How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling with the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private companies to provide them.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot private clinics are handing out unreliable assessments. This has led to concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD to be diagnosed, you'll need to go through a complete assessment by a psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only professional who can provide you with an official diagnosis that is recognized for medication. This is crucial as a formal diagnosis is necessary to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone has certain traits on occasion however, those with ADHD typically exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, unable to stay still or feel anxious, and can also include trouble with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior may include making decisions that are reckless, buying items without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD is 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.
Although many adults are nervous about having a diagnosis, it is essential that you do so to get the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you understand your symptoms, and find strategies and tools that will assist you in overcoming them. Many of our patients say that once they have been diagnosed, their lives alter to the better.
The assessment process consists of a discussion about your symptoms and how they affect your life, the taking of the DIVA online test and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel relaxed.
The Assessment
You'll need to go through an extensive examination as an adult suffering from ADHD before you can be diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It does not matter where they're in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, because it is their specific capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as an expert.
A specialist will utilize structured interviews 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 go over your medical history and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The specialist will then consider all the information gathered from a variety of sources and determine an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the test you will be asked to complete tests that will 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 about your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests like puzzles or timed exercises. They will also consider any other conditions you might 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 evaluation. This is in order to obtain more confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they affect your relationships or work.
The person you speak to will be able to provide you a detailed report outlining the findings of your examination and the available options for treatment, such as the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for medications (where you only pay the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will explain their recommended holistic plan for your care and discuss any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have difficulty obtaining the diagnosis. The first step is to obtain an assessment in private by a specialist physician who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if there are other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms or whether they are caused by medications.
After the examination the doctor will go over the results and recommend an approach to treatment. Based on your specific needs, this may involve starting medication or psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD take stimulant medication to alleviate their symptoms. These medicines are believed to increase the availability of the brain's natural chemical messengers such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial part in regulating attention and movement. Many people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This can include strategies that can reduce their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and tasks. Certain people with ADHD also benefit from dietary modifications, which can help to improve their energy levels and concentration.
Certain adults might have a harder time getting an diagnosis for ADHD particularly when they are part of an ethnic minority. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD looks. The people in these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be challenging, especially in the event that you do not have insurance. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics that take the financial aspects. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans and have interns or residents in training that can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD often struggle to recognize the impact their condition has on their lives. They don't always realize the fact that their struggles with planning, organising and completing tasks cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are particularly likely to be unable to comprehend the effects of their ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that enable them to function below their potential, but these can cause problems like anxiety and depression or addiction to alcohol or drugs.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many to access the treatment they need. Some people pay for private healthcare but are not guaranteed that their GPs will agree to the terms of a "shared care agreement" that will allow them to return back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. They could be required to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive read more coaching services.
It is important to ensure that any health professional you're considering working with has a good track of experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. You can check their website or contact them to confirm that they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also inquire whether they've dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
It is essential to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy since they are the ones to prescribe medication when needed. Find a doctor who 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.
You should also think about your personal preferences when selecting a psychiatrist or therapist. For example, some people prefer a psychiatrist who is of their gender or culture. You might also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with clients with kinks.