How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private providers to give them with.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot of these private clinics are providing unreliable assessments. This has sparked controversy and concern over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a thorough exam with a psychiatrist. Although some people 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 medication. This is crucial as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also gain access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone has certain characteristics at times however, those with ADHD tend to exhibit these characteristics in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, being unable to stay still or feel restless, and may also include trouble with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior can include reckless choices, purchasing items without considering the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms may include difficulty staying focused on tasks and putting off 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 get an assessment. However, this is important to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD could bring relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you understand the symptoms and provide ways and methods to conquer them. Many of our patients tell us that once they've been diagnosed, their lives alter for the better.
The assessment process will involve an interview about your symptoms and how they impact your life, taking the DIVA online test, and an in-depth interview with a clinical psychologist. During your assessment, our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and are highly adept at helping you feel at ease and comfortable.
The Assessment
As an adult suffering from ADHD is required undergo an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. This needs to be performed by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist within ADHD. This can be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It does not matter where they're in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, since it is their specific skills and knowledge that defines them as an expert.
A doctor will conduct a structured interview to gather the most information possible about your symptoms, how they impact your relationships and life, and how long you have been experiencing them for. They will also go over your medical history and ask about your the mental health history of your family as well. The specialist will then consider the information gathered from a variety of sources and make a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the process of assessment you will be required to take tests that are designed to assess your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily life. These may include questionnaires about your symptoms, memory, and inkblots as well as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They will also consider any other comorbid disorders that you may have, as many of them can present symptoms similar to those associated ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed as part of the evaluation. This is to get further evidence to support your ADHD symptoms and to see if they are impacting your relationships and work.
The specialist will be able to provide a full explanation of the findings of the examination, as well as 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 explain their holistic plan as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't easy for adults with the condition. The first step is a private examination by a specialist doctor who can either confirm or deny a diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor can also tell you if there are any other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms or if they are caused by medication.
After the evaluation your doctor will review the results and suggest an approach to treatment. Depending on your requirements, this could mean the use of psychotherapy or medications. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs that help to improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase 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 improve quickly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include strategies that can reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary changes that can help to improve their energy levels and concentration.
Certain adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, especially when they belong to an ethnic minority. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD is like. The people in these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment can be a challenge, particularly when your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics have specialized ADHD clinics that take finances into account. Furthermore, these clinics are more likely to participate in a variety of insurance plans, and have interns and residents in training who can provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware of the fact that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks can lead to difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to be unaware of the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that enable them to function at a level lower than their capabilities, but these can lead to problems such as anxiety and depression or the use of alcohol or drugs.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. adhd assessment private are unable to get NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will agree to the terms of a "shared care agreement" that will allow them to return back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Always ensure that any health professional you're considering working with has a good track of experience working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can look up their website or contact them to confirm they have the expertise needed. You can also ask if they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Finding the right therapist or psychiatrist is important, because 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.
It is also important to consider your personal preferences when selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist. Some people may be more comfortable with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with clients with kinks.