ADHD Diagnosis - Holding Private Clinics to Account
BBC Panorama's investigation of private clinics that diagnose ADHD is calling them to account. They are alleged to be over-diagnosing the condition.
Many people seek a private diagnosis of ADHD due to the fact that they cant wait for an NHS referral. It could take months to be diagnosed by your GP.
Signs and symptoms
If you're struggling with ADHD symptoms that affect your personal and professional life, there are treatment options available. This includes psychotherapy or medication. It is important to take the time to comprehend your symptoms and how they impact on your life is important and will help to guide the treatment you receive.
The most prominent symptoms and signs of adult ADHD are impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. Although we all demonstrate certain behaviors at times, people with ADHD suffer from them more often than others and to a greater extent. These symptoms can cause serious issues in their lives and have a negative effect on their relationships, their work performance, and overall health.
ADHD can make it difficult to focus and listen, as well as follow instructions. It can cause problems at home and at school and cause people to feel frustrated and overwhelmed. It can also cause people to feel agitated and irritable, and result in them having difficulty planning and organizing tasks. It can lead to difficulties with appointments and obligations. It can also cause people to forget important things like keys, money or mobile phones.
The signs of ADHD can also lead to problems with eating and sleeping, which can have a negative impact on health and wellbeing overall. Untreated ADHD is sometimes associated with anxiety and depression.
There is no cure for ADHD, but treatment can help you improve your symptoms and lessen the effects they can have on your life. You'll need a psychiatrist or another qualified healthcare provider to discuss your issues. You will be asked to explain the symptoms and how they affect your daily life, which includes your family, work, and social life. The doctor will then suggest the most effective treatment strategy for you.
You are recommended to an adult ADHD specialist by your GP or you can call Priory yourself and arrange an assessment. If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD it is possible to sign an agreement on shared care for medication with your GP so that you only pay NHS prescription charges (as as your GP agrees to this and you've been stabilized). This can be done at a cost.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is the first step to finding the best treatment for your symptoms. Treatment options can differ based on your symptoms and impact they have on your life. It could be medication, cognitive therapy or coaching. The best approach is to get an in-depth evaluation and diagnosis by an adult ADHD specialist. If your doctor is not willing to refer you to a specialist, you may request a referral to a private healthcare clinic such as Priory or another well-known hospital or wellness centre that specialises in adult ADHD evaluations. These specialists have expertise in identifying ADHD and can provide you with an accurate diagnosis within a few weeks.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be more difficult than for children due to the symptom guides used by psychologists were developed to help identify issues in children. Apart from taking a medical history, the specialist will likely conduct a clinical interview and might also use questionnaires. Some doctors might even conduct a brain scan to see whether your brain is functioning as it should.
A thorough assessment of ADHD will also include more info a mental health check as about 80 percent of adults who have ADHD also have another condition like autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To be properly assessed, it is important to visit a psychiatrist or therapist who specializes in the field of mental health.
If you're unsure of who to contact to get an evaluation or a diagnosis, ask your GP or contact your insurance company. They can tell you which professionals have expertise in diagnosing adult ADHD and are part of the network. Alternatively, you can also call your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness or CHADD to find recommendations for professionals in your area. Also, if there's an ADHD support group in your community, ask for recommendations from people who attend the group.
A full ADHD assessment typically lasts 1.5 hours and includes an online test and an interview with a psychologist, as well as the completion of several tests that are validated. The outcome of the test is a thorough report that your doctor can send to your GP or send to third parties.
Medication
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD and they are affecting your relationships or everyday life, you should seek out help from a professional. Your first step should be to visit your GP (family doctor) and ask them to send you to an assessment. The GP will be able to assess your symptoms and read documents like school reports. They typically only refer you to a specialist when they believe that you meet the criteria for diagnosis.
Once you are recommended to a specialist, you must make an appointment with them. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms including family history, and your medical history. They will also review your health and life style. They may suggest medications to manage your symptoms. They will explain the benefits and risks of the medications and determine which one is best for you.
Medications to treat ADHD are known as stimulants. The most commonly used medication is methylphenidate. It increases brain activity and is prescribed in immediate-release tablets which are taken twice or three times every day or in modified release tablets that are taken one time every week and released throughout the day. Methylphenidate is appropriate for adults, adolescents and children. Your doctor will inform you the duration you should take the medication.
Unfortunately, certain media coverage of private ADHD evaluations and treatment may give the impression that these clinics are'shady'. BBC Panorama's documentary, originally called The ADHD Scandal and later renamed Private ADHD Clinics Exposed is a great example.
There is no doubt that the NHS struggles to meet demands for ADHD tests and treatments. However, this should not hinder the fact that those who want to be diagnosed and treated for ADHD should have access to high-quality healthcare. Even if a specialist charges for their services, doesn't mean they can disregard research-based practices or evade the rules. They must adhere to the guidelines established by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. This is the case for GPs, psychiatrists, and private ADHD specialists.
Treatment
The right diagnosis of ADHD is crucial for managing your symptoms. Your GP can refer you to a private specialist clinic such as a Priory hospital or wellbeing centre for an assessment. The clinic will give you a full report of the results. Additionally, they will assist you in managing your symptoms so that you can live a happier life and improve your overall health.
The first step is to fill out the questionnaire. Typically, this will ask you to rate your conduct in various situations, like at school, home or at work and with your friends. You may be asked to bring along someone from your family for assistance. Your therapist will utilize this information to develop an individual treatment plan. They will assess your symptoms, their effects in different situations, as well as your current life challenges. They will also recommend any other therapies that could be beneficial, for instance, cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT).
After you've been assessed the doctor will prescribe medication if needed. They'll consider your symptoms, age, and other factors. They'll also take into consideration whether other conditions like bipolar, anxiety, depression disorder may be contributing to your ADHD symptoms.
A thorough exam is essential to make an accurate ADHD diagnosis, and this includes taking a medical history, performing psychological and physical tests, and analysing your responses to questions. The doctor will inquire about any other health issues you've had and look for other possible causes of your symptoms, like depression or thyroid issues.
In some cases the psychiatrist or GP may decide that you do not meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis. This might be because the symptom list is a bit too broad or that a different condition is more likely to explain your symptoms. If you aren't satisfied with the choice you made, you can ask for a second opinion. This can be done by the GP or a psychiatrist.
In addition to prescribing medications, your psychologist will also assist you in developing strategies for coping with the challenges that come with living with ADHD. They'll give you suggestions on how you can manage your issues at school, at home, and at work. They will also give you assistance and guidance to develop a an optimistic self-image to help you overcome your symptoms.