How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling under the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to get answers and will pay private providers to provide them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided unreliable assessments. This has led to controversy and concern over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to consult an Psychiatrist for a thorough assessment in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only person who can provide a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is crucial as a formal diagnosis is necessary for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to gain access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone is likely to exhibit some of these traits on occasion, those with ADHD tend to display these traits to a greater extent than others. Hyperactivity can manifest as fidgeting or being restless. It could also be accompanied by problems with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive choices, purchasing items without thinking about the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty staying focused on work that require attention, avoiding deadlines, or finding it difficult 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 pursue an assessment. However, it's essential to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can help you recognize your symptoms, and find strategies and tools that will assist you in overcoming these. Once diagnosed, many of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves an examination of your symptoms and their impact on your life, the taking of the DIVA online test and an extensive interview. In your assessment our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are adept at helping you feel at ease and comfortable.
Assessment
You will need to undergo an exhaustive examination as an adult suffering from ADHD before you can be diagnosed. This needs to be carried out by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This can be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses are not able 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 an organized interview to collect the most information possible about your symptoms, how they impact your life and relationships and how long you've been experiencing them for. They will also ask 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 formulate a diagnosis according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the test, you will be required to take tests that are designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also determine their impact on how you perform in your daily activities. You may be asked 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 disorders that you might be suffering from, as many of them can present symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with someone who knows you well - like an individual from your family, partner or friend. This is to get further evidence to support your ADHD symptoms and to see if they are impacting your relationships and work.
The expert will provide you with a thorough explanation of the outcome of the evaluation, as well as the treatment options available. This may include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic plan as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD might have a difficult time getting an assessment. The first step is to have a private evaluation by a specialist doctor who can either confirm or denial the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. The doctor can also inform you if there are any other mental health issues that could cause your symptoms or the cause of your symptoms is medications.
After the evaluation is completed, your clinician will discuss your 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 are prescribed stimulant medications which help improve their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost the supply of the brain's natural chemical messengers such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which play a key role in attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, most people find their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from a program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to lessen frustration and help them manage time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from diet changes that improve their energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, particularly in the case of the minority group. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. They are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed or be not treated.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take the cost into account. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans, and have residents or interns in training who can provide treatment under mentor supervision.
private adhd assessment adults with ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware that their difficulties with organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to overlook the effects of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that enable them to perform less than their potential. However, these can result in other problems like anxiety, depression, or drug or alcohol dependence.
This article highlights the need for seeking out expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment, which makes it difficult for a lot of people to get the treatment they require. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' that allows them to return to the NHS for follow up treatment following a private diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
You should always check whether any health professional you're considering working with has a positive track record of working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can check their website or contact them to confirm if they have the experience and expertise required. You can also inquire if they have dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
It is important to choose the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones who will prescribe medication if needed. Find a doctor with special 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 selecting a therapist or psychiatrist, you should also consider your own personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable working with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or culture. You might also prefer to work someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with clients with kinks.