Notes

14 Common Misconceptions Concerning ADHD Private Diagnosis
ADHD Private Diagnosis

A doctor can refer an adult with ADHD to a private health specialist for an assessment. This can be done in person or via video conference.

Panorama A BBC investigation, has revealed that some clinics offer a faulty diagnosis. This puts patients at risk.

What happens if I don't have an answer to my question?


A professional diagnosis will give you access to treatment and can aid in reducing feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. A diagnosis can aid family members in understanding the symptoms and how it impacts the life of a person. This can lead to better relationships and a better understanding of ADHD.

In the UK, you should first speak to your GP about the reason you believe you have ADHD. Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and refer you for an evaluation with a specialist. You can speed up the process by asking your GP to select an option that allows you to select your own provider.

The next step is a comprehensive psychotherapy evaluation, which includes an extensive interview and psychological test. It is always helpful to bring a family member with you for support. After the assessment the doctor will give a clear diagnosis of ADHD and give suggestions for treatment. The appointment should last for two sessions.

Getting a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid the pitfalls that can arise when seeking an appointment with the NHS. When providing care to you the healthcare professionals must follow evidence-based guidelines and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.

If your healthcare provider doesn't believe you suffer from ADHD, they should explain the reason. You might not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they may consider that a different condition could better explain your symptoms. This is perfectly normal and shouldn't deter you from seeking an alternative opinion.

Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals misunderstand them. They may be told their issues are the result of not working hard enough or are lazy or negligent. adhd diagnosing can be extremely disappointing, but it is important to remember that these stereotypes are not based on evidence from science.

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

Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to receive an diagnosis. Some doctors have a lack of awareness of the condition and may not know what it is or how to diagnose it. Some may dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or assume that the person is masking these symptoms. Some doctors 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 similar symptoms).

Some medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD might mistake the patient's behavior as an indication of their untreated ADHD or think that they are suffering from depression or an anxiety disorder as a result. This can be particularly difficult for women suffering from ADHD whose symptoms can be more subtle and easy to miss. This confusion can cause people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that are not effective.

Some private assessment companies require a recommendation letter from your GP to set up an appointment. This can be a difficult process as NHS GPs might not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred and then rejected by doctors).

The GP who examines you will be looking to inquire about your life and how your ADHD symptoms impact it. Depending on the provider, this can include questions about your home, work and family. They will also go over the different types and strengths of medications available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be best for you. The majority of doctors will suggest stimulant medication however if they don't work for you, they could suggest a nonstimulant such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.

When you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send you a document to your GP which outlines the diagnosis and the recommended treatment. This is known as a 'shared care agreement'. Some doctors will accept these agreements however, not all will. If your GP doesn't accept these agreements, you will still need to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What is the next step if I am diagnosed but do not want to undergo medication or another treatment?

A lot of the symptoms of anxiety and depression are the same as those for ADHD and anxiety, therefore an expert in mental health can help you develop an appropriate treatment plan that meets the specific needs of each person. Early treatment is essential and may include therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. Children who suffer from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is a pattern of aggression toward other people or severe violations of rules and social norms at school, home, or among peers.

What is the procedure if I decide to drive?

Since the DVLA thinks of ADHD as a disability, having this condition can make it harder for you to get your driver's license. This is only a possibility if your symptoms are having an extended and significant impact on your daily life. This is something you would need to discuss with your doctor.

In the same way, having ADHD may affect how well you drive particularly in the case of inattention or unpredictable driving behavior. It may be difficult to organise your car, or remember to take your medication before driving. If you're worried about this, you can choose to travel with a passenger or only drive when you are certain you'll be the only driver in the car.

As you can see it, the Panorama program provided a biased negative view of private care for ADHD assessments. We hear from many adults who receive a diagnosis without a drug titration, and then have to go back to their GP and wait at the back of the line for an NHS assessment due to being'sneaked' in to an private clinic. This doesn't only discredit the NHS but also creates a stigma around the condition, which many feel they are judged for, even by their own family.

My Website: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/private-adult-adhd-diagnosis/