have ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and recommend you to a specialist for an assessment. This process will be quicker when you ask your GP to refer you to a scheme that allows you to choose your preferred provider.
Then, you will undergo an extensive psychiatric evaluation that includes a detailed psychological test and clinical interview. It is a good idea to bring a friend or family member with to provide assistance. After the evaluation an expert will diagnose ADHD and offer treatment recommendations. The appointment should last for two sessions.
A private diagnosis specialist in adhd can help you avoid the pitfalls of trying to obtain an appointment through the NHS. When delivering care to you, the healthcare professionals should follow evidence-based guidelines and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor doesn't identify you as having ADHD, he or she should explain the reason. You may not meet the requirements for ADHD, or they may believe that another condition could better explain your symptoms. This is fine and shouldn't discourage you from seeking an alternative opinion.
Adults often struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals do not understand their symptoms. Some doctors may tell that their issues are due to the lack of effort or that they're lazy or incompetent. It can be frustrating, but remember that these stereotypes aren't supported by evidence from science.
What happens if I disagree?
Many people with ADHD struggle to receive a diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition, or even how to identify it. Some might dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or think that the person is hiding these symptoms. Some GPs may be confused by the differences between ADHD and other mental health conditions such as depression (everyone experiences depression at times) or anxiety (which may present with similar symptoms).
Some medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD may mistake the person's behavior for their unmanaged ADHD, or assume that they suffer from anxiety or depression disorder as a result. This can be particularly difficult for women with ADHD who's symptoms are more subtle and easier to overlook. This can lead to inappropriate treatment of the symptoms using antidepressants and other medications that are not effective in treating ADHD.
Some private assessment providers require a letter of recommendation from your GP to set up an appointment. This process can be complicated due to the fact that NHS GPs may refuse to accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred to, and then promptly rejected by the GPs).
The GP who evaluates you will be looking to inquire about your personal life and how your ADHD symptoms impact on it. Depending on the provider, this can include questions about your work, home and family. They will also talk about the various strengths and types of drugs available to treat ADHD, and what may be most suitable for you. In general, doctors will test stimulant medications first. However, should this not work for you then a non-stimulant medication such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride could be suggested.
Once you have a diagnosis the doctor will send a letter to your GP with a document that spells out the diagnosis and how that you be treated. This is referred to as a "shared care agreement". Certain doctors accept these agreements but not all. If your GP doesn't, you will have to continue paying privately for your appointments and prescriptions.
What is the next step if I am diagnosed, but I do not want to receive medication or any other treatment?
A mental health professional can develop a treatment plan that is that is tailored to the individual's needs. Early treatment is crucial and could include therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. Children suffering from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is a pattern of aggression towards other people or serious violations of rules and social norms at school, home or with peers.
What happens if I want drive?
The DVLA categorizes ADHD as a disability. This can make it more difficult for you to obtain your driving license. However this is only the case when your symptoms have a significant and long-term impact on your day to day living. This is something that you would need to discuss with your doctor.
ADHD can also affect your driving, especially if you exhibit an impulsive driving style and unpredictable driving behavior. You may find it difficult to arrange your car or ensure that you take your medication prior to driving. If you are worried about this, you may opt to drive with a friend or only drive when you are certain you'll be the only driver in the car.
As you can see, the Panorama program provided a biased negative perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. Many adults have told us that they received an assessment in an private clinic with no medication adjustment. They were then required to return to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This does not just discredit the NHS but also contributes to the stigma surrounding the condition, which makes many sufferers feel belittled by their family members.