How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is unable to diagnose ADHD in many patients due to the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private companies to provide them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing unreliable assessments. This has caused concern and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to visit an Psychiatrist for a thorough assessment in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only professional who can give you an official diagnosis that is recognized for treatment. This is particularly important as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also gain access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by psychiatrists).
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone displays certain traits occasionally, those who have ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, unable to stay still or feel anxious, and can also be a problem with planning and organization. Insane behavior may include making rash choices, purchasing items without considering the implications, or rushing to situations without proper preparation. Inattentive ADD is characterized by difficulty staying focused, procrastination, missing deadlines, or a lack of ability 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 reluctant to pursue an assessment. However, it's necessary in order to get the support and treatment that you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms, and find strategies and tools that will assist you in overcoming these. Many of our patients report that once they've been diagnosed, their lives alter for the better.
The process of assessment involves an examination of your symptoms and how they affect your life, the completion of the DIVA online exam and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel at ease.
The Assessment
As an adult suffering from ADHD you'll need to go through an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is an expert in ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter where they are in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, since it is their specific abilities and knowledge that define them as an expert.
A specialist will employ structured interviews to gather as much information about your symptoms as possible, including how they affect you and your relationships, and for how long. They will also review your medical background and ask questions about family mental health history as well. The doctor will then go over all the information gathered from a variety sources and formulate a diagnosis based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the process of assessment, you will be asked to complete tests designed to evaluate your symptoms and assess the impact they have on your daily life. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory, and inkblots as well as puzzles or timed tasks. They also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from, as many of them can have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed as part of the evaluation. This is done to gather more corroborative evidence of your ADHD symptoms and to determine how they impact your relationships and work.
The expert will provide a full explanation of the outcome of the evaluation, as well as the options available for treatment. This may include a shared-care contract with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic plan and any medication they feel is appropriate.
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Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to have a private assessment with a specialist doctor who can confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health conditions that could explain your symptoms or if they are caused by medication.
After the evaluation, your clinician will discuss the results and recommend a plan of treatment. Based on the requirements of each patient you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs which help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to boost the supply 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 regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve quickly and efficiently.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This could also include practical strategies to lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Certain people with ADHD might also benefit from diet changes that improve their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, particularly when they belong to an ethnic minority. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. People from these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments isn't easy, especially in the event that you do not have insurance. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take finances into consideration. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans, and have interns or residents in training who can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their difficulties in organising, planning and completing tasks cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to be unaware of the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these could lead to other problems, such as anxiety, depression, or drug or alcohol dependence.
This story highlights the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS care, which makes it difficult for many to receive the treatment they require. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but there is no assurance that their physician will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' that will allow them to go back to the NHS for follow up treatment following an individual diagnosis of ADHD. This could result in them having to continue paying for private medication and CBT therapy - or even more expensive specialist coaching services.
Always ensure that any health professional you're thinking of working with has a solid track record of working with adults with ADHD. You can look up their website or contact them to confirm they have the experience and expertise required. You can also inquire whether they've dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Choosing the right therapist or psychiatrist 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.
You should also think about your personal preferences when choosing a therapist or psychiatrist. Some people might be more comfortable with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or cultural. You might also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with kink clients.