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Getting a Private Diagnosis For ADHD People suffering from ADHD can have difficulty communicating with their supervisors, coworkers, and teachers. This can make it hard for them to achieve success in school and at work. GPs may refer patients to private providers for an ADHD assessment. However, it's important to confirm that your GP will sign an agreement for shared care before you start. The Assessment In the UK there are many adults who suffer from ADHD choose to have their assessment and medication prescribed privately because of lengthy NHS waiting times. However, as this Panorama investigation reveals, not all private clinics are monitored and may be handing out incorrect diagnoses. Psychiatrists are the only medical professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD and prescribe medications for adults. Other mental health professionals like counsellors cannot do this. The majority of private assessment providers require clients to fill out an array of questionnaires and forms prior to your appointment. They will review these forms prior to your appointment. It is important to take these forms with you and should you need to, if needed additional information or documents that might be useful. If you were recommended by your GP to them, it is important to bring these documents along with you. Once your psychiatrist has looked over the questionnaires, they'll schedule an appointment to discuss your results and the results they have derived. Bring a list with your symptoms (and any evidence) to help them make a diagnosis. They will also ask you about your current situation and how ADHD has affected you in the past. They may also suggest speaking to a family member or close friend about your symptoms and how they affect your daily routine. During this time, your psychiatrist will be able to discuss with you whether they believe that you might be suffering from ADHD and what the best treatment options are for you. If they feel you do have ADHD, you will receive a written report detailing their findings. They will talk with you if they feel you are suffering from ADHD and will decide whether it is best to report this diagnosis to your GP. This way, both parties can be on the exact the same page with regards to your condition, treatment, and management. You should discuss this report with your GP should you wish them to prescribe medication as part of an Shared care agreement with your psychiatrist. You should also inform DVLA that your driving ability is affected by ADHD. Diagnosis If you're considering having a private diagnosis it is important to know what the procedure involves. You'll likely see a psychologist or psychiatrist during the assessment, as they are the only healthcare professionals who are qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK. The assessment will include an in-depth discussion of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. Your mental health professional will inquire about your family history and any other issues you're dealing with. Your specialist will look at your current symptoms and compare them to the criteria for ADHD for adults, as defined by the American Psychiatric Association. For instance, he/ she will assess whether you have trouble paying attention or following directions, and whether your hyperactivity causes difficulties in keeping up with tasks. Your doctor will want to know if you have experienced these symptoms since your childhood. This could include asking your parents or teachers for details on the first time these symptoms started to appear. The specialist will use tests such as QbCheck to determine if you suffer from ADHD symptoms. He or she will also conduct a medical interview and ask you to complete a number of other assessments. This could take as long as 2 sessions. During your interview, you will be asked to provide examples of how symptoms impact your daily life. The psychiatrist or psychologist will also review your family background and any other issues you're facing such as depression. It's important to choose the right therapist for your assessment. A reputable facility like Harley Psychiatrists, in London will conduct a thorough examination to determine whether you have ADHD. They will also provide you with an array of treatment options. There is a concern that certain private clinics are diagnosing patients with ADHD too quickly, without conducting a thorough assessment. BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a clinic that diagnosed a patient with ADHD through a video call and gave him powerful medication. It's important to note that a private diagnosis is not valid in the NHS because your doctor will not sign a shared care agreement to transfer your medication to the NHS. This is because most GPs do not have the expertise, knowledge, or experience to diagnose ADHD. Medication The process of obtaining an adult diagnosis of ADHD is a complex one that involves gatekeepers. The attitudes and knowledge of these people can make or break a person's ability to get treatment. You might want to consider a private diagnosis if your GP refuses to refer you to an NHS ADHD assessment, or if you are dissatisfied with the wait time. Private assessments can cost up to PS800 and require you to fill out questionnaires, an appointment with a psychiatrist and a psychiatric report. Some people find the cost too expensive, but you can get an agreement for shared-care with your doctor that permits you to pay NHS prescription costs and visit an individual physician for treatment. There is a concern however that some private providers are over-diagnosing ADHD particularly through online clinics. A recent BBC Panorama 'expose' highlighted a number of cases in which online assessments were not correctly carried out. People who are addicted alcohol or drugs are often exhibiting symptoms similar to ADHD. These are known as comorbid signs and can include depression, anxiety or a substance use disorder. Before taking stimulants to treat this condition (methylphenidate or amphetamines) it is essential to obtain a psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation. These are drugs classified as class B and may cause serious problems in the body if they are not taken in accordance with prescription. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis pose a significant risk of addiction. Many people with a history of alcohol or drugs use can reduce their symptoms by adjusting their surroundings, delegating tasks and employing assistants. It is important to keep in mind that these actions are not a substitute for a formal diagnosis and a psychiatric assessment for the purposes of the Equality Act. Psychologists and counsellors can provide an ADHD assessment, but they are not able to prescribe medication. In certain instances, psychiatrists or psychiatric nurses may be able to provide this assessment but only if the person is properly trained in the process of diagnosing and has a valid medical license. Certain people are not identified as having ADHD by their GP because they believe they meet the criteria, or that another diagnosis would better explain the person's problems. This is not necessarily a negative thing however it can be frustrating when the symptoms are causing distress and impact on your daily routine. Therapy Having a private diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that therapists are able to bend the rules or be less strict than if they were working within NHS guidelines. Patients who are seen privately are still required to undergo a thorough evaluation that is based on the best practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines. If a private health care provider is found to have a diagnosis of overdiagnosed ADHD the patient is likely to be disciplined by appropriate authorities. Many adults suffering from ADHD benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as mindfulness techniques. Therapists collaborate with clients to help them overcome obstacles and develop strategies that will improve their lives and reduce the impact of ADHD symptoms. This can be done in person or via a video conference depending on where the client is located. CBT's goal is to address the root of a client's issues by teaching them healthy coping techniques and helping them identify their problematic habits. These can include procrastination, poor management and trouble focusing and are all signs of adult ADHD. Therapists will help clients learn from strategies to lessen their symptoms, as well as helping them create an environment that is supportive of them. Adult ADHD is a common diagnosis for adults who feel relieved that they have finally found an explanation for their issues. They may also find that their diagnosis may cause a variety of emotions that are difficult to deal with. There are numerous support groups for those who require them. For those who are looking to receive treatment for their ADHD symptoms A mental health professional will provide them with a treatment plan that includes medication and psychotherapy. The use of medication can boost a patient's concentration, help them not lose items, and help them to remain still for longer to be able to concentrate and listen with a keen eye. In certain instances psychiatrists may prescribe stimulants such as methylphenidate for adults who are experiencing ADHD symptoms.