ADHD Diagnosis - Holding Private Clinics to Account
BBC Panorama's investigation of
private adhd assessment clinics that diagnose ADHD is holding them to account. Its claimed that they are over-diagnosing the condition.
Many people are looking for an independent ADHD diagnosis because they don't want to wait for a referral from NHS. Referrals from your GP can take a few months.
Symptoms
There are a variety of treatment options if you suffer from ADHD symptoms that impact your work and personal life. These include psychotherapy or medication. It is important to take the time to comprehend your symptoms and how they affect your life is important and will help to guide the treatment you receive.
The primary symptoms and signs of adult ADHD are impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. While we all display certain behaviors at times, those who suffer from ADHD are more likely to do so and in greater amounts. These symptoms cause significant problems in their lives, and they can impact relationships and work performance as well as general wellbeing.
ADHD can cause problems with concentration and listen, as well as follow instructions. It can cause problems at school and home, and make people feel overwhelmed and angry. It can also cause people to feel anxious and fidgety, and cause problems in organising and planning tasks. It can cause problems with keeping appointments and responsibilities, and can also cause people to lose things like money, keys or the mobile phone.
ADHD symptoms can cause issues with sleep and eating which can adversely impact overall health and well-being. If not managed, ADHD is often associated with anxiety and depression.
ADHD is not curable, but treatment may help reduce symptoms and their impact on your life. You will need to discuss your symptoms with a psychiatrist or another qualified healthcare provider. You will be asked to explain the symptoms and how they affect your daily life, which includes your family, work and social life. They will then recommend a treatment plan based on your needs.
You are able to be directed by your GP to an adult ADHD specialist or you can contact Priory and arrange an assessment yourself. If you are diagnosed with adult ADHD, it is possible to get an agreement on shared care for your medication with your GP so that you only pay NHS prescription charges (as long you and your GP accepts this and you've been stabilized). This can be arranged at an additional cost.
Diagnosis
Getting diagnosed with ADHD is an important first step in finding the appropriate treatment for your issues. Depending on your individual symptoms and how they impact your daily life, treatment options can differ from medication to cognitive behavior therapy to coaching. The best approach is to seek an accurate diagnosis and evaluation from a specialist in adult ADHD. If your doctor is unable to refer you, you can ask for a referral to a
Private ADHD assessment Hampshire health clinic such as Priory or another well-known hospital or wellbeing center that specializes in adult ADHD evaluations. These specialists are experts in diagnosing ADHD and can provide a clear diagnosis in just only a few weeks.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults is trickier than diagnosing children because the guidelines for identifying symptoms used by psychologists are actually designed to identify problems in children. The doctor will likely conduct a clinical examination and use questionnaires. Some doctors may even do a brain scan to determine whether your brain is functioning as it should.
A thorough evaluation of ADHD will also include a mental health screening since around 80 percent of people who suffer from ADHD have a different condition like autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To ensure that you are properly assessed, you should always consult a specialist psychiatrist or a therapist who is specialized in mental health.
If you're not sure whom to call to get an evaluation and diagnosis, you might consider asking your GP for recommendations or calling your insurance company to determine which specialists are part of the network and have the experience to diagnose adult ADHD. Alternately, you could contact your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness or CHADD to find recommendations for professionals in your area. Ask those who belong to an ADHD support group to recommend an expert.
A thorough ADHD assessment typically lasts 1.5 hours and includes an online test and a clinical interview along with the completion of a variety of tests that are validated. The results of the test will be a detailed report that your specialist will send directly to your GP or write a letter.
Medication
If the symptoms of ADHD are affecting your everyday life or relationships, you should seek help from a professional. Your first step should be to visit your GP (family doctor) and ask them to recommend you for an assessment. The GP will evaluate your symptoms and examine documents such as school reports. They will only refer you to specialists if they feel that you meet the criteria of a diagnosis.
You should make an appointment to see the doctor after you have been referred. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms as well as your family history and. They will also review your current health and life style. They may suggest medications to manage your symptoms. They will explain the advantages and risks of the medications and work out which is the best option for you.
Treatments for ADHD are known as stimulants. The most commonly used medication is methylphenidate. It is a stimulant in the brain and can be prescribed as immediate-release tablets, taken two or three times per day, or as modified release tablets, that are taken every day and released throughout the day. Methylphenidate is appropriate for adolescents, adults and children. Your doctor will inform you the length of time you'll need to take the medication.
Some media coverage of
private ADHD assessment and treatment can make it appear as if these clinics' are "shady". BBC Panorama's documentary, originally named The ADHD Scandal, later renamed
private adhd assessment edinburgh cost ADHD Clinics Exposed, is a great illustration.
There is no doubt that the NHS struggles to cope with demand for ADHD assessments and treatment. This should not, however hinder those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD and treated. Just because a healthcare professional is charging for their services doesn't mean they can bend the rules or disregard evidence-based practice. They must still follow the guidelines set by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. That is true of doctors, psychiatrists, and private ADHD specialists too.
Treatment
The right diagnosis for ADHD is an important step to manage your symptoms. Your physician might suggest an assessment at a private clinic like Priory Hospital or a wellness centre. The clinic will give you complete information about the results. They will also assist you to manage your symptoms to improve your overall health and lead an enjoyable life.
The first step in the process is a questionnaire. This will usually ask you to rate how you behave in different situations. For instance at work, school or with your friends. You may be asked to bring a family member along with you for support. Your therapist will use the information you provide to formulate a treatment plan that is specific to your needs. They will examine your symptoms, how they affect you in different situations and also your current challenges in life. They will also suggest alternative therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Once you've had an assessment, your doctor will prescribe medication if necessary. They'll consider your symptoms, your age and other factors. They'll also take into consideration whether other medical conditions such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder might be contributing to your ADHD symptoms.
For an accurate ADHD diagnosis, a thorough examination is needed. This includes taking a medical history, taking psychological and physical tests, as well as analysing your responses to the questions. The doctor will also discuss any other health issues that you've encountered, and will also check for other possible causes of your symptoms, such as a thyroid problem or depression.
In some instances the psychiatrist or GP may determine that you don't meet the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis. It could be because your symptoms are too broad or that an alternative condition is better suited to explain your symptoms. If you're not happy with the decision, you can request a second opinion from another doctor or psychiatrist.
In addition to prescribing medications and therapists, your psychologist can also assist you in establishing strategies for coping with the challenges that come with living with ADHD. They'll give you suggestions on how you can manage your symptoms at school, at work and at home. They'll also provide assistance and guidance in developing a confidence in yourself, to help you overcome the effects of your symptoms.
