How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
This week, BBC's Panorama program examined how certain private clinics diagnose adults with ADHD.
The investigation has highlighted some alarming cases. But it also reveals the suffering of those who are caught between two rocks in a difficult place.
The NHS has long waiting periods for adults seeking an ADHD assessment. Many opt to pay for a privately-run assessment.
Symptoms
If you or your child are suffering from symptoms of ADHD, a private ADHD assessment can help you get the answers you've been looking for. ADHD symptoms are often misinterpreted as other disorders, and a correct diagnosis is vital for your health.
The most common symptoms of ADHD are hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. These signs can cause issues at school, at work and in the home. Relationships and emotional wellbeing can be affected by symptoms. Private ADHD assessments can help you understand whether you suffer from ADHD and will give you the treatment you require to live your best life.
It is important that you find a private ADHD assessor who will take the time necessary to assess you individually. The specialist is expected to be prepared for a three-hour assessment session. The specialist will ask how your ADHD symptoms affect your daily life. The specialist will also inquire about your family history as well as any other mental health issues you might have. They may also want to talk to your employer or school to get a better understanding of your situation.
It is crucial that the healthcare professional conducting your personal ADHD evaluation is a trained experienced and skilled psychiatrist. This will ensure you receive the highest level of treatment. The same regulations apply to private healthcare providers just as they do to NHS healthcare professionals. They should also follow the guidelines for best practice which are outlined in NICE.
In addition, it's helpful to have any supporting information you have with you when you attend the assessment. This could include medical and psychological records as well as letters from your GP, questionnaires that you have completed, or the results of the ADHD test. This information is needed by your specialist to assess your symptoms and determine the most effective treatment plan.
It is also important to be aware that medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what someone suffering from ADHD appears like. This can make it difficult to determine a proper diagnosis. This is especially true for people who are people of color, who is gender-specific at birth, or who are not native English speakers.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a complicated disorder that affects every aspect of a person's life. It affects how our brains function, which can affect concentration, impulsivity and working memory. A personal adhd test can help identify the cause and allow the patient to manage their symptoms and improve their lives. Accurate diagnosis can help people find the appropriate treatment to alleviate symptoms, lessen their anxiety and improve their quality of life.
Diagnosis of adult ADHD is a process that involves a thorough examination as well as medical history and questionnaires. Doctors can diagnose ADHD at their discretion, but they have to be attentive to your concerns. They will send you to an assessment. The symptoms of a person will be assessed through clinical interviews and a number of scales for rating that have been validated. It is important that the healthcare professional who is carrying out your assessment has the skills, knowledge and experience to recognize ADHD. The best option is to talk to a psychiatrist or an ADHD specialist nurse. However healthcare professionals working in NHS clinics can also be assessed as they are regulated by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidelines.
However, some people don't receive the diagnosis they require or deserve because of the stigma that surrounds mental health and ADHD. This could be because a GP is hesitant to refer someone to a specialist or has a preconceived idea of what ADHD looks like. private adhd assessment uk can also have difficulty being diagnosed, as they may not show the classic symptoms of ADHD.
It is worth arranging an appointment at a trusted private clinic like Diverse Diagnostics, if you think that your child or yourself may be suffering from ADHD symptoms. They provide online assessments for a variety of neurodevelopmental conditions and can also provide an adult ADHD diagnosis. The first step is to talk with your GP and describe the difficulties you're experiencing at work, at home or in social settings. They should take your concerns seriously and arrange for you to be referred to an ADHD specialist at one of the Priory hospitals or wellbeing centers.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD vary from one person to another however, they can involve medications or other types of therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The type of treatment recommended will depend on the severity and symptom. You should also consider if you have any other mental health issues that may affect your symptoms.
There are fears that certain private clinics are misdiagnosing people with ADHD. This was exposed in an Panorama investigation, which saw an undercover journalist make appointments online with three private clinics, and receive powerful medications following unreliable virtual assessments. The undercover journalist answered questions in a straight and honest manner about his health but did not inform the clinics that he was a journalist.
It is vital that you get your test conducted by an expert in healthcare who is an expert in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists, but also GPs, and other healthcare professionals with specific skills, knowledge and experience in ADHD. To be deemed an ADHD specialist, it's not enough to hold an official license to practice or to be on the NHS Register.
During the ADHD evaluation your doctor will inquire with you about how you feel and what symptoms you are experiencing. The doctor will also ask you about any mental health concerns and your family history. It is crucial to give your fullest answers to these questions, as they are key to determining whether or not you have ADHD.
After the assessment Your doctor will then discuss the next steps with you. This could include a decision on whether or not to prescribe medication and a plan for your future treatment and follow-up. If you wish, you can choose to continue treatment as a privately-paying patient or return to the NHS for shared treatment.
It is important to keep in mind that, when you're diagnosed with ADHD, it can be difficult to obtain the medication you require on the NHS because of the long waiting lists. The "Right to Choose" scheme allows adults in England to get treatment and diagnosis on their own. This is a good option if you can't wait for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment can help a child or teenager recognize and accept their diagnosis and make positive lifestyle adjustments to improve their quality of life. A specialist ADHD assessment is also beneficial for adults who have struggled with the symptoms for many years, affecting their relationships or work.
RTN Mental Health Solutions has a multidisciplinary team comprised of UK located Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists who have years of experience assessing children and adults with ADHD. They offer a comprehensive ADHD evaluation that includes diagnosis and treatment suggestions in accordance with NICE Guidelines. The assessment can be paid in three or five payments at PS195 (excluding medication recommended by clinicians). Some private assessments require an GP referral letter, whereas others do not. Be sure to inquire with your chosen provider to find out their policy.