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 feel they cannot wait for an NHS referral. Referrals from your GP can take a few months.
Signs and symptoms
If you are struggling with ADHD symptoms that impact on your work and personal life, there are treatments available. These can include psychotherapy and/or medication. Understanding your symptoms and their impact on your life will allow you select the appropriate treatment.
The primary signs and symptoms of adult ADHD are hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. While we all display some of these behaviors in a few instances, those with ADHD exhibit them more frequently and in greater amounts. These symptoms can cause serious problems in their life and have a negative effect on their relationships, work performance, and overall well-being.
ADHD can cause problems with concentration, listen and follow instructions. It can cause problems at school or at home and could cause people to feel overwhelmed and angry. It can also cause people to feel agitated and irritable, and make them have trouble planning and organizing their tasks. It can create problems with appointments and responsibilities. It can also lead to forgetting important things like money, keys, or mobile phones.
The symptoms of ADHD can also cause problems with eating and sleeping which can have a negative effect on overall health and wellbeing. In some instances, untreated ADHD may be associated with anxiety and depression.
There is no cure for ADHD however treatment can help you improve your symptoms and lessen the impact they have on your daily life. You will require a psychiatrist or another qualified healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms. You will be asked to explain the symptoms and how they impact your daily life, including your work, family and social life. They will then recommend the best treatment plan for your requirements.
You can be directed by your GP to an adult ADHD specialist or you can contact Priory and arrange an assessment on your own. If you have been diagnosed with adult ADHD it is possible to create a shared care agreement with your GP to pay only NHS prescription costs. This can be done at an additional cost.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is the first step in finding the most effective treatment for your symptoms. Based on the specific symptoms you experience and how they impact your life, treatment can vary from medication to cognitive behavioral therapy to coaching. The best choice is a thorough evaluation and diagnoses by an adult ADHD specialist. If your doctor refuses to recommend you, request an appointment with an independent healthcare clinic such as Priory or any other well-known hospital that specializes in adult ADHD evaluations. They are experts in diagnosing ADHD and are able to provide a precise diagnosis in just a few short weeks.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be more difficult than in children because the symptom guides used by psychologists were created to identify problems in children. In addition to taking your medical history, your doctor is likely to conduct a clinical interview, and may also employ questionnaires. Some doctors might even conduct a brain scan to see if your brain is working the way it should.
A thorough evaluation of ADHD will also include a mental health check as around 80% of adults who have ADHD have a different condition such as autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To ensure that you are properly assessed, always consult a specialist psychiatrist or a therapist that specializes in mental health.
If you are unsure who to call to get an evaluation or a diagnosis, ask your GP or contact your insurance company. They will be able to tell you which specialists are experienced in diagnosing adults with 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 of professionals in your region. Also, if there's an ADHD support group in your area, ask for recommendations from people who are part of the group.
A thorough ADHD assessment usually takes 1.5 hours and includes an online test and a clinical interview, as well as the completion of various valid assessments. The results of the test will be a thorough report which your specialist can send directly to your GP or in a letter.
Medication
If you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD and they are affecting your relationships or everyday life, you should seek assistance from a professional. You should first visit your GP and request an appointment to conduct an assessment. The GP will assess your symptoms and review documents such as school reports. They will only refer you to specialists if they feel that you meet the criteria of a diagnosis.
Once you are recommended to a specialist, you must make an appointment with them. The doctor will review your symptoms, medical history and family history. They will also review your health and lifestyle. They may suggest that you consider medication to control your symptoms. They will explain the benefits and risks of these medications and determine which one is best for you.
The medications used to treat ADHD are known as stimulants. The most commonly used medication is methylphenidate. It enhances brain activity and can be prescribed as tablets that are immediate-release and taken two or three time each day or modified release tablets taken once each week and released over the day. Methylphenidate is suitable for adults, adolescents and children. Your specialist will discuss with you the duration you should take the medication.
Certain media coverage of private ADHD assessment and treatment can give an impression that these clinics' are "shady". One example is the BBC Panorama documentary originally named The ADHD Scandal, but was later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Explicit.
There is no doubt that the NHS is struggling to meet the demand for ADHD assessments and treatment. However, this should not be a reason to deny the fact that people who would like to be diagnosed and treated for ADHD should have access to high-quality healthcare. The fact that a professional is charged for their services does not mean that they can ignore evidence-based practices or bend the rules. They must adhere to the guidelines established by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. That is true of GPs, consultant psychiatrists and private ADHD specialists too.
Treatment
Getting the right diagnosis for ADHD is an important step to manage your symptoms. Your doctor may recommend an individual clinic for evaluation for ADHD, such as Priory Hospital or a wellbeing center. The clinic will provide you with complete information about the results. They will also help you manage your symptoms to improve your overall health and lead an enjoyable life.
The first step is to fill in an assessment form. It will typically ask you to rate your behave in various situations. For instance at school, work or with your friends. You might also be asked to bring a family member with to provide support. Your therapist will utilize the information you provide to formulate an individual treatment plan specific to your needs. They will assess your symptoms and how they affect you in various contexts, and the current issues you face. They will also suggest any other treatments that may be beneficial, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
After you've completed an assessment, your doctor will prescribe medication if necessary. They will consider your symptoms, your age and other factors. They'll also consider whether other medical conditions such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms.
To make a precise ADHD diagnosis, a thorough examination is required. This includes taking a medical history, taking psychological and physical tests, as well as analysing your responses to questions. The doctor will ask about any other health issues you have had and will look for other possible causes of your symptoms, like depression or thyroid issues.
In some cases, check here a psychiatrist or doctor may decide that you do not meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis. This might be because the symptom list is a bit too broad, or it might be that a different disorder is more likely to explain your symptoms. If you aren't satisfied with the choice you made you may request a second opinion. This could be from an GP or psychiatrist.
In addition to prescribing medications and therapists, your psychologist can also help you develop strategies for coping with the challenges that come with living with ADHD. They'll give you suggestions on how to deal with your symptoms at school or at work, as well as at home. They'll also offer you assistance and guidance in developing a confidence in yourself, so that you can conquer the effects of your symptoms.