How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling under the burden of long NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private providers for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving inaccurate assessments. This has sparked debate and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to consult an Psychiatrist for a thorough examination to be diagnosed with ADHD. Although some people have their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only professional who can give you an official diagnosis that is recognized for the use of medication. This is crucial as a formal diagnosis is necessary in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to gain access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone has certain characteristics at times, those who have ADHD tend to exhibit them in a more extreme form. Hyperactivity can manifest as fidgeting or being restless. It could also be accompanied by problems with planning and organization. Impulsive behaviour can include making rash decisions, purchasing things without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms can include trouble staying focused on work that require attention, avoiding deadlines, or having trouble 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 hesitant to pursue an assessment. But, it is important to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD could bring relief and clarity in your life. It will also help you understand the symptoms and provide strategies and tools to overcome them. Many of our patients say that after being diagnosed, their lives alter for the better.
The process of assessment will include a conversation about your symptoms and how they impact your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test and an in-depth clinical interview. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel at ease.
The Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD, you will need to undergo an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. The assessment must be performed by medical professionals who are a specialist in ADHD. This could be a specialist psychologist, nurse or psychiatrist (though nurses cannot prescribe medication). It doesn't matter where they are in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, as it is their particular abilities and knowledge that define them as specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing to gather as much information about your symptoms as they can and how they impact you and your relationships and how long. They will also review your medical history and ask about your family mental health history as well. The specialist will then consider all the information collected from various sources and determine an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the examination during the assessment, you will be required to take tests that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal their impact on how you perform in your daily life. These may include questionnaires about your symptoms, memory and inkblots, as well as tests such as timed tasks or puzzles. They also consider any other conditions you might be suffering from since many of them can have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be interviewed as part of the assessment. This is to get further confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they are impacting your relationships or work.
The specialist will be able to provide you with a thorough explanation of the outcome of the examination, as well as the treatment options available. This may include a shared-care contract with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their recommended holistic plan for your treatment and will discuss any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time getting a diagnosis. The first step is to have an individual assessment with a specialist doctor who will be able to confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. The doctor will also be able to determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that could explain some of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are related to the medications you're taking.
After the examination your doctor will review the results and recommend the best treatment plan. Depending on your requirements, this could mean the use of psychotherapy or medications. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs 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 regulating attention and movements. Once the medication is taken regularly, most people find their symptoms improve rapidly and effectively.
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from a therapy 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. Certain people with ADHD also benefit from diet modifications, which can help to improve their concentration and energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, especially when they belong to a minority group. This is because some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or to be not treated.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take the cost into consideration. These clinics are also more likely to accept a variety of insurance plans, and have interns or residents in training who can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to understand the effects of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause problems 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 mechanisms that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these can cause other issues like anxiety, depression, or drug or alcohol abuse.
This story highlights the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS care, which makes it difficult for many to get the treatment they require. Some pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their doctors will sign an "shared care agreement" that would allow them to return back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
It is important to ensure that any health professional you are considering working with has a solid track of experience working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by checking up their website, or calling them to confirm that they have the experience you need. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy because they will be the ones who will prescribe medication if needed. Find a doctor who has completed specialized training in adult ADHD. You can do this by contacting your local support group book adhd assessment 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 choosing the right therapist or psychiatrist. For instance, some people prefer an therapist who is of their gender or ethnicity. It is also possible to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with kink clients.