How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in many patients due to the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private providers to give them.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot of these private clinics provide inaccurate assessments. This has caused concern and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a thorough assessment by a psychiatrist. Although some people 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 treatment. This is especially important since the need for a formal diagnosis is essential to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also be able to access NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three most common symptoms of ADHD. While everyone exhibits some of these characteristics on occasion but those with ADHD typically exhibit them in a more extreme form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, inability to stay still or feel anxious, and can also be a problem with planning and organization. Impulsive behaviour can include making decisions that are reckless, buying things without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper preparation. Inattentive ADD can be identified by difficulty in staying focused or concentrating, procrastination, a lack of 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 about seeking an assessment, it is imperative to do so to receive the assistance and treatment you require. 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 them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves an open discussion of your symptoms and their impact on your life, the taking of the DIVA online exam and an extensive interview. During your assessment, our psychiatrists will have extensive experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly competent in helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
The Assessment
You'll need to go through an exhaustive examination as an adult suffering from ADHD before you are diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a specialist psychologist, nurse or psychiatrist (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It does not matter what their rank in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, in relation to their specific abilities, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will employ structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information about your symptoms as they can and how they impact you and your relationships, and for how long. They will also ask about your family's history of mental health and review your medical history. The specialist will then review all the information collected from a variety sources and make a diagnose in accordance with the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the assessment during the assessment, you will be required to take tests designed to assess your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact they have on your perform in your daily activities. You could be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests like puzzles or timed activities. They also take into account any other conditions you might be suffering from since they may have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with someone who knows you well, like an individual from your family, partner or a close friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they affect your work or relationships.
The person you speak to will be able to give you a comprehensive report detailing the outcome of your assessment and the options available for treatment, such as an agreement to share care with your GP for medication (where you only pay the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will go over their recommended holistic plan for your care and discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Being diagnosed with ADHD can be challenging for adults with the condition. The first step is to conduct a private examination by a specialist physician who can confirm or refuse the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if there are any other mental health conditions that could explain your symptoms, or whether they are caused by medications.
After the evaluation is completed your doctor will then discuss the results with you and suggest a treatment plan. Depending on the needs of each individual you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD take stimulant medication to ease their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase brain's natural chemical messages, such as norepinephrine and dopamine which play a crucial role in the development of attention and movement. The majority of people notice that their symptoms get better when they take the medication regularly.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to lessen frustration and improve their ability to manage time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary changes that can help to improve their concentration and energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, particularly if they are from an ethnic minority. This is because some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. These groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment because of this.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments isn't easy, especially if your insurance doesn't cover it. Hospital-based clinics often offer specialized ADHD clinics that take account finances. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans, and have interns or residents in training who can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD often struggle to recognize the effects their condition has on their lives. They don't always realize the fact that their struggles in organising, planning and completing tasks cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to not be able to recognize the effects of their ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function below their potential. However, these can result in other problems, such as anxiety, depression or alcohol or drug dependence.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS care, which makes it difficult for many people to receive the treatment they need. Some pay for private healthcare, but have no guarantee that their GP will sign a'shared care agreement' which will allow them to go back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after receiving more info an individual diagnosis of ADHD. This could mean having to paying for CBT therapy and medication on their own and even more costly specialist coaching services.
Make sure to ask if the health professional you're working with has experience working with adults who have ADHD. You can check their website or phone number to confirm if they have the expertise needed. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is important to choose the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones who prescribe medication if 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 consider your own personal preferences. For instance, some people are more comfortable with a psychiatrist who is a member of their gender or ethnicity. It is also possible to work someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with the kink client.