How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling under the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and will pay private providers to give them.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot of these private clinics are providing unreliable health assessments. This has sparked controversy and concern over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a thorough examination by psychiatrist. While some individuals have their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only professional who can provide you with an official diagnosis for medication. This is particularly important as an official diagnosis is required to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also gain access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, as well as inattention are the three most common signs of ADHD. While everyone is likely to exhibit certain traits on occasion, those who suffer from ADHD tend to display these traits to a greater extent than others. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, unable to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also have issues with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive purchases without considering the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms may include difficulty staying focused on tasks, procrastinating, missing 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 to pursue a diagnosis. However, it's essential to receive the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It can help you recognize your symptoms and provide strategies and tools to help you overcome them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves a discussion about your symptoms and how they affect your life, the completion of the DIVA online exam, and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel comfortable.
Assessment
You'll need to go through an exhaustive assessment as an adult with ADHD before you can be diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter where they are in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, since it is their specific abilities and knowledge that define them as an expert.
A specialist will employ structured interviewing to collect as much information about your symptoms as is possible, including how they affect your relationships and you and how long. They will also ask about your family's mental health history and look over your medical history. The doctor will then go over all the information collected from a variety sources and determine a diagnosis based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the examination, you will be required to take tests that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact they have on your function in your daily life. You might be asked to answer questions regarding your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed exercises. They will also take into account any other conditions you may 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 - for example, a family member, partner or a close friend. This is to get further evidence to support your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they affect your relationships and work.
The person you speak to will be able give you a thorough report that outlines the findings of your examination and what options are available to treat your condition, including the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for prescriptions (where you only pay the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will discuss their recommended holistic plan for your care and will go over any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to obtain an individual assessment by a specialist physician who can confirm or deny the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists who have extensive knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that might be the cause of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are due to medications you're taking.
After the assessment your doctor will review the results and suggest a plan of treatment. Based on your needs, this may involve beginning psychotherapy or medication. The majority of people suffering from ADHD take stimulant medication to alleviate their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost the supply of the brain's natural chemical messengers, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play an important part in regulating attention and movement. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve quickly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy focusing on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This could include strategies that can reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and tasks. Some people with ADHD also benefit from dietary changes that can help to improve their concentration and energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, particularly in the case of an ethnic minority. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. https://www.kaciesweeney.top/health/5-reasons-why-getting-a-private-adhd-assessment-is-the-best-decision-for-your-health/ are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or even refused treatment.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be a challenge, particularly when your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take financial concerns into account. Additionally, these clinics are more likely to participate in a range of different insurance plans and have interns and residents 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 aren't aware of the fact that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks could cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to fail to understand the effects of their ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that enable them to function at a level lower than their capabilities however, these strategies can cause problems such as anxiety and depression, or alcohol or drug abuse.
This story highlights the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are unable to access NHS care because of logjammed waiting lists. Some pay for private healthcare, but have no assurance that their doctor will sign a'shared care agreement' which will allow patients to return to the NHS for follow-up treatment after receiving an official diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Make sure to ask if the health professional you're thinking of working with has expertise working with adults with ADHD. You can check this by looking at their website or by calling them to ensure that they have the expertise you require. You can also inquire whether they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is important to choose the right psychiatrist or therapy, as they will be the ones to prescribe medication when needed. 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 take into account your own personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable working with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or cultural. You might also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients with kinks.