How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in many patients because of the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to get answers and will pay private companies to provide them.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics are providing unreliable health 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 a psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only one who can provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis for treatment. This is essential since a formal diagnosis is required to be able to use certain workplace protections, like flexible working and to access NHS medications.
Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three primary symptoms of ADHD. While everyone is likely to exhibit some of these characteristics on occasion, those who suffer from ADHD are likely to show them to a much more extensive degree than other people. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, unable to sit still or feeling restless, and may also have issues with planning and organisation. Impulsive behaviour can include making reckless decisions, buying items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD can be characterized by difficulty staying focused, procrastination, missing deadlines, or a lack of ability to think ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.
While many adults feel apprehensive about having a diagnosis, it is imperative to do so to get the support and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It will also help you understand your symptoms and find strategies and tools to deal with them. Many of our patients report that once they've been diagnosed, their lives alter to the better.
The assessment process consists of an examination of your symptoms and how they affect your life, the taking of the DIVA online test and a detailed interview. During your assessment our psychiatrists have years of experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are extremely competent in helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
The Assessment
You'll need to go through a thorough examination as an adult suffering from ADHD before you are diagnosed. This needs to be performed by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist within ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter how high their position in the pecking order of healthcare professionals is when it comes to their specific abilities, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information on your symptoms as is possible as they can, including how they affect you and your relationships and how long they last. They will also go over your medical background and ask questions about family mental health history as well. The doctor will then take into consideration the information gathered from a variety of sources and determine an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the examination you will be asked to take tests that are that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact of your symptoms on how you perform in your daily life. You might be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests like puzzles or timed exercises. They'll also take into consideration any other disorders you may have, as many of them may have symptoms similar to those associated ADHD.
The assessment will also involve an interview with a person who knows you well, for example, an individual from your family, partner or friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and 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 assessment, and the options available for treatment. This may include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic recommendations for your care and will go over any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time getting the diagnosis. The first step is to get a private assessment by a specialist physician who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor will also be able determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that may be the cause of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are due to medications you're taking.
Once the assessment is completed, your clinician will discuss your results and recommend a treatment plan. Based on the needs of each individual, you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulant medication that aid in reducing their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase brain's chemical signals, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which play an important role in attention and movements. Many people notice that their symptoms get better when they take the medication regularly.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses primarily on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can include strategies that can lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Certain people with ADHD may also benefit from dietary modifications that can boost their energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, especially if they are from 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 treatment because of this.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments isn't easy, especially if you do not have insurance. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics that take the financial aspects. Furthermore, these clinics are more likely to take part in a range of different insurance plans, and have interns and residents in training that can provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware of the fact that their problems with planning, organizing and completing tasks can lead to problems at work or relationships. People with high IQs are particularly likely to be unable to comprehend the effects of their ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these may result in other problems like depression, anxiety, or drug or alcohol dependence.
This article highlights the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS care which makes it difficult for many people to receive the treatment they require. Some pay for private healthcare, but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will be willing to sign 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 medications, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Always verify that the health professional you're thinking of working with has worked with adults who have ADHD. You can check this by how much is private adhd assessment looking on their website or calling them to make sure they have the knowledge you require. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
Finding the right therapist or psychiatrist is important, because they will be the one who prescribes your medication if needed. Find a doctor with special 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 therapist or psychiatrist. For instance, some people will be more comfortable with an therapist who is of their gender or ethnicity. You may also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with clients with kinks.