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 are willing to pay private companies for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing inaccurate assessments. This has led to debate and concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to visit an Psychiatrist for a thorough evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only person who can provide a definitive diagnosis for treatment. This is particularly important as a formal diagnosis is necessary to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone will show some of these traits occasionally, those with ADHD are likely to show them to a much more extensive degree than other people. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, unable to stay still or feel uneasy, and could also be a problem with planning and organisation. Impulsive behaviour can include making rash decisions, purchasing things without thinking about the consequences, or jumping into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD symptoms could include difficulty staying focused on tasks that require attention, avoiding deadlines, or having trouble 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 pursue an assessment. However, it's necessary in order to get the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to help you overcome these. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients report 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 test and an in-depth interview. During your assessment our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are extremely skilled at helping you to feel at ease and comfortable.
The Assessment
You'll need to go through an exhaustive assessment as an adult with ADHD before you can be diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It does not matter how high their position in the pecking order of healthcare professionals is as it comes down to their particular skills, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will employ structured interviews to gather as much information about your symptoms as they can and how they impact you and your relationships and how long they last. They will also ask about your family's mental health history and look over your medical history. The doctor will then take into consideration all the information gathered from various sources and determine an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the process of assessment, you will be asked to complete tests that are designed to evaluate your symptoms and assess their impact on your daily activities. You might be asked to fill out questionnaires about your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed exercises. They will also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from since many of these can present similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned as part of the assessment. This is done to gather more corroborative evidence of your ADHD symptoms and to see if they are impacting your relationships and work.
The specialist you meet with will be able give you a detailed report outlining the results of your evaluation and the options available to treat your condition, including the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for medications (where you pay only the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will explain their holistic treatment plan, as well as any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
The process of determining if you have ADHD isn't easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to conduct a private examination by a specialist doctor who can either confirm or deny a diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health issues that may explain some of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are caused by the medication you're taking.
After the assessment, your clinician will discuss the results and recommend a plan of treatment. Depending on your needs, this could involve beginning psychotherapy or medication. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that help to improve their symptoms. These medicines are believed to increase the amount of brain's natural chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which play a key part in regulating attention and movement. Many people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies to reduce stress and improve their ability to manage time and manage their tasks. Certain people with ADHD can also benefit from dietary modifications, which can improve their energy levels.
Some more info adults are more likely to struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, particularly when they belong to a minority group. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD looks. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed or even denied treatment.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be difficult, especially when your insurance doesn't cover it. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics which take into consideration financial concerns. Furthermore these clinics 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 with ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks lead to issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to not understand the effects of ADHD. They might develop strategies to cope that allow them to function at a level below their capacity however, these strategies can cause problems such as anxiety and depression as well as the use of alcohol or drugs.
This story demonstrates the need to seek expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to access NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Others pay to access private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will sign a'shared care agreement' which will allow them to return to the NHS for follow up treatment after receiving an individual diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more costly 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 looking up their website, or contacting them to make sure they have the knowledge you need. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that co-exist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the right psychiatrist or therapy, since they are the ones who will prescribe medication when 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.
When choosing a therapist, or psychiatrist, you must also consider your own personal preferences. For instance, some individuals will be more comfortable with an therapist who is their gender or culture. It is also possible to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with kink clients.