How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help

This week, the BBC's Panorama program looked into how private clinics diagnosed adults with ADHD.

The investigation has revealed some alarming cases. But it also highlights the hardships of those who are caught between a rock and a hard place.

The wait times for adult ADHD assessments on the NHS are long. Many choose to pay for a privately-run assessment.

Signs and symptoms

A private ADHD assessment can give you the information you're looking for whether you or your child is suffering from ADHD symptoms. ADHD symptoms can be misinterpreted as signs of other disorders. An accurate diagnosis is crucial for your health.

Inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature are the primary symptoms of ADHD. These symptoms can cause issues at school, working and at home. Relations and emotional wellbeing can be affected by these symptoms. Private ADHD assessments can help you understand if you have ADHD and provide you with the treatment you need to live your life to the fullest.

If you're looking for a private ADHD assessment, it is crucial to find a professional who will take the time to assess your personal needs. This is not a quick process, and the professional should be prepared to spend up to three hours during the assessment. During the assessment your specialist will ask you how your ADHD symptoms affect your daily life. Your specialist will also ask about your family history and private ADHD assessments any other mental health issues you may be suffering from. They may also want to contact your employer or school to gain a better understanding of your situation.

It is essential that the medical professional who is conducting your personal ADHD assessment is a certified, experienced psychiatrist. This will ensure you receive the best quality of treatment. The same regulations apply to private adhd assessment adult healthcare providers as they apply to NHS healthcare professionals. They should also follow the guidelines for best practice which are outlined in NICE.

Additionally, it's helpful to have any supporting documents you've got during the assessment. This could include medical records, psychological reports or letters from your GP or questionnaires you've completed. Your specialist will need to have this information to be able to assess your symptoms and recommend a course of treatment for you.

It is important to be aware that certain doctors have preconceived notions about what a person with ADHD might appear like. This can make it difficult to get a correct diagnosis. This is particularly true for people who are people of color, who is gender-specific at birth or not native English people.

Diagnosis

ADHD is a complicated disorder that can impact every aspect of the life of a person. It affects the way that our brains function, which can affect the ability to concentrate, impulsivity and memory. A private assessment for adhd can help identify the cause and help a person control their symptoms and improve their lives. Accurate diagnosis can help people determine the best treatment option to relieve symptoms, reduce anxiety and improve their quality of life.

The diagnosis of adult ADHD is a process which requires a thorough examination, medical history and questionnaires. The GP has discretion when it regards diagnosing ADHD but they'll need to take your concerns seriously and refer you to an assessment. Clinical interviews and validated rating scales will be used to assess a person's symptoms. It is important that the healthcare professional who is carrying out your assessment is skilled, knowledgeable and experience to diagnose ADHD. The best approach is to consult a Psychiatrist, or an ADHD specialist nurse. However, healthcare professionals based in NHS clinics are also considered as they are regulated under the National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidelines.

However, some people don't get the diagnosis that they deserve or require due to the stigma associated with mental health and ADHD. This could be because a GP is reluctant to refer someone or has a preconceived notion of what ADHD looks like. Adults may also have a difficult time being diagnosed, as they may not show the classic symptoms of ADHD.

It is worth arranging an appointment at a trusted private clinic like Diverse Diagnostics, if you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD symptoms. They offer online assessments to diagnose a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders. They can also provide an adult ADHD diagnosis. In the beginning, you should talk with your GP about the issues you are experiencing at home, at work or in social situations. They should be able to take you seriously and suggest you see an ADHD specialist at one of the Priory Hospitals or wellbeing centres.

Treatment

Treatment options for ADHD differ from person to person however, they can involve medication or different types of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The type of therapy recommended will depend on the symptoms you are experiencing and the severity. It is also important to consider whether you have other mental health issues that may be affecting your symptoms.

There are fears that certain private clinics may be misdiagnosing patients with ADHD. Panorama's investigation found that an undercover journalist was able book appointments online with three private clinics and receive effective medications after unreliable assessments via virtual devices. The undercover journalist answered questions honestly about his symptoms however, he didn't inform the clinics that he was a reporter.

It is crucial that your assessment is carried out by a healthcare specialist with experience in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists but also GPs as well as other healthcare professionals with specific knowledge, skills and experience in ADHD. To be considered an ADHD specialist, it's not enough to possess a license to practice or Private ADHD assessments be listed on the NHS Register.

During the ADHD assessment process, your doctor will talk about how you're feeling and the symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor will also inquire with you about any mental health issues and your family history. You must give your best answers to these questions since they are essential in determining if you suffer from ADHD.

After your evaluation Your doctor will then discuss the next steps with you. This will likely include a decision on whether or not to prescribe medication and the plan for your care in the future and following up. You can choose to continue your treatment as private patient or go back to the NHS (known as shared care) If you choose to do so.

It is important to be aware that If you've been diagnosed with ADHD it can be difficult to get the medication you require on the NHS because of long waiting lists. The 'Right to choose' scheme has made it easier for adults living in England to obtain private diagnosis and treatment and is highly recommended if you are waiting for an NHS appointment.

Support

A private ADHD assessment can help a child or teenager understand and accept their diagnosis, and make positive lifestyle adjustments to improve their lives. A specialist ADHD assessment is also beneficial for adults who have been struggling with the symptoms for many years, affecting their relationships or work.

RTN Mental Health Solutions is a multidisciplinary team made up of Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists based in the UK with extensive experience assessing children and adults who suffer from ADHD. They offer a full ADHD assessment that includes diagnosis and treatment recommendations in accordance with NICE guidelines. This assessment can be paid for with three or five installments of PS195 (excluding any medication prescribed by clinicians). Certain private assessments require the submission of a GP referral letter, while others do not. Make sure to check with the provider you choose to find out their policy.