How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling with the burden of long NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many private clinics provide inaccurate assessments. This has led to concern and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full examination with psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only one who can provide you with an official diagnosis that is recognized for treatment. This is particularly important as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to be able to access NHS medication (which is only prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone displays certain characteristics on occasion, those who have ADHD typically exhibit them in a more extreme form. Hyperactivity can manifest as fidgeting or being agitated. It could also be accompanied by issues with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior can include reckless decisions, buying items without considering the implications, or rushing to situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms may include difficulty staying focused on tasks, procrastinating, missing 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.
Many adults are reluctant to seek a diagnosis. But, it is important to receive the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to aid you in conquering them. After being diagnosed, many of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.
The process of assessment involves an open discussion of 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
As an adult suffering from ADHD is required undergo an exhaustive assessment before being diagnosed. This assessment must be performed by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychiatrist, psychologist or a specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It does not matter where they're in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, since it is their particular capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as a specialist.
A doctor will conduct an organized interview to collect as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they impact your life and relationships, and how long you've been experiencing them for. They will also review your medical history and ask questions about family mental health history as well. The doctor will then take into consideration the information gathered from various sources and make a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the test during the assessment, you will be required to complete tests designed to assess your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact of your symptoms on how you function in your daily life. You could be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests, such as puzzles or timed activities. They also consider any other comorbid here conditions that you might be suffering from since many of these can present similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be interviewed during the assessment. 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 give you a detailed report outlining the results of your evaluation and what options are available to treat your condition, including the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for prescriptions (where you pay only the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will explain their holistic treatment plan, as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD may have difficulty getting the diagnosis. The first step is to conduct a private assessment by a specialist doctor, who will confirm or refuse the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with extensive experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if there are other mental health issues that could cause your symptoms or if they are caused by medications.
After the examination the doctor will go over the results and recommend a plan of treatment. Based on the specific needs of each individual you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD receive stimulant medications to alleviate their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost brain's natural chemical messages, like dopamine and norepinephrine, which play an important role in regulating attention and movements. When the medication is used regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve quickly and effectively.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies to lessen frustration and help them manage time and tasks. Some people with ADHD can also benefit from dietary modifications, which can improve their energy levels and concentration.
Some adults are more likely to struggle 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 is like. These groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied a treatment because of this.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be a challenge, particularly in the event that your insurance does not cover it. Hospital-based clinics often offer specialized ADHD clinics which take into account finances. Furthermore they are more likely to be enrolled in a variety of insurance plans, and have interns and residents in training who are able to offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD often struggle to recognize the effects their condition has on their lives. They aren't aware that their issues with organizing, planning and completing tasks can lead to issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to overlook the effects of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function below their potential. However, these can lead to other problems like anxiety, depression, or drug or alcohol addiction.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to access NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their doctors will sign a "shared care agreement" that would allow them to return back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. This can lead to them being required paying for private treatment and CBT - or even more expensive professional coaching services.
You should always check that any health professional you're thinking of working with has a solid track of experience working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can check their website or call them to confirm they have the expertise needed. You can also check whether they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that co-exist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the right psychiatrist or therapy, as they will be the ones to prescribe medication when needed. Choose a doctor that has completed specialized training for adults with 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.
It is also important to consider your personal preferences when choosing the right therapist or psychiatrist. For example, some people prefer someone who is a member of their gender or cultural. You might also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with clients who are kink-allied.