How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is unable to diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients due to the long waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private providers for their services.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot private clinics are providing unreliable assessments. This has caused controversy and concern over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You will need to see an experienced psychiatrist for a complete evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only one who can give a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is important since a formal diagnosis is required to be able to use certain workplace protections, including flexible working, and to get access to NHS medications.
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention are the three main symptoms of ADHD. While everyone exhibits certain traits occasionally, those who suffer from ADHD will often demonstrate these traits to a more severe degree than others. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, being unable to stay still or feel uneasy, and could also include trouble with planning and organisation. Insane behavior may include making rash purchases without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks, procrastinating, missing deadlines or finding it difficult 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 getting an assessment, it is vital to seek one to get the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you understand the symptoms and provide strategies and tools to overcome them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The process of assessment involves an examination of your symptoms and how they impact your life, the completion of the DIVA online test and an extensive interview. In your assessment our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and are extremely skilled at helping you to feel relaxed and at ease.
The Assessment
You will need to undergo an exhaustive assessment as an adult with ADHD before you can be diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychiatrist, psychologist or specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter how high their position in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is when it comes to their particular abilities, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information about your symptoms as is possible, including how they affect your relationships and you, and for how long. They will also review your medical history and ask questions about the mental health history of your family as well. The doctor will then go over all the information collected from a variety of sources and make a diagnose based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the assessment during the assessment, you will be required to complete tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact of your symptoms on how you perform in your daily activities. You might be asked to complete questionnaires regarding your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests like puzzles or timed tasks. They also take into account any other conditions you might be suffering from since many of them can have similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
The assessment will also include an interview with a person who knows you well, for example, a family member, partner or a friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine whether they impact your work or relationships.
The expert you meet with will be able to give you a detailed report outlining the findings of your examination and what options are available to treat your condition, including a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you pay just the NHS prescription cost). adhd assessment psychiatrist The specialist will present their holistic treatment plan, as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD may have difficulty getting an assessment. The first step is a private examination by a specialist doctor, who can confirm or deny the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that might explain some of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are caused by the medication you're taking.
After the evaluation your doctor will review the results and suggest the best treatment plan. Based on your needs, this could involve starting medication or psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulant medication which help improve their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost brain's chemical signals, such as norepinephrine and dopamine which play a significant role in the development of attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve quickly and effectively.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from a program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This could include strategies to lessen frustration and help them manage time and manage their tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD may also benefit from dietary modifications that improve their energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, especially in the case of the minority group. Certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. People from these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment because of this.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be challenging, especially in the event that you don't have insurance. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take the cost into consideration. Additionally they are more likely to participate in a variety of insurance plans and have residents and interns in training who are able to offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD often struggle to recognize the impact their conditions have on their lives. They are often unaware the fact that their struggles with planning, organising and completing tasks can cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to be unaware of the effects of ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function below their potential. However, these can result in other problems, such as anxiety, depression and alcohol or drug dependence.
This story demonstrates the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS treatment, which makes it difficult for many people to receive the treatment they require. Some pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will agree to the terms of a "shared care agreement" which would permit patients to return to the NHS to receive follow-up care after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
Always ensure that any health professional you are considering working with has a good track experience working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can look up their website or contact them to confirm they have the experience and expertise required. You can also ask whether they have dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
It is essential to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones who prescribe medication if needed. Find a doctor with 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, you should also be aware of your personal preferences. Some people may feel more comfortable with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or cultural. You might also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients who are kink-allied.