adult adhd diagnosis uk with ADHD might be referred by their GP to a private health specialist to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person or via video calls.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed clinics that provide incorrect diagnoses. This puts vulnerable patients at risk.
What happens if I don't receive a diagnosis?
A diagnosis from a professional can grant you access to treatments and reduce feelings of confusion or self-doubt. The diagnosis can help family members know the symptoms and how it impacts a person's daily life. This can result in stronger relationships as well as a more educated approach to managing ADHD.
In the UK, you should first talk to your GP about the reason you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an evaluation with a specialist. This process will be more efficient when you ask your GP to use a scheme that lets you choose your preferred provider.
The next step is a thorough psychological assessment, which includes an in-depth interview and psychological test. A family member or friend along is always beneficial. After the assessment the specialist will be able to determine the cause of ADHD and provide treatment recommendations. You should expect your appointment to last for about two sessions.
A private diagnosis specialist for adhd can help you avoid the traps of trying to get an appointment through the NHS. When providing care to you the healthcare professionals must remain in line with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor does not identify you as having ADHD the doctor must explain why. It could be that they don't believe that you meet the criteria for this disorder, or they believe that an alternative condition is more likely to explain your characteristics (symptoms). This is okay and shouldn't deter you from seeking an alternative opinion.
One of the main reasons that adults struggle to obtain a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood by their GP or other medical professionals. Certain doctors might tell them that their problems result from an inability to work or they're lazy or negligent. It can be frustrating, but remember that these myths aren't supported by scientific evidence.
What happens if I disagree?
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to obtain a diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition or know how to diagnose it. Some may dismiss the symptoms or think that the patient is masking the symptoms. Some doctors are confused about the distinction between ADHD depression (everyone is down at times) and anxiety (which may have similar symptoms).
In some instances, medical staff who aren't familiar with ADHD will confuse the person's behavior with their uncontrolled ADHD or think that the person is suffering from depression or anxiety because of their unmanaged ADHD. Women suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to identify because their symptoms are often subtler and more difficult to identify. This confusion can cause people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that are not effective.
Some private assessment providers require a letter of recommendation from your GP to make an appointment. This procedure can be difficult due to the fact that NHS doctors may not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessment are referred, and then immediately rejected by the GPs).
The GP who examines you will inquire about your personal life and how your ADHD symptoms affect it. This may include questions about your home, work and family, based on the doctor. They will also discuss the various types of medications available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be the best for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medication first but should this not work for you then a nonstimulant medication such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride could be suggested.
Once you have a diagnosis and the doctor will send a letter to your GP with paperwork that sets out the diagnosis and how that you be treated. This is referred to as a'shared-care agreement'. Some GPs accept these agreements but not all. If your GP does not, you'll be required to continue to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I get a diagnosis but don't want to take medication?
A mental health professional can help create a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual's needs. Early treatment is crucial and may involve talk therapy or medicine. It may also require lifestyle adjustments. Children suffering from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a pattern of aggression toward other people or serious violations of rules and social norms at school, at home or in the company of friends.
What happens if I want to drive?
Since the DVLA thinks of ADHD as a disability, having this condition could make it harder for you to obtain your driver's license. This is only a possibility in the event that your symptoms are having a a long-term and significant impact on your life. This is something you'll need to discuss with your doctor.
ADHD can also affect your driving, especially if you exhibit an impulsive driving style and unpredictable driving behavior. It may be difficult to organise your car, or remember to take your medication before driving. If you are worried about this, you can decide to travel with a passenger or only drive when you'll be driving on your own in the car.
As you can see, the Panorama program gave a highly negative and distorted view of private care for ADHD assessments. Many adults have reported to us that they received an assessment in private clinics without drug titration. They had return to their GP to wait in the line for an NHS assessment. This is not only a discrediting of the NHS but also adds to the stigma that surrounds a condition that makes many sufferers feel belittled by their family members.