How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling with the strain of logjammed 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 some private clinics provided inaccurate assessments. This has caused debate and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD to be diagnosed, you'll need to go through a complete examination with psychiatrist. While some individuals have their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only one who can provide you with an official diagnosis for medication. This is particularly important as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to gain access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, as well as inattention are the three most common symptoms of ADHD. While everyone has certain traits on occasion but those with ADHD typically exhibit these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactive behaviour includes fidgeting, being unable to stay still or feel uneasy, and could also be a problem with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior can include reckless choices, purchasing items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper preparation. Inattentive ADD symptoms could include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks that require attention, avoiding deadlines, or having difficulty 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. However, this is necessary in order to get the support and treatment that you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms and provide strategies and tools to help you overcome these. After being diagnosed, many 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 taking of the DIVA online exam, and a detailed interview. During your examination, our psychiatrists will have extensive experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are skilled at helping you to feel comfortable and at ease.
Assessment
As an adult suffering from ADHD you'll need to go through an exhaustive assessment before being diagnosed. This must be performed by an expert in healthcare who is an expert in ADHD. This can be a specialist nurse, psychologist or psychiatrist (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It does not matter how high their position in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals in relation to their particular capabilities, experience, and knowledge that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing techniques to gather as much information about your symptoms as is possible and how they impact your relationships and you and how long. They will also review your medical background and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The specialist will then review all the information collected from various sources and formulate a diagnosis based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
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 functioning. This could include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory, and inkblots and sometimes tests such as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They will also take into account any other conditions you may be suffering from, as many of them can have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed during the assessment. This is to get further confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to see if they are impacting your relationships or work.
The expert you meet with will be able give you a comprehensive report detailing the findings of your examination and the available options for treatment, such as a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you only pay the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will discuss their recommended holistic plan for your care and will go over any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
The process of determining if you have ADHD is not easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to have an individual assessment with a specialist doctor who will be able to confirm or deny the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if there are any other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms, or whether they are caused by medications.
Once the assessment is completed the doctor will review the results with you and suggest the best treatment plan. Based on your specific requirements, this could mean beginning psychotherapy or medication. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulants to alleviate their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost the brain's natural chemical messages like dopamine and norepinephrine, which play an important role in regulating attention and movements. The majority of people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from a program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can also include practical strategies to reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and tasks. Some people with ADHD might benefit from dietary changes that can boost their energy levels.
Some adults may be more difficult to get an diagnosis for ADHD particularly those who belong to minorities. Certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. These people are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or be not treated.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if you do not have insurance. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take finances into consideration. Additionally they are more likely to take part in a range of different insurance plans and have interns and residents in training who can provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They don't always realize that their issues in organising, planning and completing tasks lead to difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are particularly likely to be unable to comprehend the impact of their ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function below their potential. However, these can cause other issues like depression, anxiety and alcohol or drug abuse.
This article highlights the need for seeking out expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many people to receive the treatment they need. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but have no assurance that their physician will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' which will allow them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following a private diagnosis of ADHD. This could mean having to continue paying for private medication and CBT therapy and even more costly professional coaching services.
Make sure to ask if the health professional you're thinking of working with has worked with adults who have ADHD. You can do this by checking on their website or by calling them to confirm they have the knowledge you require. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
Finding the right psychiatrist or therapist is important, because they will be the one who prescribes your medication if needed. Look for a doctor who has completed specialized training in adult ADHD. You can do this by contacting your local support group for adults with ADHD, or the check here 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 consider your own personal preferences. Some people might be more comfortable with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or culture. You may also prefer to work someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with clients with kinks.