An adult with ADHD might need to be referred by their doctor to a private healthcare professional to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person or via video conference.
Panorama, a BBC investigation has revealed that some clinics give unreliable diagnosis. This puts patients at risk.
What happens if I don’t get an answer to my question?
A diagnosis from a professional will grant you access to treatment and help reduce feelings of confusion and self-doubt. The diagnosis can help family members to know the symptoms and how it impacts a person’s daily life. This can lead to better relationships as well as a more educated approach to managing ADHD.
In the UK The first step is to talk with your GP and discuss why you think you might have ADHD. Your GP should take your concerns seriously and refer you to an evaluation with an expert. You can speed up the process by asking your GP to select an option that lets you choose your own provider.
You will then undergo a thorough psychiatric assessment that includes a detailed clinical interview and psychological testing. Bringing a family member to the appointment is always beneficial. After your assessment an expert will determine the cause of ADHD and make treatment recommendations. You should expect your appointment to last around two sessions.
A private diagnosis specialist in adhd diagnosis for adults can assist you in avoiding the pitfalls of trying to obtain an diagnosis through the NHS. The healthcare professionals you work with should still follow evidence-based practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when treating you.
If your doctor doesn’t identify you as having ADHD then he or she must explain why. You may not meet the requirements for ADHD, or they might consider that a different condition could better explain your symptoms. This is okay and should not discourage you from seeking a different opinion.
One of the primary reasons why adults struggle to get a diagnosis of ADHD is that they are often misunderstood by their doctor or other medical experts. They may be told that their issues are the result of not working to do enough or are lazy or adhd Private diagnosis negligent. It can be frustrating, but you should remember that these myths aren’t supported by evidence from science.
What happens if I disagree?
Many people suffering from ADHD have difficulty getting a diagnosis. Some doctors have a lack of awareness of the condition and may not understand the nature of the condition or how to diagnose it. Some may dismiss the symptoms or think that the patient is hiding the signs. Some doctors may be confused by the difference between ADHD and other mental health issues like depression (everyone feels down sometimes) or anxiety (which may present with the same symptoms).
Certain medical professionals who aren’t aware of ADHD might mistake the patient’s behavior for their unmanaged ADHD, or assume that they suffer from depression or an anxiety disorder due to it. Women suffering from ADHD may be difficult to recognize because their symptoms are typically more subtle and difficult to detect. This confusion can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that are not effective.
Some private assessment companies will require a letter from your GP before they will bring your appointment. This procedure can be difficult because NHS GPs may refuse to accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all 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. Based on the provider the questions could be about your work, home and family. They will also talk about the different types and strengths of medication that are available to treat ADHD and which may be most suitable for you. The majority of doctors will suggest stimulant medication, but if it doesn’t work for you, they might suggest a nonstimulant such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.
If you are diagnosed the doctor will send a letter to your GP with a document that spells out the diagnosis and the way in which that you be treated. This is referred to as a “shared care agreement’. Some GPs accept these agreements, but not all. If your GP does not, you’ll have to continue paying privately for your appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I am given a diagnosis but don’t want to take medication?
A mental health professional can assist to develop a treatment program that is specific to the needs of each person. Early treatment is crucial and may include therapy, medication or lifestyle changes. Children with ADHD can be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggressive behavior towards others or serious violations of social norms and guidelines at school, home or with the peers.
What happens if you decide to drive?
Since the DVLA is adamant about ADHD as a disability, having this condition could make it more difficult to get your driver’s licence. This only applies when your symptoms have a an ongoing and significant impact on your life. You would need to discuss this with your physician.
Similarly, having ADHD could affect how you perform when driving, especially if your symptoms include impulsivity or erratic driving behaviours. You may have difficulty to organise your car, or ensure that you take your medication before driving. If you’re worried about this, you could choose to drive with a friend or only drive when you’ll be driving on your own in the car.
The negative portrayal by Panorama of private care in ADHD assessments is apparent. We hear from a lot of adults who are diagnosed without a drug titration, and then must return to their GP and stand at the end of the line to undergo an NHS assessment because they were’sneaked into the private clinic. This not only discredits the NHS but also contributes to the stigma surrounding the condition, which makes many sufferers feel judged, even by family members.