How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling with the burden of long NHS 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 unreliable assessments. This has caused concerns and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to go through a complete examination with psychiatrist. Although some people have their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only person who can give you an official diagnosis that is recognized for treatment. This is crucial as a formal diagnosis is necessary in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to gain access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, as well as inattention are the three main signs of ADHD. While everyone has certain characteristics at times but those with ADHD typically exhibit them in a more extreme form. Hyperactivity can manifest as the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It could also be accompanied by issues with planning and organizing. Insane behavior may include making rash choices, purchasing items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty staying focused on tasks, procrastinating, missing deadlines or finding it difficult 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 to get a diagnosis. However, this is essential to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you to understand the symptoms and provide strategies and tools to overcome them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients claim that their lives have changed for the better.
The process of assessment involves a discussion about your symptoms and their impact on your life, the taking of the DIVA online exam and an in-depth interview. During your assessment, our psychiatrists have years of experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are extremely adept at helping you feel at ease and comfortable.
The Assessment
You will need to undergo an exhaustive assessment as an adult with ADHD before you can be diagnosed. This assessment must be performed by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychiatrist, psychologist or specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their place in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, as it comes down to their particular capabilities, experience, and knowledge that make them a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviews to collect as much information about your symptoms as possible as they can, including how they affect your relationships and you and how long they last. They will also ask about your family's history of mental health and look over your medical history. The specialist will then consider the information gathered from a variety of sources and determine an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment you will be asked 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 life. You may be asked to answer questions regarding your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests such as puzzles or timed activities. They'll also look at any other comorbid disorders that you may have, as they may present symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned during the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they affect your work and relationships.
The specialist will be able to provide a full explanation of the outcome of the evaluation, as well as the options available for treatment. This could include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will present their holistic plan and any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD may have difficulty getting a diagnosis. The first step is to conduct a private examination by a specialist doctor, who can either confirm or deny a diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. The doctor will also be able tell you if you have other mental health issues that may be the cause of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are caused by the medications you're taking.
After the evaluation the doctor will go over the results and recommend an approach to treatment. Based on the specific requirements of each person, you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs that aid in reducing their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost brain's chemical signals, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a significant role in the development of attention and movement. When the medication is used regularly, most people find their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from therapy focusing on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can also include practical strategies to reduce their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Some people suffering from ADHD can benefit from dietary changes that improve their energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, particularly in the case of an ethnic minority. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. The people in these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied a treatment due to this.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments isn't easy, especially if you do not have insurance. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take financial concerns into account. Furthermore 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 offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD often struggle to recognize the effects their conditions have on their lives. They are often unaware the fact that their struggles in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to not understand the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function at a level lower than their capabilities, but these could lead to issues such as depression and anxiety, or addiction to alcohol or drugs.
This article highlights the need for seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS care, which makes it difficult for many people to get the treatment they need. Some people pay for private health care but they aren't sure if their doctors will sign an "shared care agreement" that would allow patients to return to the NHS for follow-up treatment following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. They could be required to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
Make sure to ask if the health professional you're thinking of working with has experience working with adults with ADHD. You can visit their website or phone number to confirm if they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also ask whether they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is essential, since they are the ones who will prescribe your medication in the event of need. Choose a doctor that has completed 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.
When choosing a therapist or psychiatrist, you should also be aware of your personal preferences. For example, some people are more comfortable with someone who is their gender or cultural. adult adhd private assessment is also possible to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with kink clients.