ADHD Diagnosis - Holding Private Clinics to Account
BBC Panorama's investigation of private clinics that diagnose ADHD is holding them to account. It is claimed that private clinics are knowingly over-diagnosing ADHD.
Many people are seeking an independent ADHD diagnosis because they don't want to wait for a referral from the NHS. Referrals from your GP can take several months.
Symptoms
There are a variety of treatment options if you suffer from ADHD symptoms that affect your work and personal life. This may include psychotherapy or medication. It is important to take the time to comprehend your symptoms and how they impact on your life is crucial and can help guide the treatment you receive.
The primary symptoms and signs of adult ADHD are impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone exhibits certain of these behaviors at times, those with ADHD do so more often and with greater frequency. These issues can cause major problems in their lives, and they can affect relationships and work performance as well as general wellbeing.
ADHD can make it difficult to focus and listen, as well as follow instructions. It can cause problems at home and in school and cause people to feel overwhelmed and angry. It can also make people be irritable and tense and may cause difficulties with organising and planning tasks. It can lead to trouble with keeping track of appointments and obligations, and can also cause people to lose things such as keys, money or even the mobile phone.
ADHD symptoms can cause problems with eating and sleep which can adversely impact overall well-being and health. If not managed, ADHD is often associated with anxiety and depression.
There is no cure for ADHD however, treatment can help you improve your symptoms and lessen the impact they can have on your life. You'll require a psychiatrist or another qualified healthcare provider to discuss your issues. You will be asked to describe the symptoms and how they affect your daily life, including your work, family and social life. The doctor will then recommend the most effective treatment strategy for you.
You can be recommended to an adult ADHD specialist by your GP or you can call Priory yourself and request an assessment. If you've been diagnosed with adult ADHD it is possible to create a shared care agreement with your GP to pay only NHS prescription charges. This can be arranged for an additional cost.
Diagnosis
Being diagnosed as having ADHD is the first step to find the right treatment for your issues. Treatment options can differ based on your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. It could be medication, cognitive behavior therapy or coaching. The best option is an extensive evaluation and diagnosis from an adult ADHD specialist. If your doctor is not willing to refer you, you can request a referral to a private healthcare clinic such as Priory or another well-known health or wellness centre that specialises in adult ADHD assessments. These experts are skilled in diagnosing ADHD and can give a clear diagnosis in just the space of a few weeks.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults is more difficult than it is for children due to the symptom guides used by psychologists were developed to help identify issues in children. Besides taking your medical history, the specialist will likely conduct a medical interview, and may also employ questionnaires. Some doctors may even conduct an MRI of your brain to determine if your brain functions as it should.
A thorough evaluation of ADHD will also include a mental health check as around 80% of adults who have ADHD also have another condition like autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To ensure that you are properly assessed, it is important to visit a psychiatrist therapist who specializes in mental healthcare.
If you're unsure of whom to call to get an assessment and diagnosis, think about asking your GP for a recommendation or calling your insurance company to find out which professionals are on the network and have the knowledge to determine adult ADHD. You can also contact your local chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or CHADD for recommendations on professionals in your area. Finally, if there's an ADHD support group in your local area, ask for recommendations from people who are part of the group.
A full ADHD assessment typically takes 1.5 hours and includes an online test as well as a clinical interview and the completion of various validated assessments. The results of the test will be a comprehensive report that your doctor can send directly to your GP or in a letter.
Medication
If the symptoms of ADHD are impacting your daily life or relationships, you should seek out professional help. The first step is to visit your GP (family doctor) and ask them to refer you for an assessment. The GP will assess your symptoms and look over documents such as school reports. They will typically refer you to a specialist if they believe that you meet the criteria for diagnosis.
It is recommended to make an appointment with the doctor after you have been recommended. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms including family history, and your medical history. They will also review the current health status and lifestyle. They might suggest you take medication to control your symptoms. They will explain the benefits and risks of the medication and determine which one is best 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 tablets that release immediately, taken two or three times per day, or as modified release tablets which are taken once a day and released throughout the day. Methylphenidate is suitable for adolescents, adults and children. Your specialist will discuss with here you how long you should be taking the medication.
Some media coverage of private ADHD assessment and treatment may give an impression that these clinics are "shady". BBC Panorama's documentary, originally titled The ADHD Scandal, later renamed Private ADHD Clinics Expose, is a great illustration.
There is no doubt that the NHS struggles to cope with demand for ADHD assessments and treatment. However, this shouldn't be a hindrance to those who want to be diagnosed with ADHD and treated. Just because a healthcare professional is charging for their services doesn't mean they are free to ignore the rules or ignore evidence-based practice. They must follow the guidelines laid out by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. This is also true for psychiatrists, GPs, and private ADHD specialists.
Treatment
Finding the correct diagnosis for ADHD is a crucial step in addressing your symptoms. Your doctor might refer you to an assessment at a private clinic for ADHD, such as Priory Hospital or a wellness center. The clinic will provide you with the complete report of the results. Additionally, they will assist you in managing your symptoms to help you live a happier life and improve your overall health.
The first step is to fill out the questionnaire. It will typically ask you to rate your behave in different situations. For example at school, work or with your friends. You may also be asked to bring a family member with you to offer assistance. Your therapist will use the information you provide to formulate the treatment plan tailored to your needs. They will look at your symptoms, their effects in different situations, and also your current issues in life. They may also suggest other therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
After you've been assessed, your doctor will prescribe medications if required. They'll consider your symptoms, age, and other factors. They'll also determine if other conditions such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder could be contributing to your ADHD.
A thorough examination is necessary to make an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This includes taking medical history, performing psychological and physical tests and analyzing your responses to questions. The doctor will ask about any other health issues you have had and will examine other possible causes for your symptoms, like thyroid issues or depression.
In some instances, a GP or psychiatrist might decide that you do not meet the criteria for being diagnosed with ADHD. This might be because the symptom list is a bit too broad or that another condition better explains your symptoms. If you're not happy with your decision you may request an opinion from a different psychiatrist or GP.
In addition to prescribing medications and therapists, your psychologist can also assist you in developing strategies for coping with the challenges that come with living with ADHD. They will give you advice on how to manage your symptoms at school, at home and at work. They will also offer assistance and advice on developing a a positive self-image so that you can overcome your symptoms.