How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling under the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private companies for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing inaccurate assessments. This has caused concern and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a thorough examination with psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only professional who can provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis for treatment. This is especially important since a formal diagnosis is necessary for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to gain access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone displays some of these characteristics on occasion however, those with ADHD often show these symptoms in a more severe form. Hyperactive behavior can include fidgeting or being restless. It could also be accompanied by problems with planning and organization. Insane behavior may include making rash decisions, buying items without thinking about the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper preparation. Inattentive ADD can be identified by a lack of focus and avoiding deadlines, procrastination, 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 hesitant to pursue a diagnosis. However, this is important to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It can help you recognize the signs and symptoms, and help you find strategies and tools that will aid you in conquering these. Once diagnosed, many of our patients claim that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves an open discussion of your symptoms and how they impact your life, the completion of the DIVA online test and an extensive interview. During your assessment, our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly adept at helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD you'll need to go through an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. This must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is a specialist in ADHD. This can be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, as it is their unique skills and knowledge that defines them as an expert.
A specialist will use an organized interview to collect as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships, and the length of time you've been experiencing them for. They will also ask about your family's mental health history and examine your medical history. The doctor will then go over all the information gathered from various sources and determine a diagnosis based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the assessment process you will be asked to complete tests that are designed to measure your symptoms and assess their impact on your daily life. You could be asked to answer questions regarding your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests like puzzles or timed activities. They will also take into account any other conditions you may be suffering from as many of them can have similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with someone who is familiar with you - such as an individual from your family, partner or a friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine whether they affect your work or relationships.
The expert will give you a detailed account of the outcome of the evaluation, as well as the options available for treatment. This could include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic recommendations for your care and will go over any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD can be challenging for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to conduct a private assessment by a specialist physician who can confirm or denial a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. The doctor can also inform you if there are any other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms or if they are caused by medications.
Once the assessment is completed, your clinician will discuss the results and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Depending on your requirements, this could mean beginning psychotherapy or medication. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs that help to improve their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost brain's natural chemical messages, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a significant role in regulating attention and movements. Once the medication is taken regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy focusing 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. Some people suffering from ADHD also benefit from dietary changes, which can aid in improving their concentration and energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than get more info others, particularly when they belong to a minority group. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD appears to be. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or even denied treatment.
Finding affordable treatments and evaluations can be challenging, especially when you do not have insurance. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take finances into account. Additionally, these clinics are more likely to be enrolled in a range of different insurance plans and have residents and interns in training who can offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD often struggle to recognize the effects their conditions have on their lives. They often don't notice that their issues with planning, organising and completing tasks lead to difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to not be able to recognize the impact of their ADHD. They might develop strategies to cope that allow them to function below their capacity but they can lead to problems such as anxiety and depression or alcohol or drug abuse.
This story highlights the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS care, which makes it difficult for many to get the treatment they require. Others pay to access private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will sign a'shared care agreement' that allows them to go back to the NHS for follow up treatment following a private diagnosis of ADHD. This can lead to them having to continue paying for CBT therapy and medication on their own - or even more expensive specialist coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're working with has expertise working with adults with ADHD. You can look up their website or contact them to confirm if they have the expertise needed. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
Selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist is essential, since they will be the one 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 consider your personal preferences when choosing a therapist or psychiatrist. Some people may feel more comfortable with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or ethnicity. You may also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients who are kink-allied.