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 in desperate need of answers and willing to pay private companies for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving inaccurate assessments. This has led to some controversy and raised concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a thorough assessment with a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only person who can provide a definitive diagnosis for medication. This is crucial as an official diagnosis is required in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, as well as inattention are the three main symptoms of ADHD. While everyone will show some of these characteristics occasionally, those with ADHD are likely to show these to a more severe degree than others. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, unable to stay still or feel anxious, and can also have issues with planning and organization. Insane behavior may include making rash decisions, buying items without thinking about the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty staying focused on tasks and putting off 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.
Many adults are hesitant to pursue a diagnosis. But, it is important to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can also help you understand the symptoms and provide ways and methods to conquer them. Many of our patients report that once they have been diagnosed, their lives alter to the better.
The assessment process involves a conversation about your symptoms and how they affect your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test and a detailed clinical interview. During your assessment, our psychiatrists have years of experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly competent in helping you feel relaxed and at ease.
The Assessment
As an adult with ADHD is required to go through an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. This assessment must be performed by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychiatrist, psychologist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It does not matter where they're in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, since it is their specific abilities and knowledge that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will utilize structured interviewing to collect as much information on your symptoms as 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 family mental health history as well. The specialist will then review all the information gathered from various sources and make a diagnose according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the process of assessment, you will be asked to complete tests designed to evaluate your symptoms and assess their impact on your daily life. You might be asked to answer questions regarding your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests such as puzzles or timed activities. They will also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from, as many of these can present similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned as part of the assessment. This is in order to obtain more confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to see if they are impacting your relationships or work.
The person you speak to will be able give you a thorough report that outlines the findings of your examination and the options available for treatment, including the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for medications (where you pay just the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will present their holistic plan and 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 obtain a private assessment with a specialist doctor who can confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with years of experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that may be the cause of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are due to medication you're taking.
After the examination, your clinician will discuss the results and suggest the best treatment plan. Based on the requirements of each patient, you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulants to ease their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance brain's chemical signals, such as norepinephrine and dopamine which play a crucial role in the development of attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, most people find their symptoms improve quickly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can also include strategies to reduce their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and tasks. Certain people with ADHD may benefit from dietary changes that improve their energy levels.
Certain adults might have a difficult time obtaining a diagnosis for ADHD, especially those who belong to a minority group. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD looks like. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or be refused treatment.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment isn't easy, especially when your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take the cost into account. Furthermore, these clinics are more likely to participate in a range of different insurance plans and have residents and interns in training who are able to provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware that their problems with organizing, planning and completing tasks could cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to fail to understand the effects of their ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that enable them to perform below read more their potential. However, these may cause other issues, such as anxiety, depression and alcohol or drug abuse.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS care which makes it difficult for many to receive the treatment they need. Some pay for private healthcare, but they aren't sure if their GPs will be willing to sign the terms of a "shared care agreement" which would permit them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. This can lead to them having to continue paying for private treatment and CBT and even more costly specialist coaching services.
Always ensure whether any health professional you're considering working with has a good track experience working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can do this by checking on their website or calling them to make sure they have the knowledge you need. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that co-exist with ADHD).
It is essential to select the right psychiatrist or therapy, since they are the ones to prescribe medication if necessary. 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 Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) organization to find an expert in your area.
When choosing a therapist or psychiatrist, you must also consider your own personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable working with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or ethnicity. You might also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with kink-allied clients.