ADHD Private Diagnosis

A doctor may recommend an adult adhd diagnosis suffering from ADHD to a private health specialist for an assessment. This can be done either in person or via video chat.

Panorama the documentary, a BBC investigation, has revealed that some clinics offer a faulty diagnosis. This puts patients at risk.

What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?

A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment options and help you reduce the feeling of anxiety and self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members understand the condition, and how it impacts a person's life. This can lead to better relationships and a better understanding of ADHD.

In the UK the first step is to talk with your GP and discuss the reasons you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should take your concerns seriously and refer you for an evaluation with a specialist. You can accelerate the process by asking your GP to use an option that lets you choose your personal provider.

The next step is a thorough psychiatric evaluation, which includes a detailed interview and psychological test. A family member or friend along is always beneficial. After your evaluation the doctor will give a clear diagnosis of ADHD and provide suggestions for treatment. The appointment should last for 2 sessions.

Finding a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid the pitfalls that can arise when you attempt to obtain a diagnosis through the NHS. When providing care to you healthcare professionals, they must remain in line with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.

If your doctor does not determine that you have ADHD, he or she must explain why. You may not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they might consider that a different condition could better explain your symptoms. This is okay and should not discourage you from seeking an alternative opinion.

Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their GPs or other medical professionals do not understand them. They may be told that their problems are the result of not trying to do enough or are lazy or negligent. It can be frustrating, but you should remember that these myths aren't supported by evidence from science.

What happens if I don't agree?

Many people suffering from ADHD are unable to obtain a diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition, or even how to recognize it. Some may dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or think that the person is masking these symptoms. Some GPs are also confused about the distinction between ADHD, depression (everyone gets down at times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).

Some medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD may misinterpret the person's behavior for their unmanaged ADHD, or assume that they are suffering from anxiety or depression disorder due to it. Women suffering from ADHD may be difficult to identify because their symptoms are often less obvious and ADHD Private Diagnosis harder to detect. This confusion can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that aren't effective.

Certain private assessment providers require a recommendation letter from your GP to set up an appointment. This procedure can be difficult due to the fact that NHS GPs might not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all adhd adult diagnosis assessments are referred to, and then rejected by the GPs).

The GP who assesses you will be looking to ask some questions about your personal life and how your ADHD symptoms affect it. This could include questions about your work, home, and family, depending on the service provider. They will also talk about the different types of medication available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be best for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medication first but if this doesn't suit you then a nonstimulant medication such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride might be recommended.

When you receive a diagnosis the doctor will send paperwork to your GP which outlines the diagnosis and the recommended treatment. This is called a "shared care agreement". Certain doctors will sign these agreements however not all will. If your GP does not accept these agreements, you will still have to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I'm diagnosed but do not want to receive medication or any other treatment?

A mental health professional can assist to develop a treatment program that is that is tailored to the individual's needs. Early treatment is crucial and ADHD Private Diagnosis could include therapy or medication. It could also include lifestyle changes. Children suffering from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a form of aggression towards others or serious violations of rules and social norms at school, at home or with peers.

What happens if you decide to drive?

The DVLA classifies ADHD as a disability. This can make it difficult for you to obtain your driving license. This only applies when your symptoms have a an extended and significant impact on your daily life. This is something you'll need to discuss with your physician.

ADHD can also affect your driving in particular if you display inattention and unstable driving habits. You may have difficulty to organize your car or make sure to take your medication prior to driving. If you're worried about this, you could choose to drive with a friend or only drive when you know you'll be the only driver in the car.

As you can see that the Panorama program provided a negative and biased view of private care for ADHD assessments. Many adults have told us that they received a diagnosis in private clinics without drug titration. They then had to return to their GP to wait in line to undergo an NHS assessment. This not only discredits the NHS but also contributes to the stigma surrounding a condition that makes many people feel that they are judged, even by their family members.