How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling under the burden of long NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to receive answers and will pay private providers to give them.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics are handing out unreliable health assessments. This has sparked some controversy and raised concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You will need to see a psychiatrist for a full assessment in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is important because a formal diagnosis will be required to access certain workplace protections, like flexible working, and to get access to NHS medication.
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone displays certain traits occasionally, those who have ADHD often show these symptoms in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It can also indicate issues with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior can include reckless decisions, buying items without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD symptoms can include trouble staying focused 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.
Many adults are hesitant about getting an assessment, it is essential that you do so to receive the assistance and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It can help you understand your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to aid you in conquering them. Many of our patients tell us that after being diagnosed, their lives change for the better.
The assessment process will involve a conversation about your symptoms and how they affect your life, taking the DIVA online test and a detailed interview with a clinical psychologist. During your assessment our psychiatrists will have extensive experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are competent in helping you feel at ease and comfortable.
Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD, you will need undergo a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. This needs to be performed by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This could be a specialist psychologist, nurse or psychiatrist (though nurses cannot prescribe medication). It does not matter where they're in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, since it is their unique skills and knowledge that defines them as an expert.
A specialist will utilize structured interviewing to gather as much information about your symptoms as is possible, including how they affect you and your relationships, and for how long. They will also ask about the mental health history of your family members and review your medical history. The doctor will then take into consideration all the information gathered from various sources and determine an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment you will be asked to take tests that are designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal their impact on how you perform in your daily activities. You could be asked to complete questionnaires regarding your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed activities. They will also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from, as many of these can present similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed as part of the assessment. This is done to gather more confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to see whether they affect your relationships or work.
The expert you meet with will be able to provide you a comprehensive report detailing the results of your evaluation and the options available for treatment, such as the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for prescriptions (where you pay just the NHS prescription charge). The specialist will discuss their recommended holistic plan for your care and discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to conduct a private assessment by a specialist doctor who will confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with years of experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able to inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that may explain some of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are related to the medications you're taking.
Once the test is complete, your clinician will discuss the results with you and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Depending on the requirements of each patient you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that aid in reducing their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost the availability of the brain's natural chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play an important role in the development of attention and movement. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and effectively.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can also include practical strategies to reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from diet changes, which can improve their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, particularly if they are from an ethnic minority. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD appears to be. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed or to be not treated.
Finding affordable treatments and evaluations isn't easy, especially if you do not have insurance. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics that take into consideration financial concerns. These clinics are also more likely to accept a variety of insurance plans and have residents or interns in training who provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the effects their conditions have on their lives. They often don't notice that their difficulties with planning, organising and completing tasks lead to issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to overlook the effects of ADHD. They may develop strategies for coping that allow them to function at a level below their potential however, these strategies could lead to issues like anxiety and depression or the use of alcohol or drugs.
This story highlights the need for seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are unable to access NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private health care but are not guaranteed that their doctors will sign a "shared care agreement" that will allow them to return back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. They could be required to continue paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
It is important to ensure that any health professional you're considering working with has a solid track record of working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can visit their website or phone number to confirm they have the experience and expertise required. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
her latest blog is important to choose the best psychiatrist or therapy because they will be the ones to prescribe medication when needed. Choose a doctor that 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, it is important to be aware of your personal preferences. For instance, some individuals are more comfortable with an therapist who is their gender or ethnicity. It is also possible to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients who are kink-allied.