How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling with the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private companies for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided unreliable assessments. This has caused concerns and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to undergo a thorough assessment with psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is especially important since a formal diagnosis is necessary for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also be able to access NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, as well as inattention are the three most common signs of ADHD. While everyone exhibits some of these characteristics occasionally, those with ADHD tend to display these to a more severe degree than others. Hyperactivity can manifest as fidgeting or being restless. It may also include problems with planning and organizing. Impulsive behaviour can include making reckless decisions, buying things without thinking about the consequences, or jumping into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms can include trouble keeping a focus 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 hesitant about getting an ADHD diagnosis, it's vital to seek one to get the support 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 find strategies and tools to assist you in overcoming them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients claim that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process consists of an examination of your symptoms and their impact on your life, and the completion of the DIVA online exam and a detailed interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel comfortable.
The Assessment
You will need to undergo an extensive assessment as an adult with ADHD before you can be diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychiatrist, psychologist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, because it is their unique capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing to collect as much information about your symptoms as is possible and how they impact your relationships with others, and for how long. They will also inquire about your family's history of mental health and look over your medical history. The doctor will then go over all the information gathered from a variety sources and make a diagnose according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the process of assessment you will be asked to take tests that are designed to measure your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily life. You could be asked to answer questions about your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests such as puzzles or timed activities. They will also consider any other comorbid disorders that you may have, as many of them can present symptoms that are similar to those triggered by ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with a person who knows you well, like someone from your family, a partner or a friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they impact your work and relationships.
The person you speak to will be able to provide you a thorough report that outlines the outcome of your assessment and what options are available for treatment, such as an agreement to share care with your GP for medications (where you pay only the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will discuss their recommended holistic plan for your care and will go over any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD might have difficulty obtaining an assessment. The first step is to get a private assessment by a specialist physician who will be able to confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that may be the cause of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are related to the medications you're taking.
Once the assessment is completed, your clinician will discuss the results and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Based on your needs, this may involve the use of psychotherapy or medications. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to help improve 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. Once the medication is taken frequently, many people notice that their symptoms get better quickly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy focusing on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies that reduce frustration and improve their ability to manage time and tasks. Some people with ADHD also benefit from dietary changes that can help to improve their energy levels and concentration.
Certain adults are more likely to struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, especially when they belong to an ethnic minority. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD is like. The people in these groups are also more likely to be denied or misdiagnosed a treatment because of this.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment can be a challenge, particularly in the event that your insurance does not cover it. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics that take into account finances. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans and have residents or interns in training who can provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks 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 enable them to function lower than their capabilities however, these strategies could lead to issues such as anxiety and depression as well as the use of alcohol or drugs.
This story 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 people to access the treatment they need. Some pay for private healthcare, but are not guaranteed that their doctors will sign the terms of a "shared care agreement" that would allow patients to return to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private therapy, medication, or even more expensive coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're thinking of working with has worked with adults with ADHD. You can check their website or call them to confirm they have the experience and expertise required. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the right psychiatrist or therapy, as they will be the ones who will prescribe medication when needed. Find adhd assessment for adults private 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 psychiatrist or therapist. For instance, some people are more comfortable with someone who is their gender or culture. You might also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients with kinks.