How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling with the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and will pay private providers to provide them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing unreliable assessments. This has led to concerns and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full assessment with a psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only person who can provide you with an official diagnosis for medication. This is crucial because a valid diagnosis is required to gain access to certain workplace protections, like flexible working and to be able to access NHS medications.
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone is likely to exhibit some of these characteristics on occasion, those with ADHD will often demonstrate them to a much greater extent than others. Hyperactive behaviour includes fidgeting, unable to sit still or feeling restless, and may also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can involve making decisions that are reckless, buying items without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD symptoms could include difficulty staying focused on work, procrastinating, missing deadlines or having difficulty 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 about having a diagnosis, it is essential that you do so to get the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you to understand your symptoms and help you find strategies and tools to deal with them. Once diagnosed, many of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves a conversation about your symptoms and how they impact your life, completing the DIVA online test, and an extensive clinical interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel comfortable.
The Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD is required undergo 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 psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their rank in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, when it comes to their particular abilities, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A doctor will conduct an organized interview to collect as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they impact your relationships and life, and how long you have been suffering from them for. 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 gathered from a variety sources and formulate a diagnosis according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the assessment during the assessment, you will be required to take tests that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal the impact of your symptoms on how you function in your daily life. You may be asked to fill out questionnaires about your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests like puzzles or timed exercises. They will also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from, as they may have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned as part of the assessment. This is done to gather more confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they are impacting your relationships and work.
The specialist will be able to provide a full explanation of the results of the examination, as well as the options available for treatment. This may include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will discuss their recommended holistic plan for your treatment and will discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time getting an assessment. The first step is to conduct a private evaluation by a specialist doctor who will confirm or denial a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that could be the cause of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are caused by the medication you're taking.
After the examination your doctor will review the results and suggest the best treatment plan. Depending on the requirements of each patient you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD get more info are prescribed stimulant drugs that aid in reducing their symptoms. These drugs are believed to increase the availability of the brain's chemical messengers, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a crucial part in regulating attention and movement. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve quickly and effectively.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can include strategies that can reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and work. Certain people with ADHD can also benefit from dietary changes, which can help to improve their energy levels and concentration.
Certain adults might have a harder time getting an diagnosis for ADHD particularly those who belong to minorities. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or even not treated.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be challenging, especially if you don't have insurance. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics that take into consideration financial concerns. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans, and have interns or residents in training who offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD often struggle to recognize the effects their conditions have on their lives. They don't realize that their issues with planning, organizing and completing tasks can cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to be unable to comprehend the effects of their ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform at a lower level than they could. However, these can lead to other problems like depression, anxiety or alcohol or drug abuse.
This story demonstrates the need to seek expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are unable to get NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private healthcare but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will be willing to sign an "shared care agreement" which would permit them to return back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private therapy, medication, or even more expensive 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 check their website or call them to confirm they have the expertise needed. You can also inquire if they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
It is important to choose the best psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones who will prescribe medication if necessary. Find a doctor with special 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.
You should also think about your personal preferences when choosing a therapist or psychiatrist. Some people may be more comfortable with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or cultural. You might also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with the kink client.