How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and will pay private providers to provide them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing inaccurate assessments. This has sparked concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to consult an experienced psychiatrist for a complete evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a definitive diagnosis for medication. This is essential because a valid diagnosis will be required to gain access to certain workplace protections, including flexible working, as well as to get access to NHS medications.
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone will show certain traits occasionally, those who suffer from ADHD will often demonstrate these traits to a greater extent than others. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, inability to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also include trouble with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can include reckless decisions, buying items without considering the implications, or rushing to situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD can be identified by a lack of focus or concentrating, procrastination, a lack of deadlines, or a lack of ability to plan 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 an ADHD diagnosis, it's essential that you do so to get the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can help you comprehend the signs and symptoms, and help you find strategies and tools that will assist you in overcoming these. Many of our patients tell us that after being diagnosed, their lives are changed to the better.
The assessment process involves a conversation about your symptoms and how they affect your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test, and an extensive interview with a clinical psychologist. In your assessment, our psychiatrists will have extensive experience in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and are extremely adept at helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
Assessment
As an adult with ADHD you'll need to go through a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, because it is their specific abilities and knowledge that define them as an expert.
A specialist will use structured interviewing to collect as much information on your symptoms 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 examine your medical history. The doctor will then review all the information collected from various sources and make a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the process of assessment you will be required to complete tests that are designed to assess your symptoms and assess their impact on your daily life. You could be asked to fill out questionnaires regarding your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests such as puzzles or timed tasks. They will also consider any other comorbid disorders that you might have, since they may present symptoms similar to those associated ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned as part of the assessment. This is in order to obtain more evidence to support your ADHD symptoms and to see whether they affect your relationships or work.
The person you speak to will be able to provide you a thorough report that outlines the findings of your examination and the options available for treatment, such as an agreement to share care with your GP for prescriptions (where you only pay the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will explain their here holistic recommendations for your care and discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to conduct a private examination by a specialist doctor who will confirm or deny the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health issues that might cause your symptoms, or if the symptoms are related to the medication you are on.
After the evaluation the doctor will go over the results and recommend an approach to treatment. Based on the needs of each individual, you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medication which help improve their symptoms. These drugs are believed to increase the supply of the brain's chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play an important part in regulating attention and movement. The majority of people notice that their symptoms get better when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from a program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This could also include strategies to lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Some people with ADHD can also benefit from dietary changes, which can aid in improving their energy levels and focus.
Certain adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, especially when they belong to the minority group. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or even not treated.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be a challenge, particularly when your insurance doesn't cover it. Hospital-based clinics often offer specialized ADHD clinics that take consideration financial concerns. Additionally these clinics are more likely to participate 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 understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware that their problems with organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause problems at work or relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to not be able to recognize the impact of their ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function below their potential. However, these could result in other problems like anxiety, depression or alcohol or drug addiction.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many to get the treatment they need. Some people pay for private healthcare but they aren't sure if their GPs will agree to a "shared care agreement" which would permit them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up care after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Always ensure that any health professional you're considering working with has a good track record of working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can do this by checking up their website, or calling them to confirm that they have the expertise you require. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
It is important to choose the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy since they are the ones to prescribe medication if needed. Find a doctor with 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.
You should also consider your personal preferences when choosing a psychiatrist or therapist. Some people may be more comfortable with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience working with kink clients.