How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in many patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private companies for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving inaccurate 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 examination to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only one who can give a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is crucial since a formal diagnosis is required to be able to use certain workplace protections, including flexible working, and to access NHS medication.
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While how to get a private adhd assessment will show some of these traits on occasion, those who suffer from ADHD tend to display these to a more severe degree than others. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, being unable to remain still, or feeling uneasy, and could also have issues with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive purchases without considering the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks, procrastinating, missing 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.
Many adults are hesitant about seeking a diagnosis, it is imperative to do so in order to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It will also help you understand your symptoms and help you find ways and methods to conquer them. Many of our patients say that after being diagnosed, their lives are changed for the better.
The assessment process involves an open discussion about your symptoms and how they impact your life, taking the DIVA online test, and a detailed clinical interview. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel at ease.
The Assessment
You will need to undergo an extensive assessment as an adult with ADHD before you are diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a specialist nurse, psychologist or psychiatrist (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their rank in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, as it comes down to their specific abilities, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A specialist will utilize structured interviewing to collect as much information on your symptoms as they can, including how they affect your relationships with others, and for how long. They will also inquire about your family's history of mental health and review your medical history. The specialist will then consider all the information gathered from a variety of sources and make an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the process of assessment, you will be asked to complete tests that are designed to evaluate your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily life. These may include questionnaires about your symptoms, memory, and inkblots as well as timed tasks or puzzles. They will also take into account any other conditions you may be suffering from since they may have similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed as part of the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they impact your work or relationships.
The specialist you meet with will be able give you a comprehensive report detailing the results of your evaluation and what options are available for treatment, such as an agreement to share care with your GP for medications (where you pay just the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will explain their holistic plan and any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to have a private assessment by a specialist doctor, who can either confirm or refuse a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor will also be able tell you if you have other mental health issues that may explain some of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are caused by the medication you are on.
Once the test is complete the doctor will review the results with you and suggest a treatment plan. Based on the specific requirements of each patient you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to ease their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase the amount of brain's natural chemical messengers, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a crucial part in regulating attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, the majority of people notice that their symptoms get better quickly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can also include strategies to reduce their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary modifications that can boost their energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, particularly if they are from an ethnic minority. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD looks. These people are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed or be not treated.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments isn't easy, especially when you do not have insurance. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take finances into consideration. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans and have residents or interns in training who offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They don't realize that their problems with organizing, planning and completing tasks could cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to overlook the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function at a lower level than they could. However, these can result in other problems like depression, anxiety, or drug or alcohol addiction.
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 many to access the treatment they require. Some pay for private health care but they aren't sure if their GPs will agree to an "shared care agreement" that would allow them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up care after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. This can lead to them being required paying for private medication and CBT therapy - or even more expensive professional coaching services.
It is important to ensure that any health professional you're considering working with has a positive track record of working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can check this by looking on their website or contacting them to ensure that they have the expertise you require. You can also check whether they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that co-exist with ADHD).
Finding the right therapist or psychiatrist is crucial, as they are the ones who prescribes your medication, if required. Look for 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.
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. It is also possible to work someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience working with the kink client.