How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling with the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and are willing to pay private companies for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided inaccurate assessments. This has caused concern and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to visit an Psychiatrist for a thorough assessment in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only person who can give a formal diagnosis for treatment. full report is particularly important as a formal diagnosis is necessary in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone displays some of these characteristics on occasion, those who have ADHD often show these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactive behavior can include the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It can also indicate issues with planning and organizing. Insane behavior may include making rash decisions, buying items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD symptoms may include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks and putting off 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 having an ADHD diagnosis, it's imperative to do so to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It can also help you to understand your symptoms and find strategies and tools to deal with them. Many of our patients say that once they have been diagnosed, their lives alter for the better.
The assessment process involves an open discussion about your symptoms and how they impact your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test and an in-depth interview with a clinical psychologist. In 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 suffering from ADHD you'll need to go through a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. This assessment must be performed by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their rank in the pecking order of healthcare professionals is in relation to their specific abilities, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will utilize structured interviewing to collect as much information about your symptoms as is possible as they can, including how they affect your relationships and you and how long they last. They will also inquire about your family's mental health history and review your medical history. The doctor will then take into consideration all the information gathered from a variety of sources before determining an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment, you will be required to take tests that are designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal the impact of your symptoms on how you perform in your daily life. This could include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots as well as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They also consider any other conditions you may be suffering from, as they may have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be interviewed as part of the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they affect your work and relationships.
The person you speak to will be able to provide you a thorough report that outlines the results of your evaluation and what options are available to treat your condition, including the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for prescriptions (where you pay just the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will present their holistic plan and any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have difficulty obtaining an assessment. The first step is a private assessment by a specialist doctor, who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists who have extensive experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if you have other mental health conditions that might explain your symptoms, or the cause of your symptoms is medication.
Once the assessment is completed, your clinician will discuss the results with you and suggest the best treatment plan. Based on the specific requirements of each patient you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that aid in reducing their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost the brain's natural chemical messages like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a significant role in attention and movements. Many people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy focusing on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can also include practical strategies to lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Some people with ADHD can also benefit from dietary modifications that can boost their energy levels.
Certain adults might be more difficult to get the diagnosis of ADHD, especially those who belong to minorities. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. People from these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.
Finding affordable treatments and evaluations isn't easy, especially if you don't have insurance. Hospital-based clinics often offer specialized ADHD clinics that take into consideration financial concerns. Additionally they are more likely to participate in a variety of insurance plans and have residents and interns in training who can provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware the fact that their struggles with planning, organising and completing tasks cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to not be able to recognize the impact of their ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform below their potential. However, these may lead to other problems like depression, anxiety or alcohol or drug abuse.
This article highlights the need to seek expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS treatment, which makes it difficult for many people to receive the treatment they require. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will agree to a 'shared care agreement' which will allow patients to return to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following an individual diagnosis of ADHD. This could mean 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 thinking of working with has expertise working with adults who have ADHD. You can do this by checking on their website or calling them to ensure that they have the expertise you need. You can also check whether they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that co-exist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones who will prescribe medication if necessary. 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 choosing a therapist, or psychiatrist, it is important to be aware of your personal preferences. For instance, some people will be more comfortable with an therapist who is a member of their gender or culture. You might also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients who are kink-allied.