How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is unable to diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to receive answers and will pay private providers to give them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided inaccurate assessments. This has led to 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 give a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is crucial as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential to gain 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 fall into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone will show some of these characteristics at times, people with ADHD are likely to show them to a much greater extent than others. Hyperactive behavior can include the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It can also indicate issues with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior can include reckless choices, purchasing items without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD is characterized by difficulty staying focused, procrastination, missing deadlines or an inability ability to think 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 a diagnosis. However, this is essential to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to assist you in overcoming these. Many of our patients report that after being diagnosed, their lives alter to the better.
The assessment process will involve an interview about your symptoms and how they affect your life, completing the DIVA online test, and an extensive clinical interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel comfortable.
The Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD you'll need to go through an exhaustive assessment before being diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their rank in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is when it comes to their particular abilities, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing techniques to gather as much information about your symptoms as is possible as they can, including how they affect your relationships and you, and for how long. They will also inquire about the mental health history of your family members and examine your medical history. The doctor will then go over all the information collected from a variety sources and determine a diagnosis in accordance with the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the examination you will be asked to take tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also determine the impact of your symptoms on how you perform in your daily activities. You could be asked to complete questionnaires regarding your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests such as puzzles or timed tasks. They also consider any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from, as they may have similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed as part of the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine if they affect your work and relationships.
The expert will give you a detailed account of the findings of the assessment, and the options available for treatment. This could include a shared-care agreement 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 might have a difficult time getting an assessment. The first step is to conduct a private assessment by a specialist doctor, who can confirm or deny the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with years of knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that may cause your symptoms, or if the symptoms are caused by the medications you're taking.
After the examination, your clinician will discuss the results and recommend the best treatment plan. Depending on the requirements of each patient, you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that aid in reducing their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost brain's chemical signals, like dopamine and norepinephrine, which play an important role in the development of attention and movement. When the medication is used regularly, most people find their symptoms improve rapidly and effectively.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This can include strategies that can lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and tasks. Some people with ADHD can also benefit from diet changes that improve their energy levels.
Certain adults might be more difficult to get a diagnosis for ADHD particularly those who belong to minorities. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed or even denied treatment.
Finding affordable treatments and evaluations can be a challenge, particularly when you do not have insurance. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics that take into the financial aspects. Additionally they are more likely to participate in a variety of insurance plans, and have residents and interns in training that can provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People with ADHD are often unable to comprehend the impact their condition has on their lives. They don't always realize that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks cause problems at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to overlook the impact of ADHD. They may develop strategies for coping that allow them to function below their potential but they could lead to issues such as anxiety and depression, or alcohol or drug abuse.
This story demonstrates the need for seeking out expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are struggling to access NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Some people pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their doctors will sign a "shared care agreement" that will allow them to go back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Make sure to ask if the health professional you're thinking of working with has experience working with adults who have ADHD. You can do this by checking at their website or by calling them to confirm that they have the expertise you require. You can also inquire if they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
It is important to choose the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones to prescribe medication when needed. Choose a doctor that 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.
You should also think about your personal preferences when selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist. private adhd assessment uk may be more comfortable with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or culture. It is also possible to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with kink-allied clients.