How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in many patients because of the long waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot private clinics are providing unreliable health assessments. This has led to concerns and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to consult a psychiatrist for a full examination to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only person who can provide a definitive diagnosis for medication. This is essential since a formal diagnosis will be required to be able to use certain workplace protections, such as flexible working, and to get access to NHS medication.
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone displays some of these characteristics at times, those who have ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting or being agitated. It could also be accompanied by problems with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior may include making decisions that are reckless, buying things without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms may include difficulty staying focused on tasks that require attention, avoiding 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 about getting an assessment, it is imperative to do so in order to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can help you understand your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to help you overcome them. Many of our patients tell us that after being diagnosed, their lives change to the better.
The assessment process consists of an open discussion of your symptoms and how they affect your life, the completion of the DIVA online exam and an in-depth interview. During your examination our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are adept at helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
The Assessment
You'll have to undergo a thorough evaluation as an adult suffering from ADHD before being 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 is not important where they are in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, as it is their unique abilities and knowledge that define them as specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information on your symptoms as is possible and how they impact your relationships and you, and for how long. They will also go over your medical history and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The doctor will then take into consideration all the information gathered from various sources before determining a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the process of assessment you will be required to take tests that are designed to evaluate your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily activities. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots as well as puzzles or timed tasks. They also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from as they may have similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed as part of the evaluation. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they impact your work or relationships.
The person you speak to will be able give you a detailed report outlining the findings of your examination and the available options for treatment, such as a shared care agreement with your GP for medications (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
The process of determining if you have ADHD can be challenging for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to have an assessment in private by a specialist physician who will be able to confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor will also be able 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 are on.
After the evaluation your doctor will review the results and suggest a plan of treatment. Depending on your needs, this may involve beginning psychotherapy or medication. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that aid in reducing their symptoms. These medicines are believed to increase the availability of the brain's chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play an important part in regulating attention and movement. Many people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses primarily on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to reduce stress and improve their ability to manage time and work. Some people with ADHD may also benefit from diet changes that improve their energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, especially if they are from an ethnic minority. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD looks like. These people are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed or even denied treatment.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if you do not have insurance. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics which take into the financial aspects. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans and have residents or interns in training that can provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the effects their conditions have on their lives. They are often unaware that their difficulties in organising, planning and completing tasks lead to issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to overlook the effects of ADHD. They might develop strategies to cope that allow them to function lower than their capabilities but they can cause problems such as depression and anxiety as well as addiction to alcohol or drugs.
This story highlights the need for seeking out expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS care which makes it difficult for a lot of people to get the treatment they require. Some pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will be willing to sign the terms of a "shared care agreement" that would allow them to return back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. This can lead to them being required to pay for CBT therapy and medication on their own and even more costly professional coaching services.
You should always check whether any health professional you're considering working with has a positive track of experience working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by checking at their website or calling them to confirm they have the knowledge you require. You can also inquire whether they've treated comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
It is important to choose the right psychiatrist or therapy, since they are the ones to prescribe medication if necessary. Find a doctor get more info who has 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 selecting a therapist or psychiatrist, you must also be aware of your personal preferences. For instance, some individuals will be more comfortable with a psychiatrist who is of their gender or cultural. You might also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with kink-allied clients.