How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling with the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private providers for their services.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many private clinics provide unreliable health assessments. This has sparked controversy and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to go through a complete examination by psychiatrist. While some individuals have their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only one who can give you an official diagnosis that is recognized for the use of medication. This is especially important since a formal diagnosis is necessary in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to be able to access NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone has certain characteristics on occasion however, those with ADHD tend to exhibit these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, inability to sit still or feeling uneasy, and could also include trouble with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive choices, purchasing items without thinking about the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD can be characterized by difficulty staying focused and avoiding deadlines, procrastination or an inability ability 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 seeking an assessment, it is essential that you do so in order to receive the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms and provide strategies and tools to aid you in conquering them. Many of our patients report that once they have been diagnosed, their lives change to the better.
The assessment process involves an interview about your symptoms and how they affect your life, taking the DIVA online test, and a detailed interview with a clinical psychologist. In your assessment our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and are adept at helping you feel at ease and comfortable.
The Assessment
As an adult with ADHD you'll need to go through a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. This assessment must be performed by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a specialist psychologist, nurse or psychiatrist (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, because it is their specific capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as specialist.
A specialist will employ structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information about your symptoms as is possible, including how they affect you and your relationships, 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 specialist will then consider all the information collected from various sources and make a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment you will be asked to take tests that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess their impact on how you perform in your daily activities. These may include questionnaires about your symptoms, memory, and inkblots and sometimes tests such as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They also consider any other comorbid conditions that you might be suffering from since they may have similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed during the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they impact your work and relationships.
The person you speak to will be able to give you a detailed report outlining the outcome of your assessment and the options available for treatment, such as the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for prescriptions (where you only pay the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will outline their holistic plan as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
The process of determining if you have ADHD can be challenging for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to obtain an assessment in private by a specialist physician who can confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if you have other mental health conditions that could explain your symptoms or if they are caused by medication.
After the evaluation is completed, your clinician will discuss the results with you and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Based on your needs, this may involve starting medication or psychotherapy. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs that aid in reducing their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase the supply of the brain's natural chemical messengers such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial part in regulating attention and movement. Once the medication is taken frequently, many people notice that their symptoms get better quickly and efficiently.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies that reduce frustration and improve their ability to manage time and tasks. Certain people with ADHD might also benefit from diet changes that improve their energy levels.
Certain adults might be more difficult to get a diagnosis for ADHD, especially when they are part of minorities. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD looks 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. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take finances into account. Furthermore these clinics are more likely to take part in a variety of insurance plans and have residents and interns in training that can offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are particularly likely to fail to understand the impact of their ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these may cause other issues like anxiety, depression and alcohol or drug dependence.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are unable to access NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will sign a'shared care agreement' that allows them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following an official diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
You should always check whether any health professional you're thinking of working with has a good track record of working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by looking up their website, or by calling them to make sure that they have the experience you need. You can also inquire if they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Choosing the right therapist or psychiatrist is crucial, as they will be the one who prescribes your medication, if required. 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, it is important to consider your own personal preferences. For example, some people will be more comfortable with an therapist who is a member of their gender or culture. book an adhd assessment It is also possible to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients who are kink-allied.