How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and willing to pay private providers for their services.
However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many private clinics are handing out unreliable health assessments. This has sparked some controversy and raised concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full examination by a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a definitive diagnosis for treatment. This is important because a formal diagnosis will be required to access certain workplace protections, like flexible working and to access NHS medication.
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone has some of these characteristics on occasion however, those with ADHD typically exhibit these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, inability to stay still or feel uneasy, and could also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can include reckless purchases without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD can be characterized by difficulty in staying focused and avoiding deadlines, procrastination or an inability ability to think 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 ADHD diagnosis, it's essential that you do so to get the support and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It will also help you understand your symptoms and find ways and methods to conquer them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.
The process of assessment will include a conversation about your symptoms and how they affect your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test, and a detailed interview with a clinical psychologist. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel at ease.
Assessment
As an adult suffering from ADHD is required to undergo a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. This assessment must be performed by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It does not matter what their place in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals as it comes down to their particular skills, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A specialist will utilize structured interviewing techniques to gather as much information about your symptoms as possible and how they impact you and your relationships and how long. They will also go over your medical background and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The doctor will then take into consideration all the information collected from various sources and determine a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment process you will be required to take tests that are designed to evaluate your symptoms and determine their impact on your daily functioning. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory, and inkblots as well as puzzles or timed tasks. They will also consider any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from since many of them can have similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
The assessment will also involve an interview with someone who knows you well - for example, an individual from your family, partner or friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine whether they impact your work or relationships.
The specialist will be able to provide a full explanation of the outcome of the examination, as well as the treatment options available. This may include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will discuss their holistic recommendations for your care and will go over any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have difficulty obtaining the diagnosis. The first step is a private examination by a specialist doctor who can either confirm or refuse the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that could cause your symptoms, or if your symptoms are caused by the medication you're taking.
After the examination the doctor will go over the results and suggest an approach to treatment. Based on the requirements of each patient, you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Many people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to ease their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase the brain's natural chemical messages like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a significant role in regulating attention and movements. When the medication is used regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve quickly and effectively.
Adults suffering from ADHD adhd assessment psychiatrist can benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies to lessen frustration and improve their ability to manage time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD also benefit from diet modifications, which can help to improve their energy levels and focus.
Some adults may have a harder time getting the diagnosis of ADHD, especially when they are part of minorities. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD appears to be. They are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or be not treated.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments isn't easy, especially when your insurance doesn't cover it. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics that take into consideration financial concerns. Additionally they are more likely to take part in a variety of insurance plans, and have interns and residents in training that can provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the effects of their condition on their lives. They don't realize that their difficulties with organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are particularly likely to fail to understand the impact of their ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function below their potential. However, these can result in other problems, such as anxiety, depression, or drug or alcohol abuse.
This story highlights the need for seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for a lot of people to receive the treatment they require. Some pay for private healthcare, but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will be willing to sign an "shared care agreement" which would permit them to return back to the NHS for follow-up treatment following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. This could mean having to to pay for private treatment and CBT and even more costly professional coaching services.
Always verify that the health professional you're working with has worked with adults who have ADHD. You can check this by looking up their website, or contacting them to confirm they have the knowledge you need. You can also inquire whether they've treated comorbid conditions (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones who prescribe medication if necessary. Look for a doctor who has completed specialized training for adults with 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. Some people may feel more comfortable working with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or culture. You may also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with clients with kinks.