How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is unable to diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients due to the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and will pay private providers to give them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving unreliable assessments. This has sparked debate and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to consult an experienced psychiatrist for a complete examination to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is essential because a valid diagnosis is required to be able to use certain workplace protections, like flexible working, as well as to access NHS medication.
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone has certain traits at times however, those with ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. Hyperactivity can manifest as fidgeting or being agitated. It could also be accompanied by issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can involve making rash decisions, purchasing things without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD can be identified by difficulty in staying focused and avoiding deadlines, procrastination, or a lack of ability to think ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.
Although many adults are nervous about getting a diagnosis, it is essential that you do so to receive the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It can also help you to understand your symptoms and help you find ways and methods to conquer them. Many of our patients tell us that once they have been diagnosed, their lives are changed to the better.
The assessment process involves an open discussion about your symptoms and how they impact your life, taking the DIVA online test and an extensive clinical interview. In your assessment our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are extremely competent in helping you feel at ease and comfortable.
The Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD, you will need undergo a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. This must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is a specialist within ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter where they are in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, because it is their unique skills and knowledge that defines them as specialist.
A doctor will conduct a structured interview to gather as much information as is possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships, and the length of time you've been experiencing them for. They will also review your medical history and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The doctor will then go over all the information gathered from a variety of sources and make a diagnose according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the assessment, you will be required to take tests that are that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal their impact on how you perform in your daily life. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots and sometimes tests such as timed tasks or puzzles. They also take into account any other conditions you may be suffering from, as many of these can present similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be interviewed during the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine whether they affect your work and relationships.
The specialist you meet with will be able give you a comprehensive report detailing the findings of your examination and the options available for treatment, including a shared care agreement with your GP for prescriptions (where you pay only the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will go over their holistic recommendations for your care and will go over any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
The process of determining if you have ADHD isn't easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to have an assessment in private by a specialist physician who will be able to confirm or deny the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health issues that could explain some of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are related to the medications you're taking.
Once the test is complete the doctor will review the results with you and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Based on the requirements of each person you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs that help to improve their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost brain's chemical signals, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a significant role in attention and movements. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve quickly and effectively.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies to lessen frustration and help them manage time and manage their tasks. Certain people with ADHD also benefit from diet modifications, which can help to improve their energy levels and concentration.
Some adults may have a difficult time obtaining a diagnosis for ADHD particularly if they belong to minorities. Some medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD is like. These groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.
Finding affordable treatment and evaluations can be a challenge, particularly if you do not have insurance. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics that take into the financial aspects. Furthermore they are more likely to be enrolled in a range of different insurance plans, and have interns and residents in training that can provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to be unaware of the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function below their potential. However, these can lead to other problems, such as depression, anxiety, or drug or alcohol dependence.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are struggling to access NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will agree to a 'shared care agreement' that will allow them to return to the NHS for follow up treatment following an individual diagnosis of ADHD. This can lead to them having to continue paying for private treatment and CBT - or even more expensive specialist coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're considering working with has experience working with adults who have ADHD. You can check their website or contact them to confirm they have the knowledge and experience required. adhd private assessment can also ask whether they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is essential to select the right psychiatrist or therapy, as they will be the ones who will prescribe medication when needed. Find a doctor who has completed specialized training for adults with ADHD. You can do this by contacting your local support group for adults with ADHD, or the Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) organization to find an expert in your area.
When choosing a therapist or psychiatrist, it is important to consider your own personal preferences. For instance, some individuals are more comfortable with a psychiatrist who is a member of their gender or culture. You might also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with kink-allied clients.