How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling under the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving unreliable assessments. This has caused concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to undergo a thorough examination by psychiatrist. While some individuals have their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only person who can give you a formally recognised diagnosis for the use of medication. This is particularly important as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to gain access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While adhd assessment private displays certain traits occasionally but those with ADHD often show these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactive behaviour includes fidgeting, unable to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also be a problem with planning and organization. Impulsive behaviour can include making rash decisions, purchasing items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty staying focused on tasks and putting off 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 about getting a diagnosis, it is vital to seek one to get the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can help you recognize your symptoms and provide strategies and tools that will help you overcome these. After being diagnosed, many of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The process of assessment will include an open discussion about your symptoms and how they impact your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test, and an extensive clinical interview. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel relaxed.
Assessment
As an adult suffering from ADHD is required undergo a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their place in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is as it comes down to their particular abilities, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A specialist will employ structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information on your symptoms as they can as they can, including how they affect you and your relationships and how long. They will also inquire about the mental health history of your family members and examine your medical history. The specialist will then review all the information gathered from a variety of sources and formulate a diagnosis based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the process of assessment you will be required to complete tests that are designed to assess your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily functioning. You might be asked to fill out questionnaires regarding your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests such as puzzles or timed tasks. They will also consider any other disorders you may have, as they may present symptoms similar to those associated ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed as part of the assessment. This is to get further confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to see whether they affect your relationships and work.
The expert will give you a detailed account of the results of the assessment, and the treatment options available. This could include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will outline their holistic plan and any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD might have difficulty obtaining an assessment. The first step is to have a private assessment by a specialist physician who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able to inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that could explain some of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are caused by the medication you're taking.
After the assessment, your clinician will discuss the results and recommend the best treatment plan. Based on your specific requirements, this could mean the use of psychotherapy or medications. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that aid in reducing their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance the brain's natural chemical messages such as norepinephrine and dopamine which play a significant role in attention and movements. Most people notice that their symptoms get better when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from a program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This could also include strategies to lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Certain people with ADHD may also benefit from diet changes that improve their energy levels.
Some adults may have a difficult time obtaining the diagnosis of ADHD, especially when they are part of a minority group. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. These groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment because of this.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment can be difficult, especially in the event that your insurance does not cover it. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take the cost into consideration. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans and have residents or interns in training that 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 could cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to not be able to recognize the impact of their ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function at a level below their capacity, but these can lead to problems such as anxiety and depression, or the use of alcohol or drugs.
This story highlights the need for seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are struggling to get NHS care because of logjammed waiting lists. Others pay to access private healthcare, but have no assurance that their physician will agree to a 'shared care agreement' that allows them to return to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following a private diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Always verify that the health professional you're considering working with has worked with adults who have ADHD. You can check their website or contact them to confirm they have the experience and expertise required. You can also check whether they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
Finding the right therapist or psychiatrist is important, because they are the ones who will prescribe your medication if needed. Find a doctor with specialized training in 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 take into account your own personal preferences. Some people may feel more comfortable working with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or ethnicity. It is also possible to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with kink clients.