ADHD Private Diagnosis

An adult suffering from ADHD may need to be referred by a GP to a private healthcare professional to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person, or via video conference.

The BBC's Panorama investigation has exposed clinics that provide inaccurate diagnoses. This could put vulnerable patients at risk.

What happens if I do not receive an appointment?

A medical diagnosis can provide you access to treatments and decrease feelings of self-doubt or confusion. The diagnosis can help family members better understand the condition and how do you get an adhd diagnosis it impacts the daily activities of a person. This can lead to better relationships and a better understanding of ADHD.

In the UK, the first step is to speak with your GP and discuss the reason you think you might have ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and recommend you to an expert for an assessment. This process will be quicker if you ask your GP to sign up for a plan which allows you to select your preferred provider.

Then, you will undergo a thorough psychiatric assessment that includes a detailed psychological test and clinical interview. A family member or friend to the appointment is always beneficial. After the assessment, the specialist will provide an accurate diagnosis of ADHD and provide suggestions for treatment. It is recommended that you plan for your appointment to last around two sessions.

Getting a diagnosis from an adhd private add diagnosis adult specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that can arise when trying to get an appointment with the NHS. When delivering care to you the healthcare professionals must remain in line with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.

If your doctor doesn't identify you as having ADHD the doctor should explain the reason. You may not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they might believe that another condition could better explain your symptoms. This is perfectly fine and shouldn't deter you from seeking a second opinion.

One of the primary reasons why adults struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood or dismissed by their GP or other medical professionals. They may be told that their issues are the result of not trying to do enough or are negligent or lazy. It can be difficult, but keep in mind that these myths aren't supported by evidence from science.

What happens if I don't agree with the diagnosis?

Many people suffering from ADHD have difficulty getting an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition, or even how to recognize it. Some may dismiss the symptoms or assume the person is concealing the symptoms. Some doctors may also be confused by the differences between ADHD and other mental health issues like depression (everyone feels down sometimes) or anxiety (which may present with similar symptoms).

Some medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD may mistake the person's behavior as an indication of their untreated ADHD or believe that they are suffering from depression or anxiety disorder due to it. Women suffering from ADHD are often difficult to identify because their symptoms are typically more subtle and difficult to identify. This confusion can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD by taking antidepressants as well as other medications that are not effective.

Some private assessment providers will require a written consent from your GP before they can take your appointment. This process can be complicated due to the fact that NHS doctors may not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred and then promptly rejected by doctors).

The GP will ask you questions about your lifestyle and how ADHD symptoms affect it. Depending on the provider it could include questions about your work, home and family. They will also talk about the different types of medication available to treat ADHD and will discuss which might be best for you. Most clinicians will recommend stimulant medications however if they don't work for you, they may suggest a nonstimulant like Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.

Once you receive a diagnosis the doctor will send you a document to your GP that details the diagnosis and recommended treatment. This is known as a "shared care agreement". Some doctors are in agreement with these agreements but not all. If your GP does not, you will have to continue paying privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I'm diagnosed adhd but don't want to receive medication or any other treatment?

A mental health professional can assist to develop a treatment program that is tailored to each individual's needs. Early treatment is essential and could include therapy or medicine. It could also involve lifestyle adjustments. Children with ADHD could be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggression or aversion towards others or serious violations of social norms and regulations at school, home or with friends.

What happens if you want to drive?

As the DVLA considers ADHD as a impairment, having the condition can make it more difficult to get your driver's license. However it is only applicable when your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your daily living. This is something that you would need to discuss with your doctor.

In the same way, having ADHD can affect how you drive in particular when your symptoms include impulsivity or erratic driving behaviours. As a result, you might find that you have difficulty with organising your car or remembering to take medication prior to driving. If you're concerned about this, you can opt to drive with someone else or only drive when there is no one else in the car.

As you can see that the Panorama programme gave a very negative and biased view of private care for ADHD assessments. Many adults have reported to us that they were given an assessment in an private clinic with no medication adjustment. They then had return to their GP to wait in the line for an NHS assessment. This does not just discredit the NHS but also contributes to the stigma that surrounds a condition that makes many people feel belittled by family members.