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Getting a Private Diagnosis For ADHD Communication is a challenge for people who suffer from ADHD, especially with co-workers and supervisors. This can make it difficult for them to succeed at school and work. The GP can recommend patients to private professionals who can conduct an ADHD assessment. It's crucial to confirm that your GP will sign a shared care agreement before you start. Assessment In the UK, many adults with ADHD prefer to get their assessment and medication prescribed privately due to long NHS waiting times. Panorama's investigation has revealed that not all private clinics comply with guidelines and could give inaccurate diagnoses. Only psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD in adults and prescribe medication. Counsellors and other mental health professionals cannot diagnose ADHD. The majority of private assessment companies will require you to fill out a series of forms and questionnaires before your appointment, which they'll review prior to your appointment. It is essential to bring these with you and should you need to, if needed, any other information or documents that might be helpful. If you were advised by your GP to them, you should also bring these documents with you. Once your psychiatrist has reviewed the questionnaires, they'll schedule an appointment to discuss the results and their findings. You must bring a list of your symptoms with you (and any documents) as this will be used to assist them in making an informed diagnosis. They will also inquire about your life now and how ADHD has affected you to date. They may recommend talking to an immediate family member or friend about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. During this time, your psychiatrist will discuss whether or not they believe you may be suffering from ADHD and the best treatment options for you. You will receive a thorough written report if they believe that you have ADHD. They will then discuss the findings with you and determine if you should take your diagnosis to your GP so they can be on the same page about your condition, treatment, and management. It is recommended to take this report to your GP to discuss it if you think you might need to have them prescribe medication under a Shared Care agreement with your psychiatrist. It is also important to inform the DVLA if your driving ability is affected by ADHD. Diagnosis If you're thinking about having a private diagnosis it's crucial to know what the process involves. During the examination, you'll most likely see a psychologist or psychiatrist because they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK competent to diagnose ADHD. The assessment will include an extensive examination of your symptoms and how they affect your life. Your mental health professional may also ask you about your family background and any other issues you're dealing with. Your physician will assess your present symptoms and compare them to the criteria for ADHD in adults as set by the American Psychiatric Association. For example, he or will determine if you are having trouble paying attention or following directions, and the extent to which your hyperactivity is causing difficulty keeping up with tasks. Your doctor will also want to know whether you have experienced these symptoms since childhood. This may mean asking your teachers or parents for details on the time when these issues first started to manifest. The specialist will employ a series of tests to help identify whether you are suffering from ADHD, such as the QbCheck. He or she may also conduct a medical exam and ask you for several other tests. It could take up to two sessions. During the interview, your doctor will ask you to provide examples of how your symptoms affect your daily life. The psychologist or psychiatrist may also inquire about your family history, and other issues you face, such as depression. It's vital that you choose the right therapist to carry out your assessment. A reputable clinic, such as Harley Psychiatrists in London, will use a comprehensive assessment to find out whether you have ADHD. They can also provide you with an array of treatment options that are tailored to your particular needs. Private providers could be diagnosing ADHD patients too quickly, without a thorough evaluation. The BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a clinic that diagnosed a patient as having ADHD through a video chat and provided him with powerful drugs. A private diagnosis won't be accepted by the NHS. Your doctor won't sign a form transferring your medication treatment from NHS to your physician. This is because many GPs do not have the expertise, skills, and experience to diagnose ADHD. Medication The process for getting an adult diagnosis of ADHD is complicated and requires gatekeepers. The attitudes and knowledge of these people can determine the ability of a person to receive treatment. If your GP is unwilling to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment or if you are not happy with the waiting time, then you may consider the option of a private diagnosis. Private assessments cost up to PS800. They consist of an interview with a psychiatrist, and the report. Some people find the cost prohibitive, however you can obtain an agreement to share care with your doctor which allows you to pay NHS prescription fees and see an individual physician for treatment. There is concern however that some private practitioners over-diagnose ADHD particularly through online clinics. In the recent BBC Panorama “expose”, there were several instances where online assessments were not carried out correctly. In addition, people who are addicted to alcohol or drugs frequently exhibit symptoms that can be confused with ADHD. These symptoms are known as comorbid, and can include depression or anxiety. It is important to have an evaluation and diagnosis for psychiatric issues before taking stimulants (methylphenidate and amphetamines) for the condition. These drugs are classified as class B and may cause serious health issues within the body if they are not taken in accordance with prescription. They also carry a significant risk of addiction. Many people who have an addiction history to drugs and alcohol abuse can ease their symptoms by changing their surroundings, delegating tasks and hiring assistants. It is important to note, however, that these strategies don't replace an official diagnosis and psychiatric assessment for the purposes of the Equality Act. Psychologists and counsellors are able to provide an ADHD evaluation however they are not able to prescribe medication. In certain instances, psychiatrists or psychiatric nurses can provide this assessment, however only if the individual is trained in the process of diagnosing and is licensed as a medical professional. Some individuals are not diagnosed with ADHD because the GP thinks they don't meet the criteria or is considered that another diagnosis is more appropriate to explain the individual's problems. This is not necessarily a bad thing however it can be frustrating when the symptoms are troubling and affecting your daily life. Therapy Having a private diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that therapists are permitted to deviate from the norm or be less strict than if they were working within NHS guidelines. Patients who are seen in a private environment must undergo an assessment that conforms to the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines and best practices. If a private healthcare provider is found to have overdiagnosed ADHD the patient is likely to be disciplined by appropriate authorities. In addition to a thorough psychological assessment Many adults diagnosed with ADHD also benefit from cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT) and mindfulness techniques. Therapists will collaborate closely with clients to assist them overcome obstacles and develop strategies that can improve their life and reduce the effects of ADHD symptoms. iampsychiatry.uk can be done in person or online via video conference, depending on the location of the client. CBT aims to identify the negative behaviors and teach healthy coping techniques. These habits include procrastination and poor time management as well as other symptoms of adult ADHD. Therapists work with clients to teach them techniques that will reduce their symptoms, while also assisting them in building a supportive environment around themselves. Many people who are diagnosed with adult ADHD are relieved to know the reason for their struggles. However, they might discover that their diagnosis triggers lots of emotions that are difficult to deal with. Fortunately, there are many support groups for those who need it. If you're interested in receiving treatment for their ADHD symptoms A mental health professional will provide them with a treatment plan which includes psychotherapy and medication. Medication can improve a patient’s concentration, help them not lose things, and allow them to sit still longer so they can learn and pay attention. A psychiatrist can prescribe stimulants like methylphenidate to those suffering from ADHD symptoms.