ADHD Diagnosis - Holding Private Clinics to Account
BBC Panorama's investigation of private clinics that diagnose ADHD is calling them to account. It is claimed that private clinics over-diagnosing ADHD.
Many people are looking for a private ADHD diagnosis because they don't want wait for a referral from NHS. It could take months to be diagnosed by your GP.
Signs and symptoms
If you're struggling with ADHD symptoms that impact on your professional and personal life, there are treatment options available. They include medication or psychotherapy. Understanding your symptoms and how they impact on your life is vital and can help guide the treatment you receive.
The most prominent signs and symptoms of adult ADHD are hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. While we all display some of these behaviors at times, those with ADHD exhibit them more frequently and in greater amounts. These symptoms can cause serious issues in their lives and have a negative impact on their relationships, work performance, and overall well-being.
ADHD can cause problems with concentration, listen and follow instructions. It can cause issues in the classroom as well as at home, and can cause people to feel overwhelmed and annoyed. It can also make people feel anxious and fidgety and cause them to have difficulty planning and organizing their tasks. It can cause issues with appointments and responsibilities. It can also cause people to forget important items like keys, money or mobile phones.
ADHD symptoms can cause issues with sleep and eating, which can negatively impact overall health and well-being. In some cases, unmanaged ADHD may be associated with depression and anxiety.
ADHD is not curable, however treatment can reduce symptoms and their impact on your life. You'll require a psychiatrist or another qualified healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms. They will ask you to explain how the symptoms affect your daily life and whether they have a negative impact on your work, home and social life. They will then recommend an appropriate treatment plan based on your requirements.
You may be directed to an adult ADHD specialist by your GP or you can contact Priory yourself and arrange an assessment. If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD it is possible to get an agreement to share care for your medication with your GP to ensure that you pay NHS prescription costs (as long as your GP accepts this and you have been stabilised). This can be done at an additional fee.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with ADHD is an important first step to find the best treatment for your symptoms. Depending on your individual symptoms and the way they affect your life, treatment may differ from medication to cognitive therapy to coaching. The best option is an extensive evaluation and diagnosis by an adult ADHD specialist. If your doctor refuses to refer you, ask for the referral of a private healthcare clinic like Priory or another well-known hospital that is specialized in adult ADHD evaluations. These specialists are experts in diagnosing ADHD, and can provide a clear diagnosis within a few short weeks.
The diagnosis of ADHD for adults can be more difficult than for children due to the symptom guides utilized by psychologists were designed to help identify issues in children. The specialist will also likely conduct a physical examination and will use questionnaires. Some doctors will even perform an MRI of your brain to determine if your brain is functioning in the way it should.
A thorough evaluation of ADHD will also include a mental health screening since around 80 percent of adults who suffer from ADHD also suffer from another disorder such as autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In order to be properly assessed, you should always see a psychiatrist who is an expert or a therapist that specializes in mental health.
If you're unsure of who to contact for an evaluation or diagnosis, ask 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 the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or CHADD for recommendations on professionals in your area. Ask members of an ADHD support group if they have any recommendations for an expert.
A comprehensive ADHD assessment typically takes 1.5 hours and includes an online test as well as an interview with a clinician, as well as the completion of various tests that are validated. The result here of the assessment will be a detailed report that your doctor can direct to your GP or in an email.
Medication
If the symptoms of ADHD are affect your daily life or your relationships You should seek help from a professional. You should first visit your GP and ask for a referral to an assessment. The GP can evaluate your symptoms and read documents like school reports. They will usually only refer you to a specialist if they believe that you meet the criteria for diagnosis.
If you're referred to a specialist you must make an appointment with them. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms as well as your family history and. They will also evaluate the current health status and your lifestyle. They may suggest medications to manage your symptoms. They will explain the advantages and risks of the medications and help you decide which is best for you.
Treatments for ADHD are referred to as stimulants. The most commonly used medication is methylphenidate. It increases the activity in the brain. It can be prescribed as tablets that release immediately, taken two or three times per day or as modified release tablets, which are taken once a day and released throughout the day. Methylphenidate is appropriate for adolescents, adults and children. Your specialist will discuss the recommended duration of the medication with you.
Certain media coverage of private ADHD assessment and treatment could make it appear as if these clinics' are "shady". BBC Panorama's documentary titled The ADHD Scandal, later renamed Private ADHD Clinics Expose, is a great example.
There is no doubt that the NHS struggles to meet demands for ADHD assessments and treatment. However, this should not, detract from those who want to be diagnosed with ADHD and treated. Even if a specialist is charged for their services doesn't mean they are able to ignore evidence-based practices or bend the rules. They must adhere to the guidelines set by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. This is true for doctors, psychiatrists, and private ADHD specialists too.
Treatment
Finding the correct diagnosis for ADHD is a crucial step to manage your symptoms. Your doctor may recommend a private specialist clinic such as an Priory hospital or a wellbeing center for an assessment. The clinic will provide you with an extensive report of your results. Additionally, they will assist you in managing your symptoms to help you live a more satisfying life and improve your overall wellbeing.
The first step is to fill in a questionnaire. It usually asks you to rate how you behave in various situations. For instance at school, work or with your friends. You may be asked to bring along an individual from your family to provide assistance. Your counselor will use this information to create an individualised treatment plan. They will assess your symptoms and how they impact you in different contexts and also your current challenges in life. They will also suggest any other therapies that could be beneficial, for instance, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
After you've been assessed and your doctor has prescribed medication if needed. They will consider your symptoms, age, and other factors. They'll also consider whether other conditions like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder might be contributing to your ADHD.
To make a precise ADHD diagnosis an extensive examination is necessary. This includes taking your medical history, performing psychological and physical tests, and also analyzing your responses to the questions. The doctor will also discuss any other health issues you've had and will also look for other possible causes of your symptoms such as a thyroid problem or depression.
In some instances a psychiatrist or a doctor might decide 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 condition is more likely to explain your symptoms. If you're not happy with the outcome you can seek a second opinion from another doctor or psychiatrist.
In addition to prescribing medications and therapists, your psychologist can also help you develop strategies to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD. They will give you advice on how to cope with your symptoms at school, at home, and at work. They will also give you assistance and advice on developing a a positive self-image so that you can conquer your symptoms.