How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling with the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and are willing to pay private firms for their services.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics are handing out inaccurate assessments. This has caused debate and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You will need to see an experienced psychiatrist for a complete examination to be diagnosed with ADHD. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only person who can provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis for medication. This is essential because a valid diagnosis will be required to gain access to certain workplace protections, like flexible working, as well as to be able to access NHS medication.
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone is likely to exhibit some of these characteristics at times, people who suffer from ADHD are likely to show these traits to a more extensive degree than other people. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, being unable to remain still, or feeling restless, and may also have issues with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive choices, purchasing items without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD symptoms may include difficulty staying focused on work, procrastinating, missing 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.
Although many adults are nervous about getting an assessment, it is imperative to do so to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can also help you to understand your symptoms and find ways and methods to conquer them. After being diagnosed, many of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves an open discussion of your symptoms and how they affect your life, and the completion of the DIVA online test and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel at ease.
Assessment
As an adult suffering from ADHD you'll need to undergo an exhaustive assessment before being diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, since it is their unique abilities and knowledge that define them as specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information about your symptoms as possible and how they impact your relationships and you and how long. They will also review your medical history and ask about your family mental health history as well. The specialist will then review all the information gathered from various sources and formulate a diagnosis in accordance with the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the assessment process you will be asked to take tests that are designed to evaluate your symptoms and determine their impact on your daily life. You may be asked to fill out questionnaires regarding your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed exercises. They will also take into account any other conditions you may be suffering from, as many of these can present similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned during the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they impact your work or relationships.
The specialist you meet with will be able to provide you a thorough report that outlines the findings of your examination and the options available for treatment, including a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you pay just the NHS prescription cost). The doctor will go over their holistic recommendations for your care and discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD might have a difficult time getting the diagnosis. The first step is to conduct a private evaluation by a specialist doctor who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor can also tell you if there are any other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms or whether they are caused by medication.
After the assessment, your clinician will discuss the results and suggest an approach to treatment. Depending on the needs of each individual you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD receive stimulant medications to ease their symptoms. These medicines are believed to increase the amount of brain's natural chemical messengers, like norepinephrine and dopamine, which play a key role in the development of attention and movement. Most people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses primarily on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This could include strategies that reduce frustration and improve their ability manage time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary modifications that improve their energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, particularly if they are from a minority group. Certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD looks. These groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be a challenge, particularly in the event that your insurance does not cover it. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take the cost into consideration. These clinics are also more likely to accept a variety of insurance plans and have interns or residents in training that can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD are often unable to comprehend the effects their conditions have on their lives. They don't always realize the fact that their struggles in organising, planning and completing tasks cause problems at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are particularly likely to fail to understand the effects of their ADHD. They might develop strategies to cope that allow them to function at a level below their potential but they can cause problems such as depression and anxiety, or alcohol or drug abuse.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are unable to get NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private healthcare, but there is no assurance that their doctor will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' which will allow patients to return to the NHS for follow up treatment after receiving an individual diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
Make sure to ask if the health professional you're working with has expertise working with adults with ADHD. You can visit their website or contact them to confirm they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
private adhd assessments is crucial to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy because they will be the ones who will prescribe medication if needed. Find a doctor who has 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 think about your personal preferences when choosing a psychiatrist or therapist. Some people may feel more comfortable working with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with clients with kinks.