How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling under the pressure of a sluggish 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 concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
adhd private assessment
To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full examination with a psychiatrist. Although some people have their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only professional who can give you a formally recognised diagnosis for treatment. This is crucial as an official diagnosis is required for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to get access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone exhibits some of these traits occasionally, those who suffer from ADHD will often demonstrate them to a much more extensive degree than other people. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting or being restless. It could also be accompanied by problems with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior may include making rash decisions, purchasing things without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD symptoms may include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks and putting off deadlines, or having difficulty 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 seek an assessment. However, this is essential to receive the support and treatment that you require. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you understand your symptoms and help you find strategies and tools to deal with them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.
The process of assessment will include an interview about your symptoms and how they affect your life, taking the DIVA online test and a detailed clinical interview. During your examination our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and are extremely skilled at helping you to feel relaxed and at ease.
Assessment
As an adult with ADHD you'll need to undergo a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a specialist psychologist, nurse or psychiatrist (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It does not matter how high their position in the pecking order of healthcare professionals is as it comes down to their specific capabilities, experience, and knowledge that make them a specialist.
A specialist will employ structured interviewing to gather as much information about your symptoms as is possible and how they impact your relationships with others, and for how long. They will also inquire about your family's history of mental health and examine your medical history. The doctor will then review all the information gathered from a variety of sources and make an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the test, you will be required to take tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact they have on your perform in your daily life. These may include questionnaires about your symptoms, memory, and inkblots, as well as tests such as timed tasks or puzzles. They will also consider any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from, as they may have similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned as part of the evaluation. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine whether they impact your work or relationships.
The specialist you meet with will be able to provide you a detailed report outlining the outcome of your assessment and the options available to treat your condition, including the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for prescriptions (where you only pay the NHS prescription cost). The doctor will explain their holistic plan and any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Being diagnosed with ADHD is not easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to get an individual assessment with a specialist doctor who will be able to confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also inform you if you have other mental health conditions that might explain your symptoms, or if they are caused by medication.
After the evaluation is completed the doctor will review the results and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Based on your specific requirements, this could mean the use of psychotherapy or medications. Most people with ADHD receive stimulant medications to help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase brain's chemical signals, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in the development of attention and movement. When the medication is used regularly, the majority of people notice that their symptoms get better quickly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This could also include strategies to lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Some people suffering from ADHD also benefit from dietary changes, which can help to improve their concentration and energy levels.
Certain adults might be more difficult to get the diagnosis of ADHD in particular when they are part of minorities. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD looks like. The people in these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied a treatment because of this.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics have specialized ADHD clinics that take financial concerns into consideration. Additionally they are more likely to be enrolled in a range of different insurance plans and have interns and residents in training who are able to provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to understand the impact their conditions have on their lives. They don't always realize that their difficulties with planning, organising and completing tasks can cause issues 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 less than their potential. However, these could lead to other problems, such as anxiety, depression, or drug or alcohol abuse.
This story demonstrates the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are struggling to access NHS care because of logjammed waiting lists. Some people pay for private healthcare, but are not guaranteed that their GPs will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement" that would allow them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
It is important to ensure that any health professional you're thinking of working with has a solid track of experience working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can look up their website or call them to confirm they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also check whether they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is essential to select the best psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones who prescribe medication when needed. Find a doctor with special 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 think about your personal preferences when selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist. For instance, some individuals will be more comfortable with an therapist who is their gender or cultural. It is also possible to work someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with clients with kinks.