ADHD Private Diagnosis
An adult suffering from ADHD might need to be referred by their GP to a private health professional to conduct an assessment. This can be done either in person or online through video call.
Panorama A BBC investigation has revealed that certain clinics offer a faulty diagnosis. This can put vulnerable people 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 anxiety or self-doubt. A diagnosis can aid family members in understanding the disorder and how it impacts the person's life. This could lead to better communication and a better management of ADHD.
In the UK In the UK, first talk to your GP about the reasons you think you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should take your concerns seriously and refer you to an assessment by an expert. This process will be quicker when you ask your GP to sign up for a plan that lets you choose your personal provider.
The next step is to conduct a thorough psychological evaluation, which includes an in-depth interview and psychological tests. It is always beneficial to bring a family member with you to offer assistance. After your assessment an expert will identify ADHD and make treatment recommendations. The appointment should last for two sessions.
A diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that could arise when you attempt to obtain a diagnosis through the NHS. When delivering care to you the healthcare professionals must still adhere with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor isn't able to determine that you have ADHD They should be able to explain the reasons. You might not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they might consider that a different condition could better explain your symptoms. This is perfectly fine and shouldn't stop you from seeking an alternative opinion.
One of the main reasons why adults struggle to get a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood by their GP or other medical experts. They might be told that their issues are the result of not trying hard enough or that they are lazy or negligent. It can be difficult, but keep in mind that these stereotypes are not supported by scientific evidence.
What happens if I do not agree?
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to receive a diagnosis. Some doctors have a lack of awareness of the condition and may not know the nature of the condition or how to recognize it. Some may dismiss the symptoms or assume the person is masking the symptoms. Some doctors are confused about the difference between ADHD depression (everyone is down at times) and anxiety (which can have the same symptoms).
In some instances medical professionals who are not familiar with ADHD will confuse the person's behaviour with their uncontrolled ADHD or assume that the person suffers from anxiety or depression due to their unmanaged ADHD. This can be particularly difficult for women with ADHD who's symptoms may be more subtle and easier to overlook. This can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that are not effective.
Some private assessment companies will require a referral from your GP before they can take the appointment. This isn't always easy as NHS doctors can bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred to GPs and then immediately batted back by doctors) on bogus grounds.
The GP who evaluates you will want to ask you some questions about your personal life and how your ADHD symptoms impact it. This may include questions about your job, home, and family, depending on the doctor. They will also talk about the various kinds of medication available to treat ADHD and will discuss which might be most suitable for you. Generally, clinicians will try stimulant medications first, but if this doesn't suit you then a non-stimulant medication such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride could be suggested.
When you receive a diagnosis, your clinician will send you a document to your GP that details the diagnosis as well as the recommended treatment. This is called a "shared care agreement". Some GPs accept these agreements, but not all. If your GP does not, you will have to continue paying privately for your appointments and prescriptions.
What adhd diagnosis adults happens if I'm diagnosed, but I do not want to undergo medication or another treatment?
A lot of the symptoms of anxiety and depression are the same as those for ADHD and anxiety, which is why a mental health professional can help develop a treatment plan that fits the specific requirements of each individual. Early treatment is crucial, and it may include talk therapy, medicine or lifestyle changes. Children suffering from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is a form of aggression toward other people or serious breaches of rules and social norms at home, school or in the company of peers.
What is the procedure if I decide to drive?
Since the DVLA is adamant about ADHD as a disability, having this condition can make it more difficult to get your driver's licence. However this is only the case in the event that your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your day-to-day living. This is something you'll need to discuss with your doctor.
In the same way, having ADHD may affect how well you drive, especially when your symptoms include an impulsive driving style or other irregular driving habits. In the end you may find that you have difficulty with organising your car or remembering to take medication prior to driving. If you're worried about this, choose to travel with someone else or only drive when there's no one else in the car.
The negative portrayal by Panorama of private health care in ADHD assessments is clear. Many adults have shared with us that they received a diagnosis in an private clinic with no drug adjustment. They then had go back to their GP to wait in the line for an NHS assessment. This doesn't just discredit the NHS and creates a stigma around a condition that many people think they are being judged for, even by their family members.