How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling under the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private firms for their services.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics are providing inaccurate assessments. This has sparked concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to consult a psychiatrist for a full examination to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only one who can give a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is crucial as a formal diagnosis is necessary to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by psychiatrists).
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone will show some of these traits occasionally, those who suffer from ADHD are likely to show them to a much more extensive degree than other people. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting or being agitated. It could also be accompanied by issues with planning and organizing. Impulsive behaviour can include making rash decisions, purchasing items without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD can be identified by difficulty in staying focused and avoiding deadlines, procrastination, or a lack of 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 seeking a diagnosis, it is imperative to do so to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you understand your symptoms and help you find strategies and tools to deal with them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process consists of an examination of your symptoms and their impact on your life, and the completion of the DIVA online exam, and an extensive interview. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel at ease.
Assessment
You'll need to go through a thorough assessment as an adult with ADHD before being diagnosed. The assessment must be performed by medical professionals who are a specialist within ADHD. This can be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, because it is their unique skills and knowledge that defines them as a specialist.
A specialist will employ structured interviews to collect as much information on your symptoms as they can, including how they affect your relationships and you, and for how long. They will also ask about the mental health history of your family members and examine your medical history. The doctor will then review all the information gathered from various sources and determine an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the test, you will be required to take tests designed to assess your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact of your symptoms on how you function in your daily life. This could include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory, and inkblots, as well as tests such as puzzles or timed tasks. They'll also look at any other comorbid disorders that you might have, since many of them can present symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned as part of the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they impact your work and relationships.
The expert will be able provide you with a thorough explanation of the outcome of the evaluation, as well as the options available for treatment. This could include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will present their holistic plan as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
The process of determining if you have ADHD isn't easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to get a private assessment with a specialist doctor who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that may be the cause of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are due to medication you're taking.
After the evaluation, your clinician will discuss the results and suggest an approach to treatment. Based on your specific needs, this may involve the use of psychotherapy or medications. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications which help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase brain's natural chemical messages, such as norepinephrine and dopamine which play a crucial role in the development of attention and movement. Most people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from therapy focusing on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to reduce stress and help them manage time and manage their tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD also benefit from diet changes that can help to improve their concentration and energy levels.
Certain adults might have a harder time getting an diagnosis for ADHD, especially those who belong to minorities. This is because some medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD looks like. They are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or be denied treatment.
Finding affordable treatments and evaluations can be challenging, especially in the event that you don't have insurance. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take financial concerns into consideration. These clinics are also more likely to accept a variety of insurance plans and have residents or interns in training who can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to understand the impact their condition has on their lives. They don't always realize that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks lead to issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to not understand the effects of ADHD. They may develop strategies for coping that enable them to function below their potential, but these can lead to problems such as depression and anxiety as well as addiction to alcohol or drugs.
private adhd assessment to seek expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many people to receive the treatment they need. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but there is no assurance that their doctor will agree to a 'shared care agreement' that allows them to go back to the NHS for follow up treatment following a private 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 thinking of working with has a solid track of experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. You can look up their website or contact them to confirm they have the expertise needed. You can also inquire if they have dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Choosing the right therapist or psychiatrist is important, because they are the ones who will prescribe your medication, if required. Find a doctor who has 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, you must also take into account your own personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or culture. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with the kink client.