How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to get answers and are willing to pay private providers to give them.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics are handing out inaccurate assessments. This has caused concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to visit an experienced psychiatrist for a complete assessment in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only person who can give a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is important because a formal diagnosis is required to be able to use certain workplace protections, such as flexible working, and to access NHS medication.
Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three main symptoms of ADHD. While everyone is likely to exhibit certain traits occasionally, those with ADHD are likely to show these to a greater extent than others. Hyperactive behavior can include the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It may also include problems with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior can include reckless choices, purchasing items without considering the implications, or rushing to situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms may include difficulty staying focused on work 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.
Although many adults are nervous about having a diagnosis, it is essential that you do so to receive the support and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms and provide strategies and tools that will help you overcome them. Many of our patients say that after being diagnosed, their lives change for the better.
The process of assessment involves an open discussion of your symptoms and how they impact your life, the completion of the DIVA online test and an extensive interview. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel relaxed.
The Assessment
You'll have to undergo an extensive assessment as an adult with ADHD before you can be diagnosed. The assessment must be carried out by medical professionals who are a specialist within ADHD. This can be a specialist psychologist, nurse or psychiatrist (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It does not matter what their rank in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is as it comes down to their particular capabilities, experience, and knowledge that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will use an organized interview to collect as much information as is possible about your symptoms, how they impact your life and relationships and the length of time you've been suffering from them for. They will also review your medical history and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The specialist will then review all the information gathered from a variety sources and determine a diagnosis in accordance with the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the process of assessment you will be required to complete tests designed to assess your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily life. You could be asked to fill out questionnaires regarding your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests such as puzzles or timed tasks. They'll also take into consideration any other disorders you might be suffering from, as they may present symptoms that are similar to those triggered by ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed as part of the assessment. This is to get further evidence to support your ADHD symptoms and to determine how they impact your relationships and work.
The specialist will be able to provide a full explanation of the outcome of the evaluation, as well as the options available for treatment. This could include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic recommendations for your treatment and will discuss any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to conduct a private assessment by a specialist doctor, who will confirm or refuse a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health issues that might explain some of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are related to the medication you are on.
After the assessment your doctor will review the results and suggest the best treatment plan. Based on your specific needs, this could involve starting medication or psychotherapy. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs which help improve their symptoms. These medicines are believed to increase the supply of the brain's chemical messengers, like norepinephrine and dopamine, which play a key role in the development of attention and movement. Many people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to reduce stress and improve their ability manage time and tasks. Some people with ADHD also benefit from diet changes that can improve their energy levels and focus.
Certain adults might be more difficult to get an diagnosis for ADHD, especially if they belong to a minority group. Certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. These people are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed or even denied treatment.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatments can be difficult, especially if your insurance doesn't cover it. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics that take consideration financial concerns. Additionally these clinics are more likely to participate in a range of different insurance plans and have residents and interns in training who can provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People with ADHD often struggle to recognize the impact here their condition has on their lives. They aren't aware that their problems with organizing, planning and completing tasks can lead to problems at work or relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to overlook the impact of ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform less than their potential. However, these can result in other problems, such as depression, anxiety and alcohol or drug abuse.
This article highlights the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment, which makes it difficult for many to get the treatment they need. Others pay to access private healthcare, but have no assurance that their doctor will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' that allows them to return to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after receiving a private diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private therapy, medication, or even more expensive coaching services.
Always verify that the health professional you're thinking of working with has experience working with adults who have ADHD. You can check their website or contact them to confirm if they have the experience and expertise required. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that co-exist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones to prescribe medication when needed. Choose a doctor that has completed 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. For example, some people will be more comfortable with an therapist who is their gender or culture. It is also possible to work someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with kink clients.