How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is unable to diagnose ADHD in many patients because of the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to get answers and will pay private providers to provide them with.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing inaccurate assessments. This has caused concern and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to go through a complete examination with a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only person who can provide a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is crucial as an official diagnosis is required in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone has certain characteristics on occasion however, those with ADHD typically exhibit them in a more extreme form. Hyperactivity can manifest as the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It could also be accompanied by problems with planning and organizing. Impulsive behaviour can include making decisions that are reckless, buying things without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD can be identified by a lack of focus or concentrating, procrastination, a lack of deadlines, 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 seek a diagnosis. But, it is necessary in order to get the support and treatment that you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can help you understand your symptoms and provide strategies and tools that will aid you in conquering them. Many of our patients say that once they've been diagnosed, their lives alter for the better.
The assessment process involves a discussion about your symptoms and how they affect your life, and the completion of the DIVA online exam and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel comfortable.
The Assessment
You'll have to undergo 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 could be a specialist nurse, psychologist or psychiatrist (though nurses cannot prescribe medication). It does not matter where they're in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, because it is their unique capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as specialist.
A specialist will utilize structured interviewing to collect as much information about your symptoms as they can, including how they affect your relationships with others and how long they last. They will also go over your medical history and ask questions about the mental health history of your family as well. The doctor will then review all the information gathered from various sources and determine an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the examination you will be asked to complete tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal their impact on how you perform in your daily activities. You might be asked to fill out questionnaires regarding your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests like puzzles or timed activities. They will also consider any other conditions you may be suffering from since many of them can have similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with a person who knows you well - such as someone from your family, a partner or friend. This is done to gather more confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they are impacting your relationships or work.
The specialist will be able to provide a full explanation of the results of the assessment, and the treatment options available. This could include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will present their holistic treatment plan, as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD check here may have difficulty getting the diagnosis. The first step is a private examination by a specialist doctor who can either confirm or denial a diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also inform you if there are other mental health conditions that could cause your symptoms or the cause of your symptoms is medication.
After the examination, your clinician will discuss the results and suggest an approach to treatment. Depending on your needs, this may involve the use of psychotherapy or medications. Many 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, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play an important role in the development of attention and movement. Once the medication is taken frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and effectively.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses primarily on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This could include strategies to reduce stress and improve their ability manage time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD also benefit from diet modifications, which can improve their energy levels and concentration.
Some adults may have a harder time getting the diagnosis of ADHD, especially when they are part of minorities. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or to be not treated.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly when you don't have insurance. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take the cost into account. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans, and have residents or interns in training who can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the effects of their condition on their lives. They don't always realize that their issues in organising, planning and completing tasks cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to not understand the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform less than their potential. However, these could lead to other problems like depression, anxiety or alcohol or drug abuse.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to get NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Some people pay for private healthcare, but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will agree to a "shared care agreement" that would allow them to return back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. This could result in them having to to pay for private medication and CBT therapy and even more costly professional coaching services.
Always verify that the health professional you're working with has expertise working with adults who have ADHD. You can look up their website or call them to confirm they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also inquire whether they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
It is essential to select the right psychiatrist or therapy, because 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.
When selecting a therapist or psychiatrist, you must also take into account your own personal preferences. For instance, some people will be more comfortable with an therapist who is a member of their gender or culture. You may also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience working with clients with kinks.