How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling under the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to receive answers and are willing to pay private companies to provide them.
However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics provide unreliable assessments. This has led to controversy and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to go through a complete exam with a psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only one who can give you a formally recognised diagnosis for medication. This is especially important since an official diagnosis is required in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to be able to access NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three primary symptoms of ADHD. While everyone exhibits some of these characteristics occasionally, those who suffer from ADHD are likely to show them to a much greater extent than others. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, unable to sit still or feeling restless, and may also have issues with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior can involve making reckless decisions, buying things without thinking about the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD can be characterized by difficulty staying focused and avoiding deadlines, procrastination, 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.
Many adults are reluctant to get a diagnosis. However, it's essential to receive the support and treatment that you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can also help you understand the symptoms and provide ways and methods to conquer them. Many of our patients report that once they've been diagnosed, their lives are changed to the better.
The assessment process involves a conversation about your symptoms and how they affect your life, taking the DIVA online test, and a detailed interview with a clinical psychologist. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel comfortable.
Assessment
You'll need to go through a thorough assessment as an adult with ADHD before you can be diagnosed. This must be performed by a healthcare professional who is a specialist within ADHD. This could be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses cannot prescribe medication). It doesn't matter where they are in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, as it is their particular capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as an expert.
A specialist will utilize structured interviewing to gather as much information about your symptoms as they can and how they impact you and your relationships, and for how long. They will also review your medical history and ask questions about the mental health history of your family as well. The doctor will then review the information gathered from various sources and determine an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the examination, you will be required to take tests that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact they have on your perform in your daily activities. You may be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests such as puzzles or timed activities. They also consider any other conditions here you may be suffering from since many of these can present similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with someone who knows you well, like someone from your family, a partner or a friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine if they affect your work and relationships.
The specialist will be able to give you a detailed account of the results of the examination, as well as the treatment options available. This may include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic recommendations for your treatment and will discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD may have difficulty getting a diagnosis. The first step is to get a private assessment by a specialist physician who will be able to confirm or deny the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists who have extensive experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if there are any other mental health issues that could cause your symptoms or if they are caused by medication.
After the examination the doctor will go over the results and suggest the best treatment plan. Based on the needs of each individual you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulants to help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase the availability of the brain's natural chemical messengers, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play an important role in the development of attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, most people find their symptoms improve quickly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses primarily on improving their relationships and self-esteem. These can include strategies that reduce frustration and help them manage time and manage their tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD also benefit from diet changes that can improve their energy levels and focus.
Some adults may have a difficult time obtaining a diagnosis for ADHD in particular those who belong to a minority group. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD looks. These groups are also more likely to be denied or misdiagnosed a treatment because of this.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatments isn't easy, especially in the event that your insurance does not cover it. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics which take into consideration financial concerns. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans, and have interns or residents in training that can provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They don't realize that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to fail to understand the impact of their ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function below their potential. However, these could cause other issues like anxiety, depression, or drug or alcohol abuse.
This story highlights the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Many people are unable to get NHS care because of logjammed waiting lists. Some people pay for private healthcare, but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will be willing to sign the terms of a "shared care agreement" that would allow them to return back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're considering working with has worked with adults who have ADHD. You can do this by checking up their website, or by calling them to make sure they have the knowledge you require. You can also inquire whether they have dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is essential, since they will be the one who will prescribe your medication in the event of need. 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.
When choosing a therapist, or psychiatrist, you should also consider your own personal preferences. Some people might be more comfortable working with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or cultural. It is also possible to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with kink clients.