Pay Attention: Watch Out For How Private Diagnosis Of ADHD Is Taking Over And What You Can Do About It
Private Diagnosis of ADHD
Adult ADHD assessment and treatment is becoming increasingly difficult to access on the NHS due to the long waiting lists. Many patients are turning towards private clinics for diagnosis and treatment, via out-of-pocket plans or the right to choose arrangements.
BBC Panorama exposed these clinics. However, the process of getting an official diagnosis can be intimidating.
Making a diagnosis
ADHD is a complex condition that affects people of all different ages. Adults suffering from ADHD frequently struggle with managing their symptoms, which can lead to difficulties at home and at work. A private ADHD assessment can help adults get the specialist insight they need to identify and treat their symptoms.
A private diagnosis of adhd will be carried out by a qualified psychiatrist or clinical psychologist. They will analyze your symptoms in detail including how they affect your everyday life. Then, they'll develop the treatment plan based on your requirements. This will include a discussion about medications and other treatments.
If you're concerned that your might have ADHD the first step is to talk with your family doctor. They can refer you to an expert in mental health or suggest an online questionnaire which asks you questions regarding your symptoms. After you have completed the questionnaire, a mental healthcare professional will conduct an interview with you, and compare your answers to the checklist. This is known as an ADHD assessment, and it can be completed in two sessions. It is recommended to have a family member or a close friend to be with you for an extra source of support.
You may also provide your spouse, boss or employer an assessment form to fill out in order to give you feedback on your symptoms. They will also be able to determine if you suffer from ADHD as a child or an adult. You will be asked to rate the frequency of your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. They might also ask you to rate your conduct in different social situations.
Some people don't receive the diagnosis of ADHD until much later in their lives. This can be a stressful experience, especially because medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what a person with ADHD appears like. Be aware that these biases can cause inaccurate or misleading assessments.
BBC Panorama revealed that some private doctors were able to overdiagnose ADHD. This is an issue because when the diagnosis is not correct, it can lead to unsuitable or ineffective treatment. It is essential to choose a provider with experience and a good reputation.
Medication
When someone is diagnosed with ADHD they will usually be prescribed medication. The medication could come in the form antidepressants like Atomoxetine or bupropion, or even stimulants like dexamphetamine or methylphenidate. Many of these medications are in extended-release or longer-acting formulations that build up slowly in your bloodstream, reducing the effects of side effects.
It is important to note that medication can only control ADHD symptoms, and not cure it. Those with untreated ADHD can still struggle with their relationships, work and well-being. Anyone suffering from ADHD must be aware of their symptoms and seek treatment if necessary.
A medical professional is the best person to determine the cause of ADHD and determine the appropriate treatment. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or advanced practice registered nurse. The fact that a healthcare professional is qualified in one of these areas does not mean that they have the expertise to diagnose ADHD and other comorbid disorders among adults and children.
The process of determining the right treatment for children who have been diagnosed with ADHD can be a struggle and lengthy. People who can afford it, can opt to go private for an assessment, but the cost for this could be very high.
There are reports of private providers claiming to over-diagnose ADHD due to inadequate clinical assessments. This could cause issues for patients and doctors, as they will be required to accept prescriptions issued by private clinics.
For adults, it's not possible to get a diagnosis through the NHS however it is possible to have an assessment privately, such as in a Priory hospital or a wellness centre. This can be expensive however, it is possible to transfer the diagnosis to the GP and obtain medications under the NHS when the patient has been stable on their prescription for a certain period of time. Certain health plans with extended coverage will cover this cost. The charity ADHD Foundation offers a free assessment for those who cannot afford to pay.
Therapy
If you're unable improve your ADHD symptoms through medication or you're looking to improve your overall performance and require an aide to motivate yourself, counseling might be beneficial. Through therapy, you'll discover the cognitive distortions that cause negative thinking patterns such as procrastination or impulsivity and learn how to overcome these patterns. Your therapist will help you learn self-management techniques that will help you cope better with ADHD symptoms.
Counseling can be particularly beneficial for adults who have been neglected or abused during childhood, who are struggling with their ADHD diagnosis and feel they've failed their lives because of the disorder's symptoms. They may feel shame or guilt for their inability to interact with others, especially at work and school. Individual therapy can help you build more positive relationships and develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage your emotions.
For adults whose problems with ADHD are more work-related Counseling can assist them in managing their study and work habits and devise strategies to help them overcome workplace obstacles. For instance, your counsellor might advise you to disclose your ADHD to your professor or boss and request accommodations in the workplace or in the classroom. Vocational assessments are also useful in identifying your strengths and weaknesses so that you can adjust your goals to fit them.
To determine the correct diagnosis, a comprehensive mental-health screen is needed. This is crucial since a myriad of other illnesses can look similar to ADHD and around 90% of people who suffer from ADHD will have co-morbid mental health problems such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. GPs are concerned that many private ADHD clinics are failing to perform full mental health screenings and may be overdiagnosing patients. In fact an investigation conducted by the BJGP found that the current arrangements for assessment pathways could be causing unnecessary harm to vulnerable adults by overburdening NHS mental-health services with ADHD referrals.
It's time to simplify the procedure of assessing and diagnosing ADHD. The BBC's Panorama expose is likely to trigger changes in how ADHD is assessed and managed. Adults who suffer from ADHD can still consult an independent provider for an accurate and cost-effective diagnosis.
Support
A consultation with a specialist is an excellent first step in case you suspect that you or someone else you know could have ADHD. It's important to describe the symptoms you or the person you know has been experiencing and how they have affected your life. This will help your clinician understand what you've been going through.
Many are concerned that the NHS is not taking enough steps to identify ADHD. Ongoing is in response to an BBC Panorama report which claimed private psychiatrists were unable to diagnose the condition. The reality is that doctors are overwhelmed with referrals for ADHD tests, and it can take months to see a specialist, leaving patients anxious and stressed while they wait for an answer.
Adults, who are generally in the workforce, can't afford to wait for months. Some people are turning to private clinics to receive their diagnosis and treatment as fast as they can. This can be expensive however, and the cost isn't usually covered by health insurance.
It's often a relief to receive a diagnosis of ADHD however, it could also be a source of confusion about one's identity and how they fit within society. It is essential to take time to take your time and process your emotions, particularly when you're feeling overwhelmed. It can be helpful to discuss these feelings with a friend or therapist, or with other people who share similar experiences.
Adults with ADHD might require assistance at school or at work to ensure they can reach their potential. This could be in the form of breaks in the classroom or extra time during exams, and written instructions for tasks. It's a good idea discuss any issues you may be having with your supervisor or teacher, as they might be more inclined to make changes. A diagnosis of ADHD can also make it easier to speak to your family members and friends about mental health struggles. A strong support system is crucial and your loved ones can assist you in managing your condition through medication, therapy or other strategies that could work for you.