How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in many patients due to the long 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 inaccurate assessments. This has caused debate and concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full exam by a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only person 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 get access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by psychiatrists).
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone will show certain traits at times, people who suffer from ADHD tend to display these traits to a more severe degree than others. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, unable to sit still or feeling anxious, and can also have issues with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive decisions, buying items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper preparation. Inattentive ADD symptoms may include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks, procrastinating, missing 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 hesitant about having an ADHD diagnosis, it's essential that you do so to receive the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It can help you understand the signs and symptoms, and help you find strategies and tools to aid you in conquering these. Many of our patients report that after being diagnosed, their lives are changed to the better.
The process of assessment will include an open discussion 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 highly skilled to make you feel at ease.
Assessment
You will need to undergo an extensive evaluation as an adult suffering from ADHD before being diagnosed. This must be carried out by medical professionals who are a specialist in ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist 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 particular capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as specialist.
A doctor will conduct an organized interview to gather as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships and how long you have been experiencing them for. They will also review your medical history and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. 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 process you will be asked to complete tests that are designed to look these up measure your symptoms and assess the impact they have on your daily life. You may be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed exercises. They'll also look at any other disorders you may have, as many of them can present symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with someone who knows you well - such as a family member, partner or a close friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine whether they impact your work or relationships.
The expert will give you a detailed account of the outcome of the examination, as well as the treatment options available. This could include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their recommended holistic plan for your treatment and adhd assessment psychiatrist will discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to get a private assessment by a specialist physician who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if there are other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms or the cause of your symptoms is medication.
After the examination the doctor will go over the results and suggest an approach to treatment. Depending on the requirements of each more.. patient you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medication that help to improve their symptoms. These medicines are believed to increase the amount of brain's chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play an important role in attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, most people find their symptoms improve rapidly and effectively.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from a program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This can include practical strategies to reduce stress and help them manage time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary changes that can help to improve their concentration and energy levels.
Some adults may have a difficult time obtaining an diagnosis for ADHD particularly those who belong to a minority group. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or to be denied treatment.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments isn't easy, especially if your insurance doesn't cover it. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics that take into the financial aspects. Additionally they are more likely to take part in a variety of insurance plans and have residents and interns in training that can provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People with ADHD often struggle to recognize the impact their conditions have on their lives. They aren't aware that their difficulties with planning, organizing and completing tasks can cause problems at work or relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to not understand the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that enable them to perform below other their potential. However, these could cause other issues like anxiety, depression and alcohol or drug addiction.
This story highlights the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment, which makes it difficult for many people to receive the treatment they require. Others pay to access private healthcare, but there is no assurance that their physician will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' which will allow them to go back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after receiving an individual diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
Make sure to ask if the health professional you're considering working with has worked with adults who have ADHD. You can check this by looking on their website or contacting them to make sure they have the knowledge you need. You can click to investigate also ask whether they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones who will prescribe medication if necessary. Find a doctor with 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.
It is also important to consider your personal preferences when choosing the right therapist or psychiatrist. Some people may be more comfortable with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with kink clients.