How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is unable to diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to get answers and will pay private companies to provide them.
However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics are handing out unreliable assessments. This has caused concern and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to go through a complete exam by a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a definitive diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is especially important since the need for a formal diagnosis is essential for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to gain access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by psychiatrists).
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone displays some of these characteristics occasionally but those with ADHD typically exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, unable to sit still or feeling uneasy, and could also have issues with planning and organisation. Impulsive behaviour can include making reckless decisions, buying items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty staying focused on tasks that require attention, avoiding 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 get a diagnosis. But, it is necessary in order to get the assistance and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you comprehend the signs and symptoms, and help you find strategies and tools that will assist you in overcoming these. 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 how they affect your life, the taking of the DIVA online exam and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel at ease.
The Assessment
As an adult with ADHD is required to go through a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their rank in the pecking order of healthcare professionals is as it comes down to their particular skills, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A doctor will conduct a structured interview to gather as much information as is possible about your symptoms, how they impact your relationships and life, and how long you have been suffering from them for. They will also go over your medical history and ask questions about family mental health history as well. The doctor will then review all the information collected from a variety of sources and make an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment process you will be required to take tests that are designed to assess your symptoms and assess the impact they have on your daily functioning. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots as well as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They also consider any other conditions you may be suffering from as they may have similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be questioned as part of the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine if they affect your work or relationships.
The specialist you meet with will be able give you a detailed report outlining the results of your evaluation and the available options to treat your condition, including the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for medications (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will discuss their holistic recommendations for your care and will go over any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD may have difficulty getting a diagnosis. The first step is to have a private assessment by a specialist physician who will be able to confirm or deny the diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also inform you if there are other mental health conditions that might cause your symptoms or if they are caused by medications.
After the evaluation is completed your doctor will then discuss the results with you and suggest the best treatment plan. Based on your specific requirements, this could mean starting medication or psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that aid in reducing their symptoms. These medicines are believed to increase the availability of the brain's chemical messengers, like norepinephrine and dopamine, which play a key part in regulating attention and movement. When the medication is used regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve quickly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy focusing on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can also include practical strategies to lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and tasks. Certain people with ADHD may also benefit from diet changes that can boost their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, particularly when they belong to a minority group. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. The people in these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be a challenge, particularly when your insurance doesn't cover it. However, private adhd assessment adult have specialized ADHD clinics that take financial concerns 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 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 always realize that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to fail to understand the impact of their ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these can cause other issues, such as anxiety, depression or alcohol or drug dependence.
This story highlights the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS care which makes it difficult for a lot of people to get the treatment they need. Some people pay for private healthcare, but aren't guaranteed that their doctors will sign a "shared care agreement" which would permit them to return back to the NHS for follow-up treatment following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're working with has worked with adults with ADHD. You can do this by checking on their website or contacting them to confirm that they have the experience you require. You can also inquire whether they've treated comorbid conditions (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Finding the right therapist or psychiatrist is crucial, as they will be the one who prescribes your medication if needed. Find a doctor with special 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 consider your personal preferences when choosing the right therapist or psychiatrist. For example, some people will be more comfortable with a psychiatrist who is their gender or ethnicity. You might also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience working with the kink client.