How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling under the burden of long NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.
However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many private clinics are handing out unreliable health assessments. This has caused debate and concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to consult a psychiatrist for a full assessment in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only one who can give a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is particularly important as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to be able to access NHS medication (which is only prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone exhibits some of these characteristics on occasion, those with ADHD will often demonstrate these to a greater extent than others. Hyperactivity can manifest as fidgeting or being restless. It may also include problems with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior may include making decisions that are reckless, buying items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD is characterized by difficulty in staying focused, procrastination, missing deadlines, 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.
Many adults are hesitant to seek a diagnosis. But, it is necessary in order to get the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in 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 say that once they've been diagnosed, their lives are changed for the better.
The assessment process will involve a conversation about your symptoms and how they affect your life, completing the DIVA online test and an extensive interview with a clinical psychologist. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel at ease.
The Assessment
You'll have to undergo a thorough evaluation as an adult suffering from ADHD before being diagnosed. This assessment must be performed by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, as it is their unique abilities and knowledge that define them as an expert.
A doctor will conduct an organized interview to collect as much information as is possible about your symptoms, how they affect your relationships and life, and how long you've been experiencing them for. They will also inquire about your family's mental health history and examine your medical history. The specialist will then review all the information collected from a variety of sources and make a diagnose according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the process of assessment you will be asked to complete tests designed to evaluate your symptoms and assess their impact on your daily functioning. These may include questionnaires about your symptoms, memory and inkblots, as well as tests such as puzzles or timed tasks. They will also consider any other comorbid disorders that you may have, as many of them may have symptoms that are similar to those triggered by ADHD.
The assessment will also involve an interview with a person who knows you well - such as an individual from your family, partner or friend. This is to get further confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to see how they impact your relationships and work.
The expert will be able give you a detailed account of the findings of the examination, as well as the treatment options available. This check here may include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will outline their holistic plan and any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD may have difficulty getting an assessment. The first step is to have a private evaluation by a specialist doctor who can either confirm or refuse a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able to tell you if you have other mental health issues that might explain some of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are related to the medication you're taking.
After the assessment your doctor will review the results and recommend the best treatment plan. Based on the specific requirements of each patient you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to help improve their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost the brain's natural chemical messages like norepinephrine and dopamine, which play an important role in regulating attention and movements. Most people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies to lessen frustration and improve their ability to manage time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary changes that can improve their energy levels and concentration.
Certain adults might have a harder time getting a diagnosis for ADHD particularly those who belong to a minority group. This is because some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or to be not treated.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatments isn't easy, especially if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take finances into account. These clinics are also more likely to accept a variety of insurance plans, and have residents or interns in training who offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the effects of their condition on their lives. They don't always realize that their issues in organising, planning and completing tasks cause problems at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to overlook the effects of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function below their potential. However, these may cause other issues, such as anxiety, depression, or drug or alcohol addiction.
This story highlights the need to seek expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are struggling to get NHS care because of logjammed waiting lists. Others pay to access private healthcare, but have no guarantee that their GP will agree to a 'shared care agreement' that allows patients to return to the NHS for follow-up treatment following a private diagnosis of ADHD. This could mean having to paying for CBT therapy and medication on their own or even more expensive professional coaching services.
You should always check whether any health professional you're thinking of working with has a positive track experience working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by checking up their website, or contacting them to confirm that they have the experience you require. You can also inquire whether they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is important, because they will be the one who prescribes your medication if needed. Choose a doctor that 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 be aware of your personal preferences. For instance, some people prefer an therapist who is a member of their gender or ethnicity. You might also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with kink clients.