iampsychiatry.com suffering from ADHD may need to be referred by a GP to a private health professional for an assessment. This can be done in person, or online via video call.
Panorama, a BBC investigation has revealed that certain clinics offer a faulty diagnosis. This can put vulnerable people at risk.
What is the outcome if I don't receive an answer to my question?
A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment and help reduce feelings of self-doubt and confusion. Having a diagnosis also helps family members know the symptoms and how it impacts the daily activities of a person. This could lead to better communication and a better understanding of ADHD.
In the UK, you should first talk to your GP about the reasons you think you may have ADHD. Your GP should take your concerns seriously and refer you to an assessment with a specialist. You can accelerate the process by asking your GP to sign up for an option that lets you choose your preferred provider.
You will then undergo an extensive psychiatric examination which includes a thorough clinical interview and psychological testing. Bringing a family member along is always beneficial. After your evaluation the doctor will give a clear diagnosis of ADHD and offer recommendations for treatment. The appointment should last for two sessions.
A private diagnosis specialist for adhd can assist you in avoiding the pitfalls of trying to obtain a diagnose through 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 does not determine that you have ADHD the doctor should explain why. It could be that they don't believe you meet the criteria for this disorder, or that they think other conditions better explain your behavior (symptoms). This is fine and shouldn't discourage you from seeking a second opinion.
Adults often struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals don't understand their symptoms. They may be told their problems are a result of not trying to do enough or are incompetent or negligent. It can be frustrating, but you should keep in mind that these stereotypes aren't supported by evidence from science.
What happens if I don't agree?
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to get an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition or how to recognize it. Others may dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or believe that the person is masking the symptoms. Some GPs may also be confused by the differences between ADHD and other mental health issues such as depression (everyone is down at times) or anxiety (which can manifest with the same symptoms).
In some cases medical professionals who are not familiar with ADHD might confuse the person's behavior with that of their uncontrolled ADHD or think that the person suffers from anxiety or depression due to their unmanaged ADHD. This can be particularly difficult for women suffering from ADHD who's symptoms may be more subtle and difficult to miss. This confusion can cause people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that are not effective.
Some private assessment providers require a letter of recommendation 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 ADHD assessments are referred to, and then immediately rejected by the GPs).
The GP who assesses you will be looking to inquire about your personal life and how your ADHD symptoms affect it. This could include questions about your job, home and family life, based on the service provider. They'll also discuss the various kinds of medication available to treat ADHD and will discuss which might be best for you. The majority of doctors will suggest stimulant medication, but if it doesn't work for you, they may suggest a nonstimulant, such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.
Once you have a diagnosis, the clinician will write to your GP with paperwork that sets out the diagnosis and the way in which you should be treated. This is known as a "shared care agreement". Certain doctors will sign these agreements, but not all of them will. If your GP doesn't, you will need to continue to pay privately for your appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I am diagnosed, but I do not want to undergo medication or another treatment?
Many of the signs of anxiety and depression are the same as those for ADHD, so a mental health professional can assist in developing the right treatment plan to meet the specific requirements of each individual. Early treatment is essential and may involve talk therapy or a medication. It could also include lifestyle changes. Children who suffer from ADHD may also be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern or aggression toward other people or serious infringements of social norms and guidelines at school, home or in the company of friends.
What happens if you decide to drive?
As the DVLA is adamant about ADHD as a impairment, having the condition could make it more difficult for you to get your driver's licence. However this is only the case if your symptoms have a significant and long-term impact on your daily living. It is recommended to discuss this with your physician.
ADHD can also affect your driving performance particularly if you show inattention and unstable driving habits. You may find it difficult to organise your car, or remember to take your medication before driving. If you are concerned about this, you may choose to drive with a friend or only drive when you are certain you'll be the only driver in the car.
The negative image of Panorama's private care in ADHD assessments is evident. We hear from many adults who are diagnosed without a drug titration test, but then have to go back to their GP and stand at the back of the queue to undergo an NHS assessment because they were 'sneaked into the private clinic. This doesn't just denigrate the NHS and increases the stigma associated with a condition that many people feel they are being judged for, even by their family members.