ADHD Private Diagnosis
An adult with ADHD might be referred by their GP to a private health professional to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person or by video call.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has exposed clinics that offer inaccurate diagnoses. This puts vulnerable patients at risk.
What is the outcome if I don't receive a diagnosis?
A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment options and aid in reducing feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. Having a diagnosis also helps family members know the symptoms and how it impacts the person's daily routine. This can lead to stronger relationships and a more informed approach to managing ADHD.
In the UK You should first speak to your GP about the reason you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and send you to an expert to conduct an assessment. You can speed up the process by asking your GP to sign up for an option that allows you to select your preferred provider.
You will then go through a thorough psychiatric assessment which includes a thorough psychotherapy session and a clinical interview. It is a good idea to bring a family member along with you for support. After your assessment the specialist will present a clear diagnosis of ADHD and offer recommendations for treatment. It is recommended that you plan for your appointment to last around two sessions.
Finding a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that can arise when you attempt to obtain an accurate diagnosis from the NHS. The healthcare professionals you work with should be able to follow evidence-based practices and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when they provide care to you.
If your doctor does not find that you suffer from ADHD, they should explain why. You might not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they might believe that another condition could better explain your symptoms. This is fine and shouldn't deter you from seeking an alternative opinion.
One of the most common reasons adults struggle to get a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood by their GP or other medical experts. They may be told their issues are the result of not trying hard enough or are incompetent or negligent. It can be frustrating, but you should be aware that these stereotypes aren't supported by evidence from science.
What happens if I do not agree?
Many people suffering from ADHD are unable to obtain a diagnosis. Some doctors have a lack of awareness of the condition and may not understand what it is or how to recognize it. Some may dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or believe that the person is masking these symptoms. Some doctors are confused about the difference between ADHD, depression (everyone experiences down times) and anxiety (which can have the same symptoms).
Certain medical professionals who aren't aware of ADHD may misinterpret the person's behavior as an indication of their untreated ADHD or believe that they suffer from depression or anxiety disorder as a result. Women who suffer from ADHD can find it difficult to recognize because their symptoms are often less obvious and harder to identify. This confusion can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that are not effective.
Some private assessment companies will require a written consent from your GP before they can take your appointment. This process can be complicated because NHS GPs might not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred to, and then promptly rejected by GPs).
The GP will ask you questions about your life and how ADHD symptoms impact it. Depending on the doctor, this can include questions about your home, work and family. They will also discuss the various types of medications available to treat ADHD and discuss what might be most suitable for you. In general, doctors will test stimulant medications first. However, in the event that this doesn't work for you, then a nonstimulant drug such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.
If you are diagnosed, your clinician will send a letter to your GP which outlines the diagnosis and the recommended treatment. This is referred to as a 'shared care agreement'. Some GPs accept these agreements but not all. If your GP does not agree with these agreements, you will still need to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I am given a diagnosis, but don't wish to take medication?
Many of the signs of anxiety and depression are the same as the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, therefore an expert in mental health can help you develop a treatment plan that fits the individual needs of each person. Early treatment is crucial and may include talk therapy or medicine. It could also involve lifestyle adjustments. Children with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a form of aggression towards others or serious violations of social norms and rules at home, school or in the company of peers.
What happens if you want to drive?
As the DVLA considers ADHD as a impairment, having the condition could make it harder for you to get your driver's licence. This is only a possibility in the event that your symptoms are having a an extended and significant impact on your daily life. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis should discuss this with your doctor.
ADHD can also affect your driving, especially if you exhibit impulsivity and erratic driving behaviors. You may find it difficult to arrange your car or make sure to take your medication prior to driving. If you're worried about this, you can opt to travel with a partner or only drive when there's no other person in the car.
The negative image of Panorama's private health care in ADHD assessments is clear. Many adults have reported to us that they were given a diagnosis in a private clinic without any drug titration. They were then required go back to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This doesn't just denigrate the NHS and creates a stigma around a condition that many people believe they are judged for even by their own family.