How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in many patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private companies for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing inaccurate assessments. This has caused controversy and concern over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You will need to see an Psychiatrist for a thorough evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. While some people get their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only one who can give you an official diagnosis for treatment. This is crucial because a valid diagnosis is required to be able to use certain workplace protections, such as flexible working and to be able to access NHS medications.
Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three main signs of ADHD. While everyone is likely to exhibit certain traits occasionally, those with ADHD tend to display these to a greater extent than others. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, inability to sit still or feeling restless, and may also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive choices, purchasing items without considering the implications, or rushing to situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD symptoms can include trouble staying focused on work that require attention, avoiding deadlines, or finding it difficult 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 to pursue a diagnosis. However, this is important to receive the assistance and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you understand the signs and symptoms, and help you find strategies and tools that will help you overcome these. After being diagnosed, many of our patients claim that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves a discussion about your symptoms and how they impact your life, and the completion of the DIVA online exam and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel at ease.
The Assessment
You will need to undergo a thorough examination as an adult suffering from ADHD before you are diagnosed. The assessment must be performed by an expert in healthcare who is an expert in ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter how high their position in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is in relation to their particular capabilities, experience, and knowledge that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing techniques 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 inquire about the mental health history of your family members and review your medical history. The specialist will then consider the information gathered from a variety of sources and make an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment during the assessment, you will be required to take tests that are designed to assess your symptoms. These tests will also determine 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 comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from since many of these can present similar symptoms as 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 friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they affect your work or relationships.
The expert you meet with will be able to give you a detailed report outlining the results of your evaluation and the options available for treatment, such as an agreement to share care with your GP for prescriptions (where you pay just the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic treatment plan, as well as any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to conduct a private assessment by a specialist physician who will confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able tell you if you have other mental health issues that may explain some of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are caused by the medications you're taking.
After the assessment, your clinician will discuss the results and recommend an approach to treatment. Based on your needs, this may involve beginning psychotherapy or medication. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to alleviate their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost brain's natural chemical messages, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a crucial role in regulating attention and movements. When the medication is used regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from here therapy focusing on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to reduce stress and improve their ability to manage time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD may benefit from dietary changes that improve their energy levels.
Some adults may be more difficult to get the diagnosis of ADHD, especially those who belong to an ethnic minority. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD looks. The people in these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly when you do not have insurance. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take finances into consideration. Additionally they are more likely to take part in a range of different insurance plans, and have residents and interns in training who 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 always realize that their issues with planning, organising and completing tasks can 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 allow them to function below their potential. However, these may cause other issues like depression, anxiety and alcohol or drug abuse.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment, which makes it difficult for many people to receive the treatment they need. Some pay for private healthcare, but are not guaranteed that their doctors will sign a "shared care agreement" that would allow them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
It is important to ensure that any health professional you are considering working with has a positive track of experience working with adults with ADHD. You can check this by looking up their website, or calling them to make sure that they have the expertise you require. You can also check whether they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy because they will be the ones who will prescribe medication if necessary. Find a doctor with specialized training on 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 should also be aware of your personal preferences. For instance, some people are more comfortable with someone who is of their gender or cultural. It is also possible to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with clients who are kink-allied.