ADHD Private Diagnosis
An adult suffering from ADHD might need to be referred by their doctor to a private health specialist to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person or via video conference.
Panorama A BBC investigation, has revealed that some clinics provide inaccurate diagnoses. This could put patients at risk.
What is the outcome if I don't receive an answer to my question?
A professional diagnosis can give you access to treatments and decrease feelings of confusion or self-doubt. A diagnosis can aid family members in understanding the disorder and how it affects a person's life. This can result in stronger relationships and a better approach to managing ADHD.
In the UK In the UK, first talk to your GP about why you believe you may have ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and refer you to an expert 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 own provider.
The next step is to conduct a thorough psychiatric evaluation, which includes an in-depth interview and psychological test. It is a good idea to bring a family member along with you for assistance. After the evaluation the specialist will be able to diagnose ADHD and offer treatment recommendations. Your appointment should last two sessions.
A diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that may occur when you attempt to obtain an accurate diagnosis from the NHS. When delivering care to you the healthcare professionals must follow evidence-based guidelines and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor does not find that you have ADHD you should be told the reasons. You may not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they may consider that a different condition could better explain your symptoms. This is perfectly normal and shouldn't deter you from seeking a different opinion.
Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals misunderstand their symptoms. They may be told that their problems are a result of not trying hard enough or that they are incompetent or negligent. It can be frustrating, but be aware that these stereotypes are not supported by scientific evidence.
What happens if I disagree?
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition or how to identify it. Some might ignore the signs or assume the person is concealing the symptoms. Some GPs are also confused about the difference between ADHD depression (everyone is down at times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).
Certain medical professionals who aren't aware of ADHD might mistake the patient's behavior for their unmanaged ADHD or think that they are suffering from anxiety or depression disorder due to it. This is particularly challenging for women suffering from ADHD who's symptoms are more subtle and easier to overlook. This confusion can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that aren't effective.
Some private assessment companies require a recommendation letter from your GP to make an appointment. This procedure can be difficult as NHS doctors may not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred and then promptly rejected by GPs).
The GP will ask you questions about your life, and how ADHD symptoms impact it. This may include questions about your home, work and family, based on the service provider. They'll also discuss the various kinds of medication available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be best for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medication first but should this not work for you then a non-stimulant medication like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride could be suggested.
Once you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send you a document to your GP which outlines the diagnosis as well as the recommended treatment. This is called a "shared care agreement". adult adhd diagnosis uk 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 don't want to undergo medication or another treatment?
A lot of the symptoms of depression and anxiety are the same as the symptoms of ADHD, so a mental health professional can assist in developing the right treatment plan to meet the specific needs of each person. Early treatment is crucial and may include talk therapy or medication. It could also involve lifestyle adjustments. Children who suffer from ADHD can also be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggression or aversion towards others, or serious violations of social norms and guidelines at home, school, or among the peers.
What happens if I want to drive?
Since the DVLA thinks of ADHD as a disability, having this condition could make it harder for you to get your driver's licence. This is only a possibility if your symptoms are having a long-term and significant impact on your daily life. It is recommended to discuss this with your doctor.
ADHD can also affect your driving particularly if you show inattention and unstable driving habits. In the end you could find you struggle with organizing your car or remembering to take your medication before getting behind the wheel. If you're worried about this, you may opt to travel with a passenger or only drive when you are certain you'll be the only driver in the car.
The negative portrayal by Panorama of private care in ADHD assessments is apparent. Many adults have reported to us that they received a diagnosis in a private clinic without any medication titration. They then had to return to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This not only discredits the NHS but also contributes to the stigma that surrounds the condition, which makes many sufferers are belittled by family members.