How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private companies for their services.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot of these private clinics are providing inaccurate assessments. This has sparked 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 assessment by psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only person who can provide a definitive diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is essential because a formal diagnosis is required to gain access to certain workplace protections, such as flexible working, as well as to get access to NHS medication.
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone exhibits certain traits on occasion, those with ADHD will often demonstrate these to a more severe degree than others. Hyperactivity can manifest as fidgeting or being agitated. It could also be accompanied by issues with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior may include making reckless decisions, buying things without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms may include difficulty keeping a focus 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 reluctant to get an assessment. However, this is important to receive the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can help you recognize your symptoms and provide strategies and tools that will assist you in overcoming these. Many of our patients report that once they've been diagnosed, their lives alter to the better.
The assessment process consists of an open discussion of your symptoms and how they impact your life, the taking of the DIVA online test and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel relaxed.
Assessment
As an adult suffering from ADHD is required to go through a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. This must be carried out by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter how high their position in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, in relation to their particular abilities, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A specialist will utilize structured interviewing to collect as much information on 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 look over your medical history. The specialist will then review all the information collected from a variety of 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 that are designed to measure your symptoms and assess their impact on your daily functioning. You may be asked to answer questions regarding your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests like puzzles or timed tasks. They will also consider any other comorbid disorders that you might be suffering from, as they may present symptoms that are similar to those triggered by ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed during the assessment. This is done to gather more corroborative evidence of your ADHD symptoms and to determine how they impact your relationships or work.
The expert you meet with will be able give you a thorough report that outlines the outcome of your assessment and the options available for treatment, such as a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you pay only the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will present their holistic plan as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Being diagnosed with ADHD can be challenging for adults with the condition. The first step is to obtain a private assessment by a specialist physician who will be able to confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able to determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that may be the cause of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are caused by the medication you're taking.
Once the test is complete your doctor will then discuss the results and suggest a treatment plan. Depending on the needs of each individual, you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs that aid in reducing their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance brain's chemical signals, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in regulating attention and movements. Once the medication is taken frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and effectively.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. It can also include practical strategies to reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and assignments. Certain people with ADHD also benefit from dietary changes that can improve their energy levels and concentration.
Some adults may have a difficult time obtaining the diagnosis of ADHD in particular those who belong to minorities. This is because some medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD is like. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or to be refused treatment.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be difficult, especially in the event that your insurance does not cover it. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take financial concerns into consideration. Furthermore, these clinics are more likely to be enrolled in a variety of 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 effects of their condition on their lives. They don't always realize the fact that their struggles in organising, planning and completing tasks cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to not be able to recognize the impact of their ADHD. They might develop strategies to cope that enable them to function at a level lower than their capabilities but they can cause problems such as depression and anxiety, or the use of alcohol or drugs.
This story highlights the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS care which makes it difficult for a lot of people to receive the treatment they require. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but there is no assurance that their physician will agree to a 'shared care agreement' which will allow patients to return to read more the NHS for follow up treatment following an individual diagnosis of ADHD. This could mean having to continue paying for CBT therapy and medication on their own or even more expensive specialist coaching services.
Always verify that the health professional you're working with has worked with adults who have ADHD. You can visit their website or call them to confirm if they have the experience and expertise required. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that co-exist with ADHD).
Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is essential, since they are the ones who will prescribe your medication if needed. Find a doctor with specialized training on 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 must also be aware of your personal preferences. For instance, some people prefer a psychiatrist who is their gender or cultural. You might also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients with kinks.