How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients due to the long waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and willing to pay private companies for their services.
However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics provide unreliable assessments. This has sparked concerns and controversy over the quality of care that 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 person who can provide a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is crucial since a formal diagnosis is required to access certain workplace protections, like flexible working, as well as to be able to access NHS medication.
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, as well as inattention are the three most common symptoms of ADHD. While everyone displays some of these characteristics occasionally, those who have ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, inability to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive decisions, buying items without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD symptoms may include difficulty staying focused on work and putting off deadlines, or having difficulty 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 in order to receive the support and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you understand your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to aid you in conquering these. Many of our patients tell us that after being diagnosed, their lives alter for the better.
The assessment process consists of an open discussion of your symptoms and how they affect your life, the taking of the DIVA online exam and an in-depth interview. During your examination our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly competent in helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
Assessment
As an adult with ADHD you'll need undergo an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. The assessment must be performed by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, because it is their unique abilities and knowledge that define them as an expert.
A doctor will conduct a structured interview to gather the most information possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships and the length of time you've been suffering from them for. They will also review your medical history and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The specialist will then consider all the information collected from various sources and make a diagnosis 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 their impact on how you perform in your daily activities. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory, and inkblots as well as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you might be suffering from, as many of these can present similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with someone who is familiar with you - such as an individual from your family, partner or a close friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they affect your work or relationships.
The person you speak to will be able to provide you a detailed report outlining the findings of your examination and the options available for treatment, such as a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will discuss their recommended holistic plan for your treatment and will discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
The process of determining if you have ADHD can be challenging for adults with the condition. The first step is to conduct a private examination by a specialist doctor, who can either confirm or refuse the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able to tell you if you have other mental health issues that may be the cause of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are related to the medications you're taking.
Once the assessment is completed your doctor will then discuss the results and suggest the best treatment plan. Depending on your needs, this could 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 more info play an important role in the development of attention and movement. The majority of people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to lessen frustration and improve their ability to manage time and work. Some people with ADHD may also benefit from dietary modifications that can boost their energy levels.
Some adults may have a difficult time obtaining the diagnosis of ADHD particularly if they belong to an ethnic minority. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD looks like. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or be not treated.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatments can be difficult, especially if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take the cost into account. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans, and have residents or interns in training who can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They don't realize that their problems with organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to overlook the effects of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform less than their potential. However, these could result in other problems, such as anxiety, depression and alcohol or drug addiction.
This story highlights the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are unable to access NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but there is no assurance that their doctor will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' which will allow them to return to the NHS for follow up treatment following an official diagnosis of ADHD. This could result in them having to continue to pay for private medication and CBT therapy and even more costly specialist coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're thinking of working with has expertise working with adults who have ADHD. You can look up their website or contact them to confirm that they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also ask whether they've treated comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is crucial, as they are the ones who prescribes your medication in the event of need. Find a doctor who has 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 selecting a therapist or psychiatrist, you must also be aware of your personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable working with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or cultural. It is also possible to work someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with the kink client.