What is a Private ADHD Assessment?
A private ADHD assessment is an appointment with a clinician who has experience in the field. They will look at your psychiatric history and examine how ADHD symptoms may affect the various aspects of your life.
Only UK registered psychiatrists and ADHD nurses can diagnose ADHD. You can still receive an assessment from a 'qualified healthcare professional'. Psychologists are among them.
What can you expect?
In a private ADHD assessment the psychiatrist consultant will talk to you (or your child, should it be an ADHD assessment for children) about your symptoms and behavior over time. You may be asked to fill out questionnaires or evaluate your behavior using different scales. They will ask about the history of your family and lifestyle and environment.
The psychiatric consultation will last around 90 minutes and is carried out in person or via video call. It's important to bring any relevant notes with you, such as work or school performance notes and medical information. It is also recommended to wear comfortable clothes and minimal jewelry for the examination as it can involve physical examinations.
You will be asked to provide information about your health, family history, and any problems you have had at school or work. The psychiatrist consultant will also look at your medical records and any other information they have regarding you or your child's behaviour. They will then review any questionnaires or rating scales that you've completed as well as their observations.
Depending on the outcome of your test, you will be given an assessment for ADD or ADHD, and treatment options. In some cases this will be medication, while in others, CBT therapy. They will discuss your needs and come up with the best treatment plan. After private adult adhd assessment uk have reached an agreement on a treatment plan they will refer you to your GP under a shared-care agreement.
A diagnosis from a professional can boost your confidence in yourself and your relationships with family and close friends. It can also reduce feelings of guilt and shame because it helps you realise that your symptoms are caused by a neurological condition rather than being a sign of weakness or failure.
It's important to recognize that ADHD is a real disorder that affects millions of people around the world. While ADHD can be a problem in certain areas of life, many people who suffer from ADHD have achieved great success. Some of these people include celebrities such as Justin Timberlake, Solange Knowles and Will.i.am, Oscar Winner Michael Phelps and businesspeople such as Paris Hilton and Walt Disney.
Finding an accurate diagnosis
A diagnosis is the first step in seeking assistance for ADHD. You'll be able to stop blaming your own problems and realize that your ADHD is the root of your issues. You will also be able find an approach to managing your symptoms and regain some control over the areas of your life which have been troublesome for quite some time.
During the exam, you will be asked about your symptoms as a child, and also as an adult. You will also receive questionnaires to fill out prior to your appointment. This will allow you to contemplate your problems and give the psychiatrist many details that will help them diagnose your ADHD symptoms in a precise manner.
It is important to be honest when answering the questions. You should not hold back because of a fear of criticism or shame. A psychiatrist must know your full range of difficulties to accurately diagnose ADHD. It is also crucial to not be diagnosed with a different disorder. Depression anxiety, stress and other disorders could cause ADHD symptoms, which could cause serious health issues.
The professionals who will perform the diagnosis are usually GMC certified consultant psychiatrists. They have a wealth of experience in assessing adults with ADHD and will be able identify other disorders which may be causing your problems. This is referred to as differential diagnosis and is a common part of the process.
If the doctor believes you don't meet the criteria for ADHD, they will explain the reason. You might not have provided enough information about your difficulties or a different disorder may be a better explanation for your symptoms than ADHD. You do not have accept the diagnosis if it's not what you want. You can seek a second opinion from an alternative professional if you don't agree with.
Treatment options
In many cases, once an individual has been assessed, they will be given a treatment package to help manage their symptoms. It's usually a combination of specialist coaching and medication. This can improve their overall wellbeing and help them realize their full potential. This is an excellent alternative to long NHS waiting times.
It is important to realize that ADHD is a long-term disorder and should not be treated as it is. Untreated, people with ADHD may experience difficulties at work, at home and in their relationships. Poor organisation, difficulty staying on task and focused, and being easily distractible can create problems for those with ADHD in all areas of their life.
Most of the time, when adults are diagnosed with ADHD they also have an antecedent of mental health issues. Bipolar disorder and depression are two examples. These conditions can intensify the effects of ADHD and make it harder to manage. The symptoms can also get worse when a setback occurs e.g. losing a job or undergoing relationship issues.
The psychiatrist will examine the symptoms of ADHD throughout their lifetime. This will involve questionnaires and rating scales. They might also want to discuss how their symptoms have affected their family and friends.
The evaluation typically takes between 45 and 90 minute. The psychiatrist will talk about the symptoms that are being experienced and will review a list of possible causes. The psychiatrist will then come up with a diagnosis.
If the psychiatrist is of the opinion that the symptoms are caused by an underlying medical condition, they will send the patient to additional medical tests. Based on the results of these tests, the psychiatrist will then decide what treatment options are available to them.
It is important to note that private healthcare professionals have the same responsibilities with those employed by the NHS. The services they offer must be in line with the guidelines laid out by NICE. Patients should consult their GPs to find out if they need an appointment letter for an assessment. Patients can also contact an individual specialist like Priory to schedule an assessment.
Aftercare
A private ADHD assessment offers clear advice and professional guidance so you can select the appropriate treatment options that fit your needs, lifestyle and preferences. The psychiatrist may need to meet with you for several sessions and discuss your treatment options. This could take up to two hours.
You can get an adult ADHD assessment through the NHS however, you must have a referral letter from your GP. Private providers may not require this but it is advisable to check before making an appointment.
The first step of the private assessment will be to fill out an assessment form for mental health that inquires about your symptoms, past treatments, family history and any other mental health issues you may be dealing with. The private assessment process may also include a test for cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). It is a type of therapy that assists you to change your negative beliefs and behaviours. It is particularly effective for adults suffering from ADHD.
Once this is completed the Consultant Psychiatrist will go over the results of the questionnaire, school reports, any other evidence you've given and will conduct an interview with you. It is essential that you are honest and truthful since this will impact the results of your private evaluation.
If a psychiatrist determines that you don't have ADHD they will explain the reason and will tell you whether or not you are able to sign a shared care agreement with your GP to get medication (so you only pay for the NHS prescription cost) or if they can send you for a follow-up psychiatric opinion elsewhere. It is not uncommon to find that your symptoms are caused by another issue, such as PTSD or autism, and it's crucial that you have an entire mental health assessment.
It is also important that the healthcare provider you visit for your assessment adheres to the guidelines for clinical care as laid out by NICE. This is particularly important when assessing adults suffering from ADHD. It can be difficult to recognize and effectively treat them. A good service will ensure that the healthcare professional you're consulting is an GMC certified psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse and has the appropriate expertise in the assessment and treatment of patients suffering from ADHD.