How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is unable to diagnose ADHD in many patients because of the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to get answers and are willing to pay private companies to provide them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing unreliable assessments. This has sparked some controversy and raised concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full examination by psychiatrist. Although some people have their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only person who can provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis for treatment. This is particularly important as a formal diagnosis is necessary in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to be able to access NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by psychiatrists).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention are the three main symptoms of ADHD. While everyone displays some of these characteristics at times however, those with ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It could also be accompanied by problems with planning and organization. Insane behavior may include making rash purchases without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper preparation. private adhd assessments may include difficulty staying focused on work that require attention, avoiding 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 a diagnosis. But, it is necessary in order to get the support and treatment that you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can also help you understand the symptoms and provide strategies and tools to overcome them. Many of our patients tell us that once they have been diagnosed, their lives alter for the better.
The assessment process will involve an open discussion about your symptoms and how they affect your life, taking the DIVA online test, and an extensive interview with a clinical psychologist. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel at ease.
The Assessment
As an adult with ADHD, you will need to undergo a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. This needs to be performed by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist within ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, as it is their unique skills and knowledge that defines them as a specialist.
A specialist will employ structured interviews to collect as much information about your symptoms as is possible as they can, including how they affect your relationships and you, and for how long. They will also ask about your family's mental health history and look over your medical history. The doctor will then review all the information gathered from a variety of sources before determining an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the process of assessment, you will be asked to take tests that are designed to measure your symptoms and determine their impact on your daily functioning. These may include questionnaires about your symptoms, memory, and inkblots as well as timed tasks or puzzles. They also take into account any other conditions you may be suffering from, as they may have similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be interviewed during the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they impact your work or relationships.
private adhd assessment will be able to provide you with a thorough 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 pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic plan and any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to obtain an assessment in private with a specialist doctor who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor will also inform you if you have other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms, or whether they are caused by medication.
Once the test is complete the doctor will review your results and recommend the best treatment plan. Based on the specific needs of each individual you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to alleviate their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase the supply of the brain's natural chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which play a key role in attention and movement. The majority of people notice that their symptoms get better when they take the medication regularly.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can include strategies that can lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Certain people with ADHD might benefit from dietary changes that improve their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, particularly when they belong to an ethnic minority. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD is like. People from these groups are also more likely to be denied or misdiagnosed a treatment because of this.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be difficult, especially in the event that your insurance does not cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics have specialized ADHD clinics that take finances into consideration. private adhd assessment cost are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans and have interns or residents in training who offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD are often unable to comprehend the impact their conditions have on their lives. They are often unaware the fact that their struggles with planning, organising and completing tasks lead to issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to be unaware of the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function below their potential. However, these can result in other problems like depression, anxiety, or drug or alcohol abuse.
This story highlights the need to seek expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to get NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will agree to a 'shared care agreement' which will allow them to go back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after receiving a private diagnosis of ADHD. They could be required to continue paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
Always ensure that any health professional you are considering working with has a positive track experience working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by checking up their website, or calling them to make sure that they have the experience you require. You can also inquire whether they have dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the best psychiatrist or therapy because they will be the ones who prescribe medication if needed. Look for a doctor who has completed specialized training for adults with 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 think about your personal preferences when selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist. For example, some people will be more comfortable with someone who is their gender or ethnicity. You may also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients who are kink-allied.