What is a Private ADHD Assessment?
A private ADHD assessment is a consultation with a specialist who has experience in the field. They will review your psychiatric history as well in examining different aspects of your life, and how these might be affected by ADHD symptoms.
Only UK registered psychiatrists or specialist ADHD nurses can formally diagnose ADHD. You can still get an assessment from a qualified healthcare professional'. Psychologists are one of them.
What can we expect?
During private adhd assessment adults will speak to you (or your child in the case of an ADHD assessment for children) about your symptoms and behavior over time. You may be asked to fill out questionnaires or rate your behavior on different scales. They will inquire about your family history, lifestyle and environment.
The consultation lasts 90 minutes The consultation can be conducted in person or by video calls. Bring any relevant documents, such as documents from work or school performance as well as any medication information. It is also recommended to wear comfortable clothing and not much jewellery for the test as it can require physical examinations.
You will be asked to give information regarding your health, family history and any problems you have had at work or in school. The psychiatrist consultant will also examine your medical records, as well as any other information they have on your child or yourself. They will then review any questionnaires or rating scales that you've completed, as well as their observations.
Depending on the results of your evaluation you will be given a diagnosis for ADD or ADHD, and treatment options. In some instances this could be medication, and in other instances, CBT therapy. They will discuss your needs and come up with the treatment plan. After they have reached an agreement on a treatment plan, they will refer you to your GP under a shared-care agreement.
A diagnosis from a specialist can increase your confidence in yourself and your relationships with family members and close friends. It can also reduce feelings like guilt and shame, because it enables you to realize that your symptoms are not an indication of failing or lack of character, but rather an illness of the brain.
It's important to remember that ADHD is a real illness that affects millions of people around the world. Although ADHD can be a problem in some areas of life, a lot of people who suffer from ADHD accomplish great things. Some of them 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 a diagnosis
Finding out if you have ADHD is a crucial first step in obtaining assistance for ADHD. You'll be able stop blaming yourself for your problems and realize that your ADHD is the reason for your problems. You'll also be able find an approach to managing your symptoms and regain some control over the areas of your life that have been troublesome for quite some time.
During the exam, you will be asked about your symptoms both as a child, and as an adult. You will also receive questionnaires to fill out prior to the appointment. This will allow you to consider your issues and provide the psychiatrist with an abundance of information that will help them diagnose your ADHD symptoms accurately.
It is essential to be honest when answering the questions. Do not be hesitant due to fear of being judged or shame. This is because a psychiatrist has to understand the full extent of your problems to be able to evaluate your case for ADHD. It is also crucial that you do not get diagnosed with a different disorder. Depression anxiety, depression, and other disorders may be similar to ADHD symptoms, which can have serious health consequences.
The specialists who make the diagnosis are usually GMC certified consultant psychiatrists. They will have a huge amount of experience in assessing adults for ADHD and can identify other disorders that may be causing your difficulties. This is referred to as differential diagnosis, and it is a common aspect of the process.
If the psychiatrist feels that you do not meet the requirements for ADHD the doctor will explain why. It could be because they believe that you don't provide enough details about your problems or that another disorder explains your symptoms better than ADHD. It is not necessary to accept the diagnosis if it's not what you want. You can seek a second opinion with another professional if you don't agree with.
Treatment options
Following an evaluation the patient may be offered a package of treatments to help manage symptoms. In most cases, a combination will be made of medications and expert coaching. This will improve their overall health and allow them to reach their full potential. This is an excellent alternative to the long NHS waiting times.
It is crucial to realize that a diagnosis of ADHD is not an instant fix, it needs to be treated as a chronic condition. If not treated, people suffering from ADHD might experience issues at work, at home, and in their relationships. Signs of ADHD like poor organization, difficulty staying focused and being focused, and being easily distracted can lead to difficulties in all aspects of their lives.
Adults who suffer from ADHD usually have a history of mental health issues. Bipolar disorder and depression are two instances. These conditions can intensify the impact of ADHD and make it harder to cope with. The symptoms can also become more severe when a setback occurs, e.g. losing a job or having issues with relationships.
The psychiatrist will assess the symptoms of ADHD throughout their life. This may involve questionnaires and rating scales. They may also want to discuss how their symptoms have affected their family and acquaintances.
The evaluation typically takes between 45 and 90 minute. The psychiatrist will talk about the symptoms that are being experienced and will go through a checklist of possible causes. The psychiatrist will then come up with an assessment.
If the psychiatrist believes the symptoms are due to an underlying condition, he or she will refer the patient for further medical tests. Depending on the results of these tests, the psychiatrist will then decide what treatment options are available to them.
It is worth noting that private healthcare professionals are subject to the same obligations as those within the NHS. The services they offer must be in line with the guidelines set out by NICE. It is suggested that patients consult their doctor to find out whether they require a referral before going for an assessment. Alternatively, they can contact a private specialist like Priory to schedule the assessment for themselves.
Aftercare
A private ADHD assessment provides clear guidance and expert guidance so you can select the appropriate treatment options that suit your symptoms, lifestyle and preferences. The psychiatrist might need to meet with you for several sessions and discuss your treatment options. This can take anywhere from two to three hours.
You can obtain an adult ADHD assessment via the NHS. However you'll require a referral from a GP. Private providers aren't required to have this however it's worth checking prior to booking.
The first step in the private assessment will be to complete the mental health form which asks 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 with ADHD.
A Consultant Psychiatrist will review the results of your questionnaire, your school's reports, and any other evidence you've provided along with an interview with you. It is essential to be honest and truthful as this will influence the results of your private evaluation.
If the doctor determines you do not have ADHD the doctor will explain the reasons and let you know whether you're eligible for a medication shared care agreement (so that you pay only for the NHS prescription fee) or if you could be referred to a different psychiatric expert. It is not unusual to discover another disorder that may be causing your symptoms, such as autism or PTSD which resembles ADHD so it's essential to undergo a thorough mental health screening.
It is essential to ensure that the private healthcare provider who conducts your assessment follows the guidelines for clinical practice that are set out by NICE. This is especially important when it comes to assessing adults with ADHD that can be difficult to diagnose and treat effectively. A reputable service will ensure that the healthcare professional you're visiting is an GMC certified psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse and that they have the right expertise in the assessment and treatment of patients suffering from ADHD.