How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling with the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.
However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics are handing out unreliable assessments. This has sparked concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to consult an Psychiatrist for a thorough examination to be diagnosed with ADHD. While some people get their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only professional who can provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis for the use of medication. This is essential because a formal diagnosis will be required to gain access to certain workplace protections, such as flexible working, as well as to access NHS medication.
Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three most common symptoms of ADHD. While everyone exhibits certain characteristics at times, those who have ADHD often show these symptoms in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It may also include issues with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior may include making rash decisions, purchasing things without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks 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 hesitant to seek an assessment. However, it's important to receive the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can help you understand your symptoms and provide strategies and tools to help you overcome these. Once diagnosed, many of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves an open discussion of your symptoms and how they affect your life, and the completion of the DIVA online test and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel relaxed.
Assessment
As an adult with ADHD, you will need undergo a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a specialist nurse, psychologist or psychiatrist (though nurses cannot prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, because it is their particular skills and knowledge that defines them as an expert.
A specialist will conduct an organized interview to gather as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they impact your relationships and life, and the length of time you've been suffering from them for. They will also review your medical history and ask questions about the mental health history of your family as well. The doctor will then go over all the information collected from various sources and formulate a diagnosis according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the assessment process you will be asked to complete tests that are designed to evaluate your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily life. You might be asked to fill out questionnaires about your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed tasks. They will also consider any other disorders you might have, since they may present symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be questioned as part of the assessment. This is to get further confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to determine how they impact your relationships or work.
The expert will give you a detailed account of the findings of the examination, as well as the options available for treatment. This could include a shared-care contract with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will discuss their recommended holistic plan for your treatment and will discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
private adhd assessments suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time getting the diagnosis. The first step is to have a private examination by a specialist physician who can either confirm or deny a 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 might explain some of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are due to medications you're taking.
After the assessment the doctor will go over the results and recommend the best treatment plan. Depending on your requirements, this could mean beginning psychotherapy or medication. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medication that help to improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance brain's chemical signals, like dopamine and norepinephrine, which play an important role in regulating attention and movements. When the medication is used regularly, the majority of people notice that their symptoms get better quickly and effectively.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can also include strategies to lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary modifications, which can aid in improving their energy levels and focus.
Certain adults are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, especially in the case of a minority group. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or be not treated.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly in the event that your insurance does not cover it. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics which take into the financial aspects. Additionally they are more likely to be enrolled in a range of different insurance plans, and have interns and residents in training who are able to offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They don't realize that their issues with organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause problems at work or relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to not understand the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform below their potential. However, these may result in other problems, such as depression, anxiety and alcohol or drug addiction.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS care, which makes it difficult for many to access the treatment they require. Some people pay for private healthcare, but aren't guaranteed that their doctors will sign the terms of a "shared care agreement" that would allow them to return back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. This could mean having to paying for CBT therapy and medication on their own - or even more expensive specialist coaching services.
It is important to ensure whether any health professional you're thinking of working with has a good track experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. You can look up their website or call them to confirm that they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also ask if they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is crucial, as they will be the one who prescribes your medication in the event of need. 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.
It is also important to consider your personal preferences when choosing a therapist or psychiatrist. For instance, some people will be more comfortable with an therapist who is of their gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with clients with kinks.