ADHD Diagnosis - Holding Private Clinics to Account
BBC Panorama's investigation of private clinics that diagnose ADHD is calling them to account. Its claimed that they are over-diagnosing the condition.
Many people are seeking a private diagnosis of ADHD because they believe they cant wait for an NHS referral. Referrals from your GP can take several months.
Signs and symptoms
If you're struggling with ADHD symptoms that impact on your work and personal life, there are treatments available. These can include psychotherapy and/or medication. Taking the time to understand your symptoms and how they impact on your life is crucial and will help to guide the treatment you receive.
The main signs and symptoms of adult ADHD are hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. While we all display some of these behaviors at times, those who suffer from ADHD do so more often and in greater amounts. These issues can cause major problems in their lives and can impact on relationships and work performance as well as general well-being.
ADHD can make it hard to concentrate, listen, and follow instructions. It can lead to problems in the classroom and at home and may cause people to feel overwhelmed and angry. It can also make people feel restless and fidgety, and cause them to have difficulty organizing and planning tasks. It can lead to trouble with managing appointments and responsibilities as well as forgetting things such as money, keys or the mobile phone.
Symptoms of ADHD can also lead to problems with eating and sleeping and can have a negative impact on health and wellbeing overall. In some instances, untreated ADHD can be linked to depression and anxiety.
There is no cure for ADHD however treatment can help you improve your symptoms and lessen the effects they can have on your life. You should discuss your symptoms with a psychiatrist or other qualified healthcare provider. You will be asked to write down the symptoms and how they impact your daily routine, including your family, work and social life. They will then suggest an appropriate treatment plan based on your requirements.
You are 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 sign an agreement to share care for your medication with your GP to ensure that you pay NHS prescription costs (as that your GP agrees to this and you have been stabilised). This can be arranged at an additional cost.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is the first step towards finding the best treatment for your symptoms. Based on the specific symptoms you experience and how they impact your life, treatment can vary from medication to cognitive therapy to coaching. The best option is to get a thorough evaluation and diagnosis from a specialist for adult ADHD. If your doctor is not willing to refer you to a specialist, you may request a referral from an private healthcare clinic like Priory or another well-known health or wellness centre that is specialized in adult ADHD assessments. These specialists are experts in diagnosing ADHD and are able to give a clear diagnosis in just a few short weeks.
Finding out if you have ADHD in adults is more difficult than diagnosing children due to the symptom guidelines utilized by psychologists are actually designed to identify problems in children. The doctor will likely conduct a clinical examination and use questionnaires. Some doctors might even conduct an examination of the brain to determine if your brain is working the way it should.
A thorough evaluation of ADHD will also include a mental health check as about 80% of adults with ADHD have a different condition like autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To ensure that you are properly assessed it is crucial to visit a psychiatrist psychologist who is trained in mental healthcare.
If you're unsure of who to ask to get an evaluation or a diagnosis, talk to your GP or call your insurance company. They can inform you which doctors have expertise in diagnosing adult ADHD and are part of the network. Alternatively, you can also call your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness or CHADD to request recommendations for professionals in your area. Ask members of an ADHD support group if they have any recommendations for a professional.
A comprehensive ADHD assessment typically takes 1.5 hours to complete. It includes an online test, a clinic interview and the completion of various assessments that are validated. The result of the test is a comprehensive report that your specialist will send to your GP or a letter to third parties.
Medication
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD and they are impacting your relationships or daily life, you should seek assistance from a professional. First, visit your GP and request a referral to an assessment. The GP can assess your symptoms and review documents such as school reports. They will only refer you to specialists if they believe that you meet the criteria of a diagnosis.
Once you are referred to a specialist you must make an appointment with them. The doctor will review your symptoms, history and family history. They will also assess the current health status and lifestyle. They may suggest medication to control your symptoms. They will explain the advantages and risks of these medications and determine which one is best for you.
Stimulants are drugs that are used to treat ADHD. The most popular medication is methylphenidate. It enhances brain activity and can be prescribed in immediate-release tablets taken two or three time each day or modified release tablets here taken once every week and released throughout the entire day. Methylphenidate is suitable for adolescents, adults and children. Your doctor will determine how long you should take the medication with you.
Unfortunately, some media coverage of private ADHD assessments and treatments can create the impression that these clinics are'shady'. BBC Panorama's documentary, originally called The ADHD Scandal but later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Exposed, is a good example.
The NHS is struggling to meet the demand for ADHD assessments treatment, assessment and treatment. However, this should not hinder those who want to be diagnosed with ADHD and treated. The fact that a professional charges for their services doesn't mean they are able to ignore evidence-based practices or deviate from the rules. They must still adhere to guidelines set out by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. This is true for GPs, consultant psychiatrists and private ADHD specialists as well.
Treatment
Getting the right diagnosis for ADHD is an important step in addressing your symptoms. Your GP can refer you to an individual specialist clinic, such as an Priory hospital or wellbeing centre for an assessment. The clinic will provide you with an extensive report of the results. In addition, they will help you manage your symptoms so that you can live a more satisfying life and improve your overall health.
The first step of the process is to complete a questionnaire. This will usually ask you to rate your behave in various situations. For example at school, work or with your friends. You may also be asked to bring a family member along with to provide assistance. Your therapist will utilize the information you provide to formulate a treatment plan that is specific to your needs. They will examine your symptoms, their impact in different contexts, and your current life challenges. They may also suggest other therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
After a thorough assessment, your doctor may prescribe medication. They'll take into consideration your symptoms, age and other factors. They'll also determine if other conditions like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder might be contributing to your ADHD.
A thorough exam is essential to make an accurate ADHD diagnosis, and this includes taking medical history, performing psychological and physical tests and analyzing your responses to questions. The doctor will talk with you about 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 some cases, the GP or psychiatrist may determine that you do not meet the criteria 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 are not satisfied with the decision made, you can ask for an additional opinion. This can be from the GP or a psychiatrist.
Your psychologist will prescribe medication and help you devise strategies to deal with the difficulties of living with ADHD. They'll offer advice on how to manage your issues at school, at home, and at work. They will also provide guidance and assistance in creating a confidence in yourself, to help you overcome the effects of your symptoms.