ADHD Private Diagnosis

An adult suffering from ADHD might be referred by their doctor to a private healthcare specialist for an assessment. This can be done in person, or online via video call.

The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed clinics that offer unreliable diagnoses. This can put vulnerable people at risk.

What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?

A medical diagnosis can provide you treatment options and help reduce feelings of self-doubt or confusion. The diagnosis can help family members know the symptoms and how it affects a person's daily life. This can result in stronger relationships and a better approach to managing ADHD.

In the UK, you should first speak to your GP about the reason you believe you may have ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and recommend you to a specialist to be assessed. This process will be more efficient if you ask your GP to use a scheme that allows you to choose your own provider.

The next step is to conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment, which includes an extensive interview and psychological test. It is always beneficial to bring a friend or family member with you for support. After the evaluation the specialist will be able to diagnose ADHD and offer treatment recommendations. You should expect your appointment to last for about two sessions.

Finding a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid the pitfalls that could arise when seeking an accurate diagnosis from the NHS. When providing care to you, the healthcare professionals should remain in line with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.

If your doctor does not find that you suffer from ADHD you should be told the reason. It may be that they don't think you meet their criteria for the disorder, or they believe that other conditions better explain your traits (symptoms). This is totally acceptable and shouldn't stop you from seeking an additional opinion.

One of the most common reasons why adults struggle to obtain a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood or dismissed by their GP or other medical professionals. They might be told that their issues are the result of not trying hard enough or are negligent or lazy. It can be frustrating, but you should be aware that these stereotypes are not supported by evidence from science.

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

Many people with ADHD struggle to receive an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition or know how to recognize it. Some may dismiss the symptoms or assume the person is concealing the symptoms. Some doctors may be confused by the distinction between ADHD and other mental health disorders such as depression (everyone feels down sometimes) or anxiety (which can manifest with similar symptoms).

Certain medical professionals who aren't aware of ADHD may mistake the person's behavior for their unmanaged ADHD or believe that they are suffering from depression or an anxiety disorder due to it. This is especially challenging for women with ADHD who's symptoms may be more subtle and difficult to overlook. This can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that aren't effective.

Some private assessment companies require a recommendation letter from your GP to make an appointment. This can be a difficult process because NHS GPs may refuse to accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred and then rejected by the GPs).

The GP will ask you questions about your lifestyle, and how ADHD symptoms affect it. Depending on the doctor it could include questions about your home, work and family. They will also discuss the various kinds of medication available to treat ADHD and will discuss which might be best for you. Most clinicians will recommend stimulant medication, but if it doesn't work for you, they could suggest a nonstimulant, such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.

If you are diagnosed the doctor will write to your GP with paperwork that sets out the diagnosis and how to.get diagnosed with adhd you should be treated. This is referred to as a "shared care agreement". Some GPs will accept these agreements however not all of them will. If your GP does not, you will have to continue paying privately for your appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I am given a diagnosis, but don't wish to take medication?

A mental health professional can assist develop a treatment plan that is that is tailored to the individual's needs. Early treatment is essential, and it may include therapy, medication or lifestyle changes. Children with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with adhd with Conduct Disorder which is a pattern of aggression toward other people or serious violations of rules and social norms at home, school or with peers.

What happens if I want to drive?

The DVLA defines ADHD as a disability. This could make it harder for you to obtain your driving licence. However it is only applicable if your symptoms have a significant and long-term impact on your daily living. This is something you would need to discuss with your doctor.

Similar to having ADHD can affect how you drive in particular in the case of an impulsive driving style or other irregular driving habits. As a result you may find that you are having trouble organizing your car or remembering to take medication prior to driving. If you are worried about this, you may choose to drive with a passenger or only drive when you know you'll be driving on your own in the car.

As you can see it, the Panorama program gave a highly negative and biased view of private care for adhd diagnosed in adulthood assessments. Many adults have told us that they were given a diagnosis in private clinics without medication adjustment. They had return to their GP to wait in the line for an NHS assessment. This doesn't just discredit the NHS and creates a stigma around a condition that many people think they are judged for, even by their family members.