How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and will pay private providers to provide them.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot private clinics are handing out unreliable health assessments. This has led to concerns and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a thorough exam by a psychiatrist. While some individuals have their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only professional who can provide you with an official diagnosis that is recognized for treatment. 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 a Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone has certain traits at times however, those with ADHD tend to exhibit these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactive behaviour includes fidgeting, unable to sit still or feeling anxious, and can also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behaviour can include making reckless decisions, buying things without thinking about the consequences, or jumping into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms can include trouble keeping a focus on tasks that require attention, avoiding 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.
Although many adults are nervous about getting an assessment, it is vital to seek one in order to receive the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to aid you in conquering them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process consists of an examination of your symptoms and their impact on your life, the taking of the DIVA online test and an in-depth interview. During your examination, our psychiatrists will have extensive experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly adept at helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
Assessment
As an adult with ADHD you'll need to go through a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses cannot prescribe medication). It doesn't matter where they are in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, since it is their particular abilities and knowledge that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will conduct an organized interview to gather as much information as is possible about your symptoms, how they impact your relationships and life, and how long you have been suffering from them for. They will also go over your medical history and ask about your family mental health history as well. The doctor will then go over all the information gathered from a variety of sources and determine a diagnosis 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 life. You could be asked to fill out questionnaires regarding your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed activities. They will also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you might be suffering from, as many of them can have similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with a person who knows you well, like someone from your family, a partner or a close friend. This is in order to obtain more confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they affect your relationships and work.
The expert will provide a full explanation of the findings of the evaluation, as well as the treatment options available. This could include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic plan and any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to have an individual assessment with a specialist doctor who will be able to confirm or denial the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if there are any other mental health conditions that could cause your symptoms or the cause of your symptoms is medication.
After the examination your doctor will review the results and recommend the best treatment plan. Based on the specific needs of each individual you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications which help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase brain's chemical signals, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in regulating attention and movements. When the medication is used regularly, most people find that their symptoms get better quickly and efficiently.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. It can also include strategies to reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary modifications that can boost their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, especially in the case of the minority group. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD looks. These people are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or to be refused treatment.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment isn't easy, especially when your insurance doesn't cover it. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics that take into the financial aspects. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans and have interns or residents in training who provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the effects of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware of the fact that their problems with planning, organizing and completing tasks can cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to fail to understand the impact of their ADHD. They may develop strategies for coping that enable them to function at a level below their potential however, these strategies can lead to problems such as anxiety and depression as well as addiction to alcohol or drugs.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS care which makes it difficult for a lot of people to receive the treatment they require. Some pay for private healthcare, but there is no assurance that their physician will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' that will allow patients to return to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following an official diagnosis of ADHD. This could result in them having to continue paying for private medication and CBT therapy or even more expensive specialist coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're considering working with has experience working with adults who have ADHD. You can visit their private adhd assesment website or phone number to confirm that they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also ask if they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is essential to select the best psychiatrist or therapy because they will be the ones who will prescribe medication when needed. Find a doctor who has completed 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.
You should also consider your personal preferences when selecting a psychiatrist or therapist. Some people may feel more comfortable with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or ethnicity. You may also prefer to work someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience working with clients with kinks.