ADHD Diagnosis - Holding Private Clinics to Account
An investigation conducted by BBC Panorama is holding private clinics that diagnose ADHD to account. It is claimed that they are over-diagnosing the condition.
Many people are looking for an individual ADHD diagnosis because they don't want to wait for a referral from the NHS. Referrals from your GP can take a few months.
Signs and symptoms
There are many options for treatment for those suffering from ADHD symptoms that impact your personal and professional lives. These include psychotherapy or medication. Taking the time to understand your symptoms and how they affect your life is crucial and will help to guide the treatment you receive.
The primary symptoms and signs of adult ADHD are impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. Although we all demonstrate certain behaviors at times, people with ADHD are more likely to experience them than others and to a greater extent. These symptoms cause significant problems in their lives and may affect relationships as well as work performance and overall wellbeing.
ADHD can make it difficult to concentrate, listen, and follow instructions. It can create problems at home and in school, and make people feel frustrated and overwhelmed. It can also make people feel restless and fidgety and can cause difficulty in organising and planning tasks. It can cause difficulties with appointments and obligations. It can also cause people to forget important things like money, keys or mobile phones.
ADHD symptoms can also lead to issues with sleep and eating, which can negatively impact overall well-being and health. If not managed, ADHD is often linked to depression and anxiety.
ADHD is not curable, but treatment can reduce symptoms and impact on your life. You should discuss your symptoms with a psychiatrist or another qualified healthcare provider. You will be asked to write down the symptoms and how they affect your daily routine, including your work, family and social life. The doctor will then suggest the most effective treatment plan for you.
You could be directed by your GP to an adult ADHD specialist or you can contact Priory and request an assessment on your own. If you've been diagnosed with adult ADHD it is possible to create an agreement for shared care with your GP to pay only NHS prescription charges. This is possible at an additional cost.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD is the first step to finding the best treatment for your symptoms. Treatment options vary based on your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. It could be medication, cognitive therapy or coaching. The best choice is a thorough evaluation and diagnoses by an adult ADHD specialist. If your GP is unwilling to refer you, you can request a referral from a private health clinic such as Priory or another well-known hospital or wellness centre that specialises in adult ADHD evaluations. These experts are skilled in diagnosing ADHD, and can give a clear diagnosis in just only a few weeks.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults is more difficult than it is for children due to the symptom guides used by psychologists were designed to help identify issues in children. Apart from taking a medical history, your specialist is likely to conduct a clinical interview and may also use questionnaires. Some doctors might even conduct a brain scan to determine whether your brain is functioning as it should.
A thorough evaluation of ADHD will also include a mental health screening since around 80% of adults with ADHD also have another condition such as autism or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To be able to properly assess the condition it is essential to visit a psychiatrist specialist in the field of mental health.
If you're not sure whom to call for an evaluation and diagnosis, you might consider asking your GP for an opinion or contacting your insurance company to determine which specialists are part of the network and have the experience to diagnose adult ADHD. You can also contact your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or CHADD to get recommendations for professionals in your region. Also, if there's an ADHD support group in your local area Ask for recommendations from people who attend the group.
A thorough ADHD assessment will typically take 1.5 hours to complete and includes an online test, a clinic interview and the completion of various validated assessments. The result of the assessment will be a detailed report that your doctor can direct to your GP, or as an email.
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. You should first visit your GP and ask for an appointment to conduct an assessment. The GP will assess your symptoms and review documents like school reports. They will usually only refer you to a specialist when they believe you meet the criteria for diagnosis.
You should schedule an appointment with the specialist once you have been recommended. The doctor will review your symptoms, medical history and family history. They will also assess your health and life style. They may suggest you consider medication to control your symptoms. They will explain the benefits and risks of these here medications and help you decide which is best for you.
Medications to treat ADHD are known as stimulants. The most popular medication is methylphenidate. It works by increasing activity in the brain. It can be prescribed as tablets that release immediately which are taken 2 or 3 times per day, or as modified release tablets which are taken once per day and released throughout the day. Methylphenidate is suitable for adolescents, adults and children. Your doctor will explain to you the length of time you'll need to take the medication.
Unfortunately, some media coverage of private ADHD evaluations and treatment may create the impression that these clinics are'shady'. BBC Panorama's documentary named The ADHD Scandal, later changed to Private ADHD Clinics Exposed, is a good example.
There is no doubt that the NHS struggles to meet demands for ADHD assessments and treatment. However, this should not hinder those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD and treated. The fact that a healthcare professional is charging for their services doesn't mean they are free to ignore the rules or disregard evidence-based practice. They must still follow the guidelines established by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. That is true of doctors, psychiatrists, and private ADHD specialists as well.
Treatment
The right diagnosis of ADHD is crucial for managing your symptoms. Your physician may suggest an assessment at a private clinic for ADHD, such as Priory Hospital or a wellness center. The clinic will give you an extensive report of the results. They will also help you manage your symptoms to improve your overall health and live an enjoyable life.
The first step is to fill out the questionnaire. It will typically ask you to rate your behave in various situations. For example at school, work or with your friends. You might be asked to bring along someone from your family for support. Your counselor will utilize this information to develop an individualised treatment plan. They will examine your symptoms, how they affect you in various contexts, and also your current challenges in life. They will also suggest alternative therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
After a thorough assessment, your doctor may prescribe medication. They'll consider your symptoms, your age, and other factors. They'll also look at whether other conditions like bipolar, anxiety, depression disorder could be contributing to your ADHD symptoms.
To determine a correct ADHD diagnosis, a thorough examination is needed. This includes taking your medical history, taking psychological and physical tests and also analyzing your responses to questions. The doctor will also discuss any other health issues that you've encountered, and will also check for other potential causes of your symptoms, such as a thyroid problem or depression.
In some cases, the GP or psychiatrist will decide that you don't meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis. This might be because the list of symptoms isn't enough, or it might be that a different condition is more likely to explain your symptoms. If you're not pleased with the outcome you can seek an additional opinion from a different doctor or psychiatrist.
In addition to prescribing medication, your psychologist will also help you develop strategies for dealing with the challenges that come with living with ADHD. They'll give you suggestions on how to manage your issues at home, at school and at work. They'll also provide guidance and support in developing an ideal self-image so that you can overcome the effects of your symptoms.