How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling under the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing inaccurate assessments. This has caused debate and concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to go through a complete exam with psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only person who can provide you with an official diagnosis that is recognized for medication. This is especially important since the need for a formal diagnosis is essential to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to gain access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by psychiatrists).
Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three most common symptoms of ADHD. While everyone displays certain traits occasionally but those with ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, being unable to remain still, or feeling uneasy, and could also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior may include making rash decisions, purchasing things without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms may include difficulty staying focused on work and putting off deadlines, or having trouble to plan ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.
Many adults are hesitant to pursue an assessment. However, it's necessary in order to get the support and treatment that you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It will also help you understand the symptoms and provide strategies and tools to deal with them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
private adhd assessments of assessment will include a conversation about your symptoms and how they impact your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test, and a detailed interview with a clinical psychologist. In your assessment, our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and are highly competent in helping you feel at ease and comfortable.
Assessment
As an adult suffering from ADHD is required to undergo an exhaustive assessment before being diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It does not matter what their place in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals in relation to their particular skills, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will use an organized interview to collect as much information as is possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships, and the length of time you've been suffering from them for. They will also review your medical history and ask about your family mental health history as well. The doctor will then go over all the information collected from a variety of sources and formulate a diagnosis in accordance with the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the process of assessment you will be asked to take tests that are designed to evaluate your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily life. You may be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests like puzzles or timed exercises. They'll also take into consideration any other disorders you might be suffering from, as they may present symptoms that are similar to those triggered by ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed during the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they impact your work and relationships.
The person you speak to will be able to give you a thorough report that outlines the results of your evaluation and what options are available to treat your condition, including an agreement to share care with your GP for prescriptions (where you pay only the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will discuss their holistic recommendations for your care and will go over any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time getting the diagnosis. The first step is to get an assessment in private with a specialist doctor who will be able to confirm or deny the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor will also be able inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that might explain some of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are related to the medication you are on.
Once the assessment is completed the doctor will review the results and suggest a treatment plan. Depending on your requirements, this could mean the use of psychotherapy or medications. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications which help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance brain's chemical signals, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a crucial role in the development of attention and movement. Most people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This could also include strategies to reduce their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and tasks. Some people with ADHD might also benefit from diet changes that can boost their energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, particularly in the case of a minority group. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD looks like. People from these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied a treatment because of this.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if you don't have insurance. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics that take into account finances. Furthermore, these clinics are more likely to be enrolled in a range of different insurance plans, and have interns and residents in training who can offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD are often unable to comprehend the impact their conditions have on their lives. They don't always realize that their difficulties with planning, organising and completing tasks lead to difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to overlook the effects of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform less than their potential. However, these can cause other issues, such as depression, anxiety, or drug or alcohol addiction.
This story highlights the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are unable to access NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will sign a'shared care agreement' that allows them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following an official diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private therapy, medication, or even more costly coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're considering working with has expertise working with adults who have ADHD. You can do this by looking up their website, or calling them to confirm that they have the experience you need. You can also inquire if they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Finding the right psychiatrist or therapist is crucial, as they will be the one who prescribes your medication, if required. Find a doctor who has specialized training on adult 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.
You should also consider your personal preferences when selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist. Some people might be more comfortable working with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with the kink client.