How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling with the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and will pay private providers to provide them.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics provide unreliable assessments. This has sparked some controversy and raised concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to go through a complete assessment by a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only one who can give a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is especially important since a formal diagnosis is necessary to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to be able to access 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 is likely to exhibit some of these characteristics on occasion, those who suffer from ADHD will often demonstrate these to a greater extent than others. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, unable to sit still or feeling anxious, and can also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive choices, purchasing items without thinking about the consequences, or rushing to situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD can be identified by a lack of focus, procrastination, missing deadlines or an inability ability to think ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.
Many adults are hesitant to seek a diagnosis. However, it's necessary in order to get the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you understand the signs and symptoms, and help you find strategies and tools to aid you in conquering these. Once diagnosed, many of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process will involve an interview about your symptoms and how they affect your life, completing the DIVA online test, and an in-depth clinical interview. During your assessment our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and are extremely skilled at helping you to feel relaxed and at ease.
Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD, you will need to go through an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. The assessment must be carried out by a healthcare professional who is an expert in ADHD. This can be a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter where they are in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, as it is their particular abilities and knowledge that define them as an expert.
A specialist will employ structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information on your symptoms as is possible and how they impact your relationships and you and how long they last. They will also go over your medical history and ask about your the history of your family's mental health as well. The specialist will then consider all the information collected from a variety of sources and determine an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment process you will be asked to complete tests designed to measure your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily life. You could be asked to complete questionnaires about website your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed activities. They also take into account any other conditions you may be suffering from since they may have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
The assessment will also include an interview with a person who knows you well - like a family member, partner or a close friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine if they affect your work or relationships.
The specialist you meet with will be able to provide you a comprehensive report detailing the outcome of your assessment and the available options for treatment, such as an agreement to share care with your GP for medication (where you only pay the NHS prescription charge). The specialist will present their holistic treatment plan, as well as any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to get a private assessment by a specialist physician who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor will also be able to determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that may be the cause of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are caused by the medications you're taking.
After the evaluation, your clinician will discuss the results and recommend a plan of treatment. Based on your specific needs, this could involve the use of psychotherapy or medications. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulants to ease their symptoms. These medicines are believed to boost the amount of brain's natural chemical messengers such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in attention and movement. The majority of people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies to lessen frustration and improve their ability to manage time and tasks. Some people with ADHD may benefit from dietary changes that improve their energy levels.
Some adults may be more difficult to get a diagnosis for ADHD particularly if they belong to a minority group. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD is like. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or to be refused treatment.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics have specialized ADHD clinics that take finances into account. Furthermore, these clinics are more likely to be enrolled in a range of different insurance plans, and have residents and interns in training who can offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the effects of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware of the fact that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks could cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to overlook the impact of ADHD. They might develop strategies to cope that enable them to function lower than their capabilities but they can cause problems such as depression and anxiety or alcohol or drug abuse.
This story demonstrates the need for seeking out expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are struggling to get NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Others pay to access private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' that allows them to return to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after receiving a private diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
You should always check whether any health professional you are considering working with has a solid track of experience working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can do this by checking at their website or calling them to make sure that they have the expertise you need. You can also inquire if they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones who prescribe medication if necessary. Choose a doctor that 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.
When selecting a therapist or psychiatrist, it is important to take into account your own personal preferences. For instance, some individuals prefer an therapist who is a member of their gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with clients who are kink-allied.