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ADHD Diagnosis – How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis Private healthcare providers are gaining a foothold on patients who feel let down by logjammed NHS waiting lists. However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation found that certain clinics are giving out unreliable diagnoses via video calls. Usually, a person will be sent a questionnaire to complete by themselves, but also by someone close to them, such as a family member or partner. It is necessary to return this form prior to when an appointment can be made. Symptoms ADHD can be the reason for your frequent loss of focus and inability to finish tasks at work, or getting interrupted by family or friends. This condition can affect up to 8.4% children and 2.5 percentage of adults. It can have a profound impact on both your personal and professional lives. Many people aren't aware that their symptoms result from ADHD and do not seek treatment because they don't know how to do. Many times, they'll attempt to manage themselves but this can be frustrating and may not always be effective. There is no medical or physical test for ADHD. A trained mental health professional will employ diverse information to diagnose the condition, including symptoms lists and standardized behavior rating scales. They may also draw information from people who are familiar with the individual, such as their previous and current functioning, as well as information from those closest to them. Depending on the nature of the person's issues, additional psychological, neuropsychological or learning disabilities testing may also be conducted. It's important that a medical professional check for co-occurring disorders like anxiety and depression in some people suffering from ADHD. A healthcare professional will typically examine for the presence of other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as a thyroid disorder or obesity. Doctors are not able to diagnose ADHD and cannot refer you to a specialist. They may refer you to an Priory hospital, or a wellbeing center for an assessment. If you choose to go on your own, the assessment will be conducted in a clinic and involve filling in questionnaires with yourself, your partner or parents, as well as others who know you well. These questionnaires are based on the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as described in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5). The evaluation process will be carried out by an experienced psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in the diagnosis of ADHD. They will take a thorough account of your history, take detailed notes and discuss your behaviour with you in different environments. This could include at school, at work and at home. You will be asked to assess your ADHD symptoms over the time of a week, and take tests like an assessment of cognitive function. Diagnosis If you suspect that you or someone you know suffers from ADHD, the first step is to see your GP. They might be able refer you to a private specialist such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, who is trained in diagnosing adults who suffer from ADHD. You can also reach out to specialists directly to set up an appointment. Before you can make an appointment with the clinician you'll need to complete an online questionnaire regarding the symptoms you've been experiencing. You will also be asked to supply details regarding your mental health background, including any previous treatment you've received. It is essential to be honest with your clinician about your health issues, as he or she will need an entire history to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will review your medical history of your family and your medical history, as well as your current symptoms. They will then analyze this information to determine if you suffer from ADHD and how severe your symptoms are. They will also consider whether other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, might be causing your symptoms. Based on the circumstances, you may require additional mental, learning disabilities, or neuropsychological testing. This can help rule out other conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms. Certain people with ADHD might also have autism or other learning disabilities which can cause similar symptoms. It is recommended to ask your insurance company for recommendations of specialists who are able to diagnose adults with ADHD. You can also contact an adult group in your area with ADHD to inquire about recommendations. Many people who have been diagnosed with ADHD discover it's an exhilarating feeling to finally have an explanation for why they've had to struggle in their lives. However, it can be difficult to cope with the emotions that come with being diagnosed. It is vital to get the correct diagnosis from a doctor who has experience treating ADHD. This will allow you to take the next steps towards managing your ADHD. Treatment Locating a healthcare professional who has experience in treating adults with ADHD is the first step to get the right diagnosis. This could be a therapist, psychiatrist or psychologist who is experienced in treating adults suffering from ADHD. You could also ask your family doctor to refer you to a nurse practitioner or an ADHD assessment. A private assessment of ADHD differs slightly from a typical psychiatric consultation due to an interview with a plan to assess your symptoms and the way they affect your daily life. Come prepared to talk about your issues with attention and hyperactivity in your relationships, at work or with your hobbies, as well as at school. You'll also need to keep a record of your symptoms and how they've affected your life over time, along with any other mental health issues that you've faced. If the healthcare professional conducting your examination believes that you might be suffering from ADHD, he or she will assess you according to the DSM V criteria. They will use the list of symptoms you've provided and ask questions to determine if you are suffering from at least six signs (symptoms) which have been present in your life for a minimum of 12 months. The healthcare professional will write an account, and then discuss the findings of your test to you. If they find that you don't have ADHD, they will say the reasons why they believe that you don't meet the criteria and suggest a different diagnosis that might better explain your difficulties. It is crucial to discuss treatment options with your doctor once you've been diagnosed. They'll be able to recommend treatments and medications that will aid in managing your symptoms. There are many therapies specifically designed for adults with ADHD, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and mindfulness therapy. A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief, particularly for adults. It could be that it explains a lot about the reasons you've struggled in the past, and it can be empowering and freeing. It is important to remember, however, that many adults experience self-stigma after being diagnosed. Therapy, particularly narrative therapy, can be helpful for people who struggle to tell their own stories differently and change the ways they judge themselves. Support Online services that permit people to receive a quick ADHD diagnosis through a telephone or online questionnaire are becoming more popular as mental health issues are becoming less stigmatized. These services can cut down on the cost and time required for treatment by reducing the time needed to find a psychiatrist, attend an assessment, then schedule an appointment. They also have the advantage of being quicker and easier than navigating the NHS referral and assessment process, which can seem like an endless maze. However, they're not free of criticism. In recent months, there's been a spate of stories and documentaries accusing private diagnostic clinics of overdiagnosing ADHD. The ADHD Scandal was the title of a BBC Panorama documentary. Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is the new title, however the original angle remains the same. Those who seek private ADHD diagnoses are being abused. Psychiatry is a complex field and it is not uncommon for people with ADHD to have symptoms that aren't ADHD. This is why it's crucial to make sure you are assessed by a psychiatrist who is an expert in adult ADHD and has a comprehensive understanding of how it presents in adults. A complete assessment involves collecting data from your friends, family members and school reports. It may also include an assessment form that you fill out prior to the time. Your physician will use these findings to determine whether you suffer from ADHD, and create a holistic plan of treatment which could include medication or therapy. You should also check with your GP to determine whether they're willing to sign a shared care agreement with you and with your psychologist prior to requesting a private ADHD diagnosis. You will only be required to pay the NHS prescription fee for your medication. Some GPs will refuse to do this It's a good idea to confirm this before spending money on an assessment. The right support system in place can help you deal with the symptoms of ADHD and improve the quality of your life. If you're ready to take the first step towards a better future, head over to our ADHD treatment page to find out more about how we can help. You can also request a free, confidential phone consultation with our therapists to determine whether we're the best fit for you.