How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private providers for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving unreliable assessments. This has sparked controversy and concern over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to undergo a full exam with psychiatrist. Although some people have their diagnosis made 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 the use of medication. This is crucial as an official diagnosis is required for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to gain access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three most common symptoms of ADHD. While everyone exhibits some of these characteristics at times, people who suffer from ADHD tend to display them to a much more extensive degree than other people. Hyperactive behaviour includes fidgeting, inability to stay still or feel uneasy, and could also be a problem with planning and organization. Insane behavior may include making rash decisions, buying items without thinking about the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD can be characterized by difficulty staying focused or concentrating, procrastination, a lack of deadlines, or a lack of ability 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 reluctant to get an assessment. However, this is essential to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you understand your symptoms and find strategies and tools to overcome them. Many of our patients report that after being diagnosed, their lives are changed to the better.
The assessment process involves a discussion about your symptoms and how they affect your life, the taking of the DIVA online test and an in-depth interview. During your assessment our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are extremely skilled at helping you to feel relaxed and at ease.
The Assessment
As an adult with ADHD is required to go through an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. This must be conducted by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This can be a psychiatrist, psychologist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter how high their position in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals when it comes to their particular skills, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A specialist will utilize structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information about your symptoms as they can as they can, including how they affect your relationships and you and how long. They will also review your medical background and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The specialist will then consider the information gathered from various sources and make a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the examination you will be asked to take tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal the impact of your symptoms on how you perform in your daily life. You might be asked website to complete questionnaires regarding your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests such as puzzles or timed activities. They will also consider any other comorbid conditions that you might be suffering from, as many of these can present similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be questioned as part of the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they affect your work and relationships.
The expert will provide a full explanation of the findings of the assessment, and the treatment options available. This could include a shared-care contract with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic recommendations for your care and discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD can be challenging for adults with the condition. The first step is to have a private evaluation by a specialist doctor who will confirm or denial a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health conditions that could explain your symptoms or whether they are caused by medications.
After the evaluation is completed, your clinician will discuss your results and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Based on your needs, this could involve the use of psychotherapy or medications. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulant medication that aid in reducing their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase the brain's natural chemical messages like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a significant role in regulating attention and movements. Most people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to lessen frustration and improve their ability to manage time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD also benefit from diet modifications, which can help to improve their energy levels and focus.
Certain adults might be more difficult to get a diagnosis for ADHD, especially if they belong to minorities. Certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. The people in these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied a treatment because of this.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment can be a challenge, particularly if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take the cost into account. Furthermore, these clinics are more likely to take part in a range of different insurance plans and have residents and interns in training who are able to provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People suffering from ADHD often struggle to recognize the impact their condition has on their lives. They don't realize that their problems with organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to not understand the effects of ADHD. They might develop strategies to cope that allow them to function below their capacity however, these strategies could lead to issues such as anxiety and depression or addiction to alcohol or drugs.
This story highlights the need for seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for a lot of people to get the treatment they require. Others pay to access private healthcare, but have no assurance that their doctor will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' which will allow them to return to the NHS for follow-up treatment following a private diagnosis of ADHD. This could mean having to to pay for CBT therapy and medication on their own or even more expensive professional coaching services.
Always ensure whether any health professional you are considering working with has a positive track record of working with adults suffering from ADHD. You can check their website or phone number to confirm if they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also inquire whether they have dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
Selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist is crucial, as they are the ones who prescribes your medication in the event of need. Find a doctor who has specialized training in 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.
When choosing a therapist or psychiatrist, you must also consider your own personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or culture. You might also prefer to work someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience working with kink clients.