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 they are over-diagnosing the condition.

Many people are seeking an independent ADHD diagnosis because they don't want to wait for a referral from NHS. It can take months to get diagnosed by your GP.

Signs and symptoms

There are many treatment options for those suffering from ADHD symptoms that affect your work and personal life. This could include psychotherapy or medication. Understanding your symptoms and how they impact your life will help you choose the best treatment.

The main symptoms and signs of adult ADHD are impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. While we all display certain behaviors in a few instances, those with ADHD do so more often and with greater frequency. These issues can cause major issues in their lives and have a negative impact on their relationships, their work performance, and overall health.

ADHD can make it hard to concentrate, listen and follow directions. It can cause problems at home and at school and cause people to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. It can also cause people to feel anxious and fidgety and make them have trouble planning and organizing tasks. It can create problems with appointments and responsibilities. It can also cause people to forget important things like money, keys or mobile phones.

ADHD symptoms can cause issues with sleep and eating and can have a negative impact on overall well-being and health. 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 decrease the effects they have on your life. You will need a psychiatrist or another qualified healthcare professional to discuss your issues. You will be asked to explain the symptoms and how they impact your daily life, which includes your family, work and social life. The doctor will then recommend the most effective treatment plan for you.

You could be referred by your GP to an adult ADHD specialist or you can contact Priory to arrange for an assessment yourself. If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD, it is possible to get an agreement to share care for medication with your GP so that you only pay NHS prescription charges (as long that your GP agrees to this and you've been stabilized). This is possible at a cost.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of ADHD is the first step in finding the most effective treatment for your symptoms. Treatment options can differ based on the severity of your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. It could be medication, cognitive therapy or coaching. The best approach is to receive a thorough evaluation and diagnosis by a specialist in adult ADHD. If your GP is unwilling to refer you to a specialist, you may request a referral from an private healthcare clinic like Priory or another well-known hospital or wellness center that specializes in adult ADHD assessments. They are experts in determining ADHD and can give you a clear diagnosis within a few weeks.

The diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be more difficult than it is for children, because the symptom guides used by psychologists were developed to identify problems in children. In addition to taking your medical history, your doctor will likely conduct a medical interview and might also use questionnaires. Some doctors will even conduct an MRI of your brain to determine if your brain is functioning as it should.

A thorough assessment of ADHD will also include a mental health screening as about 80% of adults with ADHD also have another condition such as autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To be properly assessed, always consult a specialist psychiatrist or a therapist who is specialized in mental health.

If you're not sure who to call to get an evaluation or a diagnosis, talk to your GP or call your insurance company. They will be able to tell you which doctors have experience 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 to get recommendations for professionals in your area. If there's an ADHD support group in your area you can ask for recommendations from those who attend the group.

A complete ADHD assessment usually takes 1.5 hours to perform and includes an online test, a medical interview, and the completion of various validated assessments. The result of the test is a thorough report that your specialist can send to your GP or write to third parties.

Medication

If you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD and they are impacting your daily life or relationships you should seek assistance from an expert. The first step is to visit your GP (family doctor) and request that they refer you for an assessment. The GP will assess your symptoms and look over documents such as school reports. They will only refer you to specialists if they believe that you meet the criteria of a diagnosis.

You should schedule an appointment with the specialist once you have been recommended. The doctor will discuss your symptoms, your history and family history. They will also assess the current state of your health and your lifestyle. They may suggest medication to help control your symptoms. They will discuss the potential risks and benefits of the medication and decide which is the best option for you.

Medications to treat ADHD are referred to as stimulants. The most frequently used medication is methylphenidate. It is a stimulant in the brain. It can be prescribed as immediate-release tablets, taken two or three times per day or as modified release tablets, which are taken once per day and released throughout the day. Methylphenidate can be used in teens, adults and children. Your doctor 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, initially named The ADHD Scandal but later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Expose, is a good example.

The NHS is struggling to meet the demand for ADHD assessments, treatment and assessment. However, this should not, detract from those who want to be diagnosed with ADHD and treated. The fact that a healthcare professional charges for their services, it does not mean that they are able to evade rules or ignore evidence-based practice. They must adhere to the guidelines established by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. This is also true for GPs, psychiatrists, and private ADHD specialists.

Treatment

The right diagnosis of ADHD is essential to manage your symptoms. Your physician may refer you to a private clinic for assessment for ADHD, such as Priory Hospital or a wellbeing center. The clinic will give you an entire report of your findings. They will also help you manage your symptoms to improve your overall health and live an enjoyable life.

The first step is to fill in an assessment form. In general, it will require you to rate your conduct in different situations, like at home, school, work and with friends. You might be asked to bring someone from your family for support. Your therapist will use the details you provide to develop the treatment plan tailored to your needs. They will look at your symptoms and how they book adhd assessment affect you in different contexts and your current life difficulties. They will also suggest other treatments that may be beneficial, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

After a thorough assessment the doctor can prescribe medication. They'll take into consideration your symptoms, your age and other factors. They'll also take into consideration whether other disorders like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms.

To make a precise ADHD diagnosis A thorough exam is needed. This involves taking a medical history, conducting physical and psychological tests, and also analyzing your answers to questions. The doctor will also discuss any other health issues you've had and will also search for other possible causes of your symptoms, such as thyroid problems or depression.

In some cases the psychiatrist or GP will decide that you do not meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis. It could be that the symptoms are too broad or an alternative condition is better suited to explain your symptoms. If you're not pleased with the decision you may request an additional opinion from a different psychiatrist or GP.

In addition to prescribing medications and therapists, your psychologist can also assist you in establishing strategies for coping with the challenges of living with ADHD. They'll offer advice on how to deal with your issues at school, at work and at home. They will also give you support and guidance in developing a positive self-image so that you can conquer your symptoms.