How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to receive answers and will pay private providers to provide them with.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving unreliable assessments. This has caused controversy and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to consult a psychiatrist for a full evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is particularly important as a formal diagnosis is necessary to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to be able to access NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by psychiatrists).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, as well as inattention are the three main signs of ADHD. While everyone exhibits certain traits on occasion but those with ADHD typically exhibit these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactive behaviour includes fidgeting, inability to stay still or feel restless, and may also include trouble with planning and organization. Impulsive behaviour can include making rash decisions, purchasing things without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD symptoms may include difficulty staying focused on work 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 getting an ADHD diagnosis, it's imperative to do so to get 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 recognize your symptoms and provide strategies and tools that will aid you in conquering them. Many of our patients say that once they've been diagnosed, their lives change for the better.
The process of assessment will include an interview about your symptoms and how they impact your life, taking the DIVA online test, and an extensive interview with a clinical psychologist. During your assessment our psychiatrists have years of experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly skilled at helping you to feel comfortable and at ease.
The Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD, you will need to go through an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. The assessment must be performed by medical professionals who are a specialist in ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It does not matter how high their position in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is in relation to their specific abilities, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviews to collect as much information about your symptoms as possible and how they impact your relationships and you, and for how long. They will also ask about your family's mental health history and look over your medical history. The doctor will then review the information gathered from a variety of sources and determine an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment process, you will be asked to take tests that are designed to assess your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily life. You may be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed activities. private adhd assessment take into account any other conditions you might be suffering from as they may have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
The assessment will also involve an interview with a person who knows you well, like 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 you with a thorough explanation of the results of the examination, as well as the options available for treatment. This could include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will go over their holistic recommendations for your care and discuss 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. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health conditions that might explain your symptoms, or the cause of your symptoms is medication.
After the evaluation your doctor will review the results and suggest a plan of treatment. Based on your specific needs, this may involve beginning psychotherapy or medication. Most people with ADHD receive stimulant medications to ease their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase brain's natural chemical messages, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in regulating attention and movements. Most people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies to lessen frustration and help them manage time and work. Some people with ADHD can also benefit from dietary changes that can help to improve their concentration and energy levels.
Some adults may have a harder time getting an diagnosis for ADHD, especially when they are part of a minority group. Certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. These people are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed or even refused treatment.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment can be a challenge, particularly if your insurance doesn't cover it. Hospital-based clinics often offer specialized ADHD clinics which take into the financial aspects. Furthermore these clinics are more likely to participate in a variety of insurance plans and have interns and residents in training who can provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People suffering from ADHD are often unable to comprehend the impact their condition has on their lives. They aren't aware of the fact that their problems in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to be unable to comprehend the impact of their ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform less than their potential. However, these may result in other problems like anxiety, depression or alcohol or drug abuse.
This story highlights the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many people to get the treatment they require. Some people pay for private healthcare but they aren't sure if their doctors will sign a "shared care agreement" which would permit them to go back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. This could mean having to paying for private medication and CBT therapy - or even more expensive professional coaching services.
Make sure to ask if the health professional you're working with has worked with adults who have ADHD. You can check their website or contact them to confirm that they have the expertise needed. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the best psychiatrist or therapy because they will be the ones who prescribe medication when needed. 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.
You should also think about your personal preferences when choosing a therapist or psychiatrist. Some people may feel more comfortable with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or cultural. It is also possible to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with the kink client.