How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private firms for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided unreliable assessments. This has led to concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to consult a psychiatrist for a full evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is especially important since the need for a formal diagnosis is essential to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to gain access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone exhibits certain traits occasionally but those with ADHD tend to exhibit them in a more extreme form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, being unable to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also be a problem with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior may include making rash decisions, purchasing things without thinking about the consequences, or jumping into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD symptoms could include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks, procrastinating, missing deadlines or finding it difficult 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 having an assessment, it is vital to seek one to receive the support and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD could bring relief and clarity in your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms, and find strategies and tools that will assist you in overcoming these. After being diagnosed, many of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves an interview about your symptoms and how they impact your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test and a detailed clinical interview. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel comfortable.
Assessment
As an adult suffering from ADHD is required undergo an exhaustive assessment before being diagnosed. This must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is an expert in ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their place in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, as it comes down to their particular capabilities, experience, and knowledge that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing to gather as much information about your symptoms as they can and how they impact your relationships with others and how long. They will also inquire about your family's mental health history and look over your medical history. The specialist will then consider the information gathered from a variety of sources and determine an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment during the assessment, you will be required to take tests that are that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also determine their impact on how you perform in your daily life. You could be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed exercises. They also take into account any other conditions you might be suffering from as many of these can present similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be interviewed as part of the evaluation. This is to get further corroborative evidence of your ADHD symptoms and to see if they are impacting your relationships or work.
The specialist you meet with will be able to give you a thorough report that outlines the findings of your examination and the available options to treat your condition, including the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for prescriptions (where you pay just the NHS prescription cost). The doctor will go over their holistic recommendations for your treatment and will discuss any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD might have difficulty obtaining a diagnosis. The first step is to get an assessment in private with a specialist doctor who can confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if there are other mental health conditions that could explain your symptoms, or whether they are caused by medications.
Once the assessment is completed, your clinician will discuss the results with you and suggest a treatment plan. Based on your specific needs, this may involve beginning psychotherapy or medication. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs which help improve their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost the brain's natural chemical messages like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a significant role in the development of attention and movement. Most people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults with ADHD may benefit private adhd assessment price from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies that reduce frustration and improve their ability manage time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary changes that can aid in improving their concentration and energy levels.
Certain adults might have a harder time getting a diagnosis for ADHD particularly when they are part of minorities. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD looks. People from these groups are also more likely to be denied or misdiagnosed a treatment due to this.
Finding affordable treatment and evaluations isn't easy, especially in the event that you do not have insurance. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics that take into the financial aspects. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans and have residents or interns in training who can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware that their issues with planning, organizing and completing tasks can cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to be unable to comprehend the effects of their ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function below their potential. However, these may result in other problems, such as depression, anxiety, or drug or alcohol addiction.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS care which makes it difficult for a lot of people to receive the treatment they need. Some pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will be willing to sign an "shared care agreement" which would permit them to return back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. They could be required to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Make sure to ask if the health professional you're considering working with has expertise working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by looking on their website or calling them to make sure that they have the expertise you need. You can also inquire whether they've treated comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
It is important to choose the best psychiatrist or therapy since they are the ones to prescribe medication if necessary. Look for a doctor who 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 choosing a therapist or psychiatrist, it is important to be aware of your personal preferences. Some people may feel more comfortable working with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or ethnicity. You might also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with kink-allied clients.