ADHD Diagnosis - Holding Private Clinics to Account
BBC Panorama's investigation into private clinics that diagnose ADHD is holding them to account. It is claimed that private clinics are over-diagnosing ADHD.
Many people are looking for an independent ADHD diagnosis because they don't want wait for a referral from NHS. It can take months to get an appointment with your GP.
Signs and symptoms
If you are struggling with ADHD symptoms that impact on your personal and professional life, there are treatments available. This could include psychotherapy or medication. It is important to take the time to comprehend your symptoms and how they affect your life is crucial and will help to guide the treatment you receive.
The primary signs and symptoms of adult ADHD are hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. While we all exhibit some of these behaviours at times, people with ADHD suffer from them more often than others and to a greater extent. These issues can cause major issues in their lives and have a negative effect on their relationships, their work performance, and general well-being.
ADHD can make it difficult to concentrate, listen and follow instructions. It can cause problems in school and at home and may cause people to feel overwhelmed and angry. It can also cause people to feel restless and fidgety, and result in them having difficulty organizing and planning tasks. It can cause issues with managing appointments and responsibilities and also causing people to forget things such as keys, money or even the mobile phone.
ADHD symptoms can also cause problems with eating and sleeping, which can negatively impact overall well-being and health. Untreated ADHD is often related to anxiety and depression.
There is no cure for ADHD however, treatment can help you improve your symptoms and reduce the impact they have on your life. You will require a psychiatrist or another qualified healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms. They will ask you to describe how your symptoms affect your day-to-day life and whether they have an adverse impact on your home, work and social life. They will then suggest the best treatment plan for your needs.
You can be referred by your GP to an adult ADHD specialist or you can contact Priory and arrange an evaluation yourself. If you have been diagnosed with adult ADHD it is possible to set up a shared care agreement with your GP to pay only NHS prescription charges. This can be arranged for an additional fee.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is the first step in finding the best treatment for your symptoms. Treatment options can differ based on the severity of your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. It could be medication, cognitive therapy or coaching. The best option is to receive an accurate diagnosis and evaluation from a specialist for adult ADHD. If your doctor refuses to refer you, ask for the referral of an independent healthcare clinic like Priory or any other well-known hospital that specializes in adult ADHD evaluations. They are experts in diagnosing ADHD and can provide you with a clear diagnosis within a couple of weeks.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults is more difficult than diagnosing children due to the symptom guidelines used by psychologists are geared toward identifying problems in kids. The specialist will also likely conduct a clinical exam and use questionnaires. Some doctors may even do an examination of the brain to determine whether your brain is functioning in the way it should.
A thorough evaluation of ADHD will also include a mental health check as around 80 percent of adults who suffer from ADHD also suffer from another disorder like autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To ensure that you are properly assessed it is essential to see a psychiatrist or psychologist who is trained in mental health.
If you're not sure who to call to get an evaluation or a diagnosis, consult your GP or contact your insurance company. They can inform you which doctors have expertise in diagnosing adult ADHD and are part of the network. You can also contact your local chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or CHADD for recommendations of professionals in your region. Ask people who attend an ADHD support group if they have any recommendations for a professional.
A comprehensive ADHD assessment will typically take 1.5 hours to complete. It includes an online test, a medical interview and various assessments that are validated. The result of the test is a comprehensive report that your specialist will send to your GP or send to third parties.
Medication
If you have symptoms of ADHD and they're affecting your relationships or everyday life, you should seek assistance from a professional. The first step is to visit your GP (family doctor) and ask them to recommend you for an assessment. The GP will evaluate your symptoms and look over documents like school reports. They will only refer you to specialists when they feel that you meet the criteria for a diagnosis.
If you're recommended to a specialist, you must make an appointment with them. The specialist will go through your symptoms, your history and get more info family history. They will also assess your current health and life style. They may suggest that you consider medications to manage your symptoms. They will go over the potential risks and benefits of the medication and help you decide which one is the best choice for you.
The medications used to treat ADHD are referred to as stimulants. The most commonly used medication is methylphenidate. It improves brain activity and is prescribed in immediate-release tablets that are taken three or two times every day, or modified release tablets taken once every week and released throughout the entire day. Methylphenidate is suitable for adults, adolescents and children. Your doctor will inform you the length of time you'll need to take the medication.
Unfortunately, some media coverage of private ADHD evaluations and treatment may make it appear as if these clinics are'shady'. BBC Panorama's documentary called The ADHD Scandal but later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Expose, is a good example.
There is no doubt that the NHS is struggling to meet the demand for ADHD assessments and treatment. This should not, however hinder those who want to be diagnosed with ADHD and treated. The fact that a professional charges for their services, does not mean they can ignore evidence-based practices or deviate from the rules. They must nevertheless adhere to the guidelines established by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. This is the case for psychiatrists, GPs and private ADHD specialists.
Treatment
Finding the correct diagnosis for ADHD is an important step in managing your symptoms. Your physician may recommend an individual clinic for evaluation for ADHD, such as Priory Hospital or a wellbeing centre. The clinic will give you a full report of the results. They will also help you manage your symptoms to improve your overall health and lead an enjoyable life.
The first step of the process is a questionnaire. This will usually ask you to rate how you behave in different situations. For example at work, school or with friends. You may be asked to bring someone from your family for assistance. Your therapist will utilize the information you provide to formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your requirements. They will look at your symptoms, their impact in different situations, and also your current life challenges. They will also recommend other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
After a thorough evaluation your doctor will prescribe medication. They'll take into consideration your symptoms, your age and other factors. They'll also consider whether other disorders like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder might be contributing to your ADHD symptoms.
To make a precise ADHD diagnosis, a thorough examination is necessary. This includes taking a medical history, conducting psychological and physical tests, as well as analysing your answers to questions. The doctor will discuss any other health issues you've experienced, and will also check for other possible causes of your symptoms such as thyroid problems or depression.
In certain instances a psychiatrist or a doctor might determine that you don't meet the criteria for being diagnosed with ADHD. It could be because the symptom list is too broad, or it might be that a different disorder is more likely to explain your symptoms. If you are not satisfied with the decision you've made you may seek an alternative opinion. This could be from an GP or psychiatrist.
In addition to prescribing medications as well, your psychologist will assist you in developing strategies for coping with the challenges that come with living with ADHD. They'll offer advice on how to manage your issues at school, at work and at home. They'll also offer you assistance and guidance in developing a confidence in yourself, so that you can overcome the effects of your symptoms.