What is a Private ADHD Assessment?
A private ADHD assessment is a session with a qualified doctor. They will look at your psychiatric history as well as analyze the ways in which ADHD symptoms could impact the various aspects of your life.
Only UK registered psychiatrists or specialist ADHD nurses can formally diagnose ADHD. You can still obtain an assessment from a 'appropriately-qualified healthcare professional'. These include Psychologists.
What to expect
In an ADHD private assessment, a psychiatrist consultant will sit down with you and your child (if it's an ADHD assessment for children) about your symptoms and behavior over time. They may also ask you to fill in questionnaires and rate your behavior on a variety of scales. They will inquire about your family history, lifestyle and environment.
The psychiatric consultation lasts about 90 minutes and is conducted either in person or via video conference. It is essential to bring any relevant notes such as school or work performance documents and medications. Wear comfortable clothes and minimal jewelry during the examination, as it may involve physical tests.
You will be asked to give information regarding your health, family history and any issues you've had at work or at school. The psychiatrist consultant will also review your medical records, along with any other information that they have about your child or you. They will then look over any questionnaires or rating scales that you've completed as well as their observations.
Based on the results of your evaluation You'll be given the diagnosis of ADD or ADHD and given treatment options. In some instances it will be medication and in other instances, CBT therapy. They will talk about your needs and then agree on the best treatment plan. After they have reached an agreement on a treatment plan and have referred you to your GP under a shared-care arrangement.
It's important to understand that a professional diagnosis can make you feel more confident in your abilities and improve relationships with your family and friends. It can also ease feelings of shame and guilt because it helps you recognize that the symptoms you experience are caused by an illness of the brain rather than being a sign of weakness or failure.
It is crucial to keep in mind that ADHD is an illness that affects millions around the world. Although it can have a negative impact on some parts of life, people who suffer from ADHD often go on to accomplish great things. These include famous musicians like Justin Timberlake and Solange Knowles, actors such as Will.i.am and Oscar Winner Michael Phelps, businesspeople like Paris Hilton and Walt Disney, and scientists such as Nobel physicist Albert Einstein.
Getting a diagnosis
The process of obtaining a diagnosis is the first step to getting help for ADHD. This means that you stop blameing yourself for your issues and start to recognise that the challenges you experience are the result of your ADHD. You will also be able to find a way of managing your symptoms and regain control over aspects of your life which have been troublesome for quite some time.
During the assessment you will be asked questions about how you've been affected by your symptoms as a child and an adult. You may also be given questionnaires to fill out prior to the appointment. This will help you think about your issues and provide the psychiatrist a wealth information that can be used to identify your ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial that you are honest when answering the questions and do not hesitate due to fear of being judged or shame. This is because a psychiatrist needs to know the full extent of your issues in order to properly assess you for ADHD. It is also important to not be diagnosed with something else. Depression, anxiety and other disorders can mimic ADHD, and these can have serious consequences for your health.
The experts who make the diagnosis are typically GMC certified consultant Psychiatrists. They will have years of experience in assessing adults with ADHD and will be able to identify other disorders which could be causing you difficulties. This is known as differential diagnosis and is a common aspect of the process.
If you are not diagnosed with ADHD and a psychiatrist will explain the reason. You might not have provided enough details about your issues or another condition could explain your symptoms more effectively than ADHD. You do not have accept the diagnosis if it's not what you're looking for. private adhd assessment uk may get a second opinion from an alternative professional if you disagree.
Treatment options
In most cases, after an individual has been assessed, they will be given a treatment plan to help manage their symptoms. In most cases, a combination will be employed of medications and specialist coaching. This can improve their overall health and let them reach their full potential. This is an excellent alternative to long NHS waiting times.
It is important to understand that the diagnosis of ADHD is not just a quick fix, it needs to be treated as a long-term condition. If left untreated, those with ADHD might experience issues at home, work, and in their relationships. Insufficient organization, difficulties staying focused and on task, and being easily distractible can create problems for those who suffer from ADHD in all areas of their life.
Adults suffering from ADHD typically have a history of mental health issues. These may include depression or bipolar disorder. These conditions can increase the effects of ADHD and make it more difficult to cope with. Symptoms can also be intensified when a setback occurs e.g. losing a job or experiencing relationship issues.
The psychiatrist will assess the symptoms of ADHD throughout their life. This may include questionnaires and rating scales. They might also want to discuss how the symptoms have affected their family and friends.
The assessment will usually take between 45 to 90 minutes. The psychiatrist will go over the symptoms and possible causes. The psychiatrist will then determine the diagnosis.
If the psychiatrist is of the opinion that the symptoms are caused by an underlying issue, they will refer the patient for additional medical tests. The psychiatrist will determine treatment options in light of the results.
It is important to remember that private healthcare professionals are subject to the same responsibilities as those within the NHS. The services they offer must still follow the guidelines set out by NICE. Patients should consult their GPs to determine whether they require a referral letter to go for an assessment. Alternatively, they can contact an individual specialist like Priory to arrange the assessment for themselves.
Aftercare
A private ADHD assessment provides clear guidance and expert guidance so that you can pick the best treatment options that fit your needs, lifestyle and preferences. The process could take two hours or more to discuss your medication options and can involve several sessions with the psychiatrist.
You can access an adult ADHD assessment through the NHS however, you must have an official referral letter from your GP. Private providers aren't required to have this however it's worth checking prior to making an appointment.
The first step of the private assessment process will be to fill out the mental health questionnaire which includes questions regarding your symptoms and family history, prior treatments, and any other mental health issues you have. It may also include a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) test. It is a type of therapy that helps you change your negative beliefs and behaviours. It is particularly effective for adults who have ADHD.
A Consultant Psychiatrist will review the results of your questionnaire, your school's reports and any other evidence that you have provided, as well as an interview with you. You must be truthful and accurate, as this will affect the results of your private assessment.
If the psychiatrist concludes that you do not have ADHD and they explain the reason and let you know whether you're eligible for a medication shared-care agreement (so that you only pay for the NHS prescription fee) or if you're able to be referred to a psychiatrist. It is not unusual to find a different issue that may be behind your symptoms, like autism or PTSD, that looks like ADHD so it's essential to undergo a thorough mental-health screening.
It is also important that the healthcare provider you go to for your assessment adheres to the guidelines for clinical practice as laid out by NICE. This is especially crucial when assessing adults with ADHD. It is often difficult to identify and treat them effectively. A good service will ensure that the healthcare professional you are visiting is a GMC certified psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse and that they have the right knowledge of assessing and treating patients suffering from ADHD.