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ADHD Assessment and Diagnosis An ADHD assessment and diagnosis can transform the lives of children and teens. With a diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan, they can optimize their learning environment and achieve their full potential. However the ADHD diagnosis isn't always easy to get on the NHS. The reason is that medical professionals often have preconceived ideas about what a person suffering from ADHD looks like. Diagnosis The diagnosis process for ADHD differs between private and NHS providers. Private providers tend to require the submission of a GP referral letter, however some do not. This is because it is important for an individual to be properly diagnosed before they are able to access NHS prescriptions. It can also be beneficial having a formal diagnosis when they intend to use it as proof for their insurance claims. During an ADHD assessment, a qualified psychiatrist will carry out a thorough background assessment and interview. This includes identifying the symptoms that are present and assessing if there have any changes since childhood. This is an important part of the process as it can help to distinguish between ADHD and other conditions with similar symptoms. Many people who suffer from ADHD also have anxiety or depression. These conditions should be assessed carefully as they can share symptoms. Private assessments of adult ADHD are typically conducted via video call or phone instead of in person. However, the psychiatrist will still be required to talk with you in depth about your symptoms and how they impact your life. This will involve a discussion of your family history, since ADHD is genetic, and any other mental health problems that you might have. The psychiatrist will decide whether you suffer from ADHD after a detailed conversation with you. They will then refer you to treatment, if needed. It is usually a prescription however, in certain instances, private ADHD assessment providers can provide an agreement of shared care with a GP to give you an NHS prescription. In the ideal case you should consult an experienced psychiatrist for a thorough assessment of your ADHD. This is because they are the only healthcare professionals competent to diagnose ADHD in adults. This is in line with NICE guidelines, which stipulate that only psychologists or psychiatrists who have the training and experience to diagnose ADHD can prescribe medication. Other healthcare professionals, such as GPs and nurses are not exempt, but they will not receive specialist training to diagnose ADHD. Treatment If you have a mental health condition like ADHD it is crucial that you find the right treatment option for you. A private assessment is when you'll have the chance to discuss all your options with a professional. It can also be helpful if you're having trouble getting an accurate diagnosis from your local NHS service. A private ADHD assessment usually involves a consultation with a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse. They are the only healthcare professionals who are certified to diagnose ADHD in the UK. The assessment may take place in person, or over video chat. It typically takes between 45 and 90 minutes and involves a discussion of your symptoms and family history, as well as mental health issues. It's a good idea bring a list of your medications and health issues to the appointment. After your doctor has completed your assessment, they will inform you what the next steps are. They will also inform you if they think that medication could be beneficial. If you decide to accept the offer of medication, you will be issued a prescription. Then, you'll need to bring it to your GP to request that the prescription be renewed. A proper diagnosis of ADHD can improve your quality of life and aid in managing your symptoms. You might also be eligible for workplace protections, should you require. Being recognized as a professional is also a great incentive for those suffering from ADHD to work towards their goals and to do their best. Although there has been a substantial increase in the number of people who have an ADHD diagnosis, it's very difficult to get a diagnosis. private adhd assessment might have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears and sounds like and this can result in errors in their assessments. Patients who can't afford private health care could be lured into paying for expensive and unnecessary medical tests such as brain scans, which aren't covered by their insurance. A specialist practice that specializes in adult ADHD will guarantee you expert care. The practice should have a strong experience in treating adults with ADHD and the team should all be skilled in this area. Review the practice and ask questions regarding the practice prior to making an appointment. Support A diagnosis of ADHD can make a massive impact on the quality of life of someone. It can give them the insight they require to manage their symptoms, lead a more fulfilling life and thrive at work and in their private lives. It is essential that they receive the right support to help them deal the challenges associated with being diagnosed. There are a variety of options for those who are interested in an online ADHD assessment. You can choose between neuropsychologists, psychiatrists and psychologists trained to assess ADHD. These specialists might also be able prescribe medications and provide ongoing therapy. They may also conduct other psychoanalysis tests to rule out any underlying conditions, such as bipolar disorder or autism that could be contributing to the ADHD symptoms. Having an ADHD evaluation can be costly. private adhd assessment london to find a doctor who specializes in psychiatry. They can provide the best treatment plan for your specific requirements. Finding the right doctor is essential to receive an important diagnosis that will change your outlook for the better. Contact the private assessment service you choose to see if they require a GP's referral letter. Some require it, while some don't. You should also know if the service offers an “Shared Care Agreement” where they'll refer you back to your GP to get medication after the examination is completed. You could also ask your GP for the referral to an adult ADHD specialist. This may take longer as you'll need to wait for a personal appointment with your GP. This process can take up to a month. It's important to recognize that waiting for an assessment of ADHD from the NHS can have a significant impact on your life. The NHS is under pressure and it could be an extended time before people receive the treatment they need. We need to see an overall goal for ADHD assessments, such as the three-month waiting time target set by Nice for autism spectrum disorders. It's time for the government set aside money ringfenced to enhance mental health services and cut down on waiting times. FAQs A video conference is generally used to conduct an ADHD assessment that allows you to be assessed in the privacy of your own home. The appointment will last approximately 50 minutes. Your psychiatrist will undertake a thorough medical examination and will concentrate on your mental health, taking a full psychiatric history. The doctor will also consider other mental conditions that could be present in conjunction with or in addition to ADHD symptoms. During your visit, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and their impact on your life. The doctor will inquire what time you've been afflicted by the symptoms and if they affect your work or personal relationships. The doctor will want to know your general health, and whether you have any other concerns. It is recommended to bring along copies of any previous psychological assessments, school records (including report cards and IEP or 504 documents in the event that they are available) and completed ADHD rating scales from any other professional. It is also an excellent idea to bring along any family members or significant others who might be involved in your situation. One of the most common mistakes doctors make when assessing ADHD is to go straight to the prescription pad. This is a risky practice and the result is often that people are incorrectly diagnosed with ADHD. Finding a doctor who is willing to conduct a thorough evaluation which includes interviewing teachers and examining completed ADHD ratings scales is the best way to avoid such the situation. Another mistake frequently made by medical professionals is that they don't take the time to consider the complexities of the situations that adults have to face in their daily lives. This is especially important when it comes to ADHD which can severely impact work, relationships, and overall health. In this situation it is crucial to discuss the possibilities with your GP and to seek an ADHD assessment by psychiatrists who are consultants. If you are a UK resident, you can have your ADHD assessment paid for by the NHS through their 'Right to choose process. However, it can be a long wait, and many people opt to pay for a private ADHD assessment to avoid the waiting times.