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 willing to pay private companies for their services.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many private clinics provide unreliable health assessments. This has caused controversy and concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to undergo a thorough exam by a 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 treatment. This is especially important since the need for a formal diagnosis is essential for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also be able to access NHS medication (which is only prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone is likely to exhibit certain traits on occasion, those who suffer from ADHD tend to display these traits to a more extensive degree than other people. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, inability to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also include trouble with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can include reckless purchases without thinking about the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms may include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks, procrastinating, missing 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 seek a diagnosis. However, this is essential to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms, and find strategies and tools that will assist you in overcoming these. Many of our patients tell us that after being diagnosed, their lives change for the better.
The process of assessment will include an interview about your symptoms and how they affect your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test, and a detailed clinical interview. In your assessment, our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly adept at helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
Assessment
As an adult suffering from ADHD you'll need to undergo an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. This needs to be carried out by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, because it is their unique capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information on your symptoms as is possible, including how they affect your relationships and you and how long they last. They will also inquire 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 according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the examination you will be asked to take tests that are designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also determine their impact on how you perform in your daily life. You may be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests such as puzzles or timed tasks. They will also consider any other comorbid conditions that you might be suffering from as many of them can have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be questioned as part of the evaluation. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine if they affect your work or relationships.
The specialist will be able to give you a detailed account of the findings of the assessment, and the treatment options available. This could include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their recommended holistic plan for your care and discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD might have a difficult time getting a diagnosis. The first step is a private examination by a specialist physician who will confirm or denial a diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor can also inform you if there are other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms, or the cause of your symptoms is medication.
After the examination the doctor will go over the results and recommend an approach to treatment. Based on the specific requirements of each person you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medication that aid in reducing their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase brain's natural chemical messages, like norepinephrine and dopamine, which play an important role in regulating attention and movements. Most people notice that their symptoms get better when they take the medication regularly.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from therapy focusing on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can also include practical strategies to reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and assignments. adhd private assessment with ADHD also benefit from diet modifications, which can help to improve their energy levels and focus.
Certain adults are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, especially when they belong to a minority group. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD looks. The people in these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatments can be difficult, especially in the event that your insurance does not cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take finances into consideration. These clinics are also more likely to accept a variety of insurance plans, and have interns or residents in training who provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People with ADHD are often unable to comprehend the effects their condition has on their lives. They don't realize that their problems with planning, organizing and completing tasks could cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to be unable to comprehend the impact of their ADHD. They may develop strategies for coping that allow them to function at a level below their capacity but they can lead to problems such as anxiety and depression or the use of alcohol or drugs.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for a lot of people to receive the treatment they need. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will sign a'shared care agreement' that will allow patients to return to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after receiving an individual diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
You should always check whether any health professional you are considering working with has a positive track of experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. You can do this by checking on their website or calling them to confirm that they have the expertise you need. You can also check whether they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is important to choose the best psychiatrist or therapy since they are the ones who prescribe medication if necessary. Find a doctor with special 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 take into account your own personal preferences. For instance, some individuals are more comfortable with a psychiatrist who is of their gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with the kink client.