How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling with the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and willing to pay private companies for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided inaccurate assessments. This has led to controversy and concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
You will need to see a psychiatrist for a full evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. While some people get their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only professional who can provide you with an official diagnosis for treatment. This is especially important since a formal diagnosis is necessary in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to be able to access NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone is likely to exhibit certain traits occasionally, those with ADHD will often demonstrate these to a greater extent than others. Hyperactive behaviour includes fidgeting, inability to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can involve making rash decisions, purchasing things without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD can be characterized by difficulty staying focused or concentrating, procrastination, a lack of deadlines, or a lack of ability to think ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.
While many adults feel apprehensive about seeking a diagnosis, it is essential that you do so to get 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 provide strategies and tools to help you overcome these. Many of our patients tell us that once they've been diagnosed, their lives change for the better.
The assessment process will involve 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 years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel at ease.
Assessment
You'll need to go through an extensive assessment as an adult with ADHD before being diagnosed. The assessment must be carried out by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This can be a psychiatrist, psychologist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It does not matter how high their position in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, in relation to their specific skills, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing to collect as much information on your symptoms as is possible, including how they affect you and your relationships and how long. They will also go over your medical background and ask questions about family mental health history as well. The doctor will then review all the information collected from a variety of sources and determine an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the test, you will be required to take tests that are designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal the impact they have on your perform in your daily activities. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory, and inkblots, as well as tests such as puzzles or timed tasks. They'll also look at any other disorders you might have, since they may present symptoms that are similar to those here triggered by ADHD.
The assessment will also involve an interview with someone who knows you well - for example, an individual from your family, partner or a friend. This is to get further confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to determine how they impact your relationships or work.
The expert will be able give you a detailed account of the outcome of the examination, as well as the treatment options available. This may include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will go over their recommended holistic plan for your care and discuss any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to obtain an assessment in private by a specialist physician who will be able to confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with years of knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms, or if they are caused by medications.
After the evaluation is completed your doctor will then discuss the results and suggest the best treatment plan. Depending on the requirements of each patient you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs that help to improve their symptoms. These medicines are believed to increase the availability of the brain's natural chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in attention and movement. Most people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to lessen frustration and help them manage time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD might benefit from dietary changes that can boost their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, especially when they belong to an ethnic minority. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. The people in these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments isn't easy, especially when your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take the cost into consideration. Furthermore they are more likely to take part in a range of different insurance plans, and have residents and interns in training who are able to provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the effects of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their issues with planning, organising and completing tasks can cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are particularly likely to not be able to recognize the effects of their ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these can cause other issues like depression, anxiety and alcohol or drug abuse.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many to access the treatment they need. Some pay for private healthcare but are not guaranteed that their GPs will agree to an "shared care agreement" that will allow patients to return to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. They could be required 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 expertise working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by checking up their website, or by calling them to make sure that they have the experience you require. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is important to choose the right psychiatrist or therapy, because they will be the ones who prescribe medication when needed. 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.
When choosing a therapist, or psychiatrist, it is important to consider your own personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable working with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or ethnicity. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with clients with kinks.