How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling with the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private firms for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving inaccurate assessments. This has sparked controversy and concern over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to go through a complete examination with psychiatrist. Although some people 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 that is recognized for treatment. This is especially important since the need for a formal diagnosis is essential to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to gain access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone has some of these characteristics at times, those who have ADHD typically exhibit these characteristics in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, being unable to sit still or feeling uneasy, and could also have issues with planning and organisation. Impulsive behaviour can include making reckless decisions, buying things without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD can be identified by difficulty in staying focused and avoiding deadlines, procrastination, or a lack of ability 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 a diagnosis. However, this is necessary in order to get the support and treatment that you need. A diagnosis of ADHD could bring relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you to understand your symptoms and find strategies and tools to overcome them. Many of our patients tell us that once they have been diagnosed, their lives change to the better.
The assessment process involves a conversation about your symptoms and how they impact your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test, and an extensive clinical interview. In your assessment, our psychiatrists will have extensive experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly adept at helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD, you will need to undergo an exhaustive assessment before being diagnosed. This needs to be conducted by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This can be a psychiatrist, psychologist or a specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, because it is their unique skills and knowledge that defines them as a specialist.
A specialist will conduct an organized interview to collect the most information possible about your symptoms, how they impact your life and relationships and how long you've been experiencing them for. They will also go over your medical background and ask questions about family mental health history as well. The doctor will then take into consideration all the information collected from a variety of sources and make an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the examination during the assessment, you will be required to take tests designed to assess your symptoms. These tests will also reveal the impact of your symptoms on how you function in your daily life. These may include questionnaires about your symptoms, memory and inkblots and sometimes tests such as timed tasks or puzzles. They'll also take into consideration any other disorders you might have, since they may present symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be questioned during the assessment. This is to get further confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to see how they impact your relationships and work.
The specialist you meet with will be able to provide you a detailed report outlining the outcome of your assessment and the available options to treat your condition, including a shared care agreement with your GP for medications (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will go over their holistic recommendations for your how much for a private adhd assessment treatment and will discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to conduct a private evaluation by a specialist doctor who will confirm or denial a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. The doctor will also be able inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that may cause your symptoms, or if your symptoms are caused by the medication you are on.
After the evaluation your doctor will review the results and recommend the best treatment plan. Based on the needs of each individual you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to alleviate their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost brain's natural chemical messages, such as norepinephrine and dopamine which play a crucial role in the development of attention and movement. Most people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can include strategies that can reduce their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Certain people with ADHD might benefit from dietary changes, which can improve their energy levels.
Certain adults might have a difficult time obtaining the diagnosis of ADHD, especially those who belong to minorities. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD is like. They are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or be denied treatment.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics have specialized ADHD clinics that take financial concerns into account. Furthermore they are more likely to take part in a variety of insurance plans, and have residents and interns in training who can provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People with ADHD often struggle to recognize the impact their conditions have on their lives. They don't always realize the fact that their struggles in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause problems at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to not be able to recognize the impact of their ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function at a lower level than they could. However, these can result in other problems, such as depression, anxiety or alcohol or drug abuse.
This story highlights the need for seeking out expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS care, which makes it difficult for many to get the treatment they need. Some people pay for private healthcare, but they aren't sure if 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. They could be required to continue paying for private therapy, medication, or even more costly coaching services.
You should always check whether any health professional you're considering working with has a solid track experience working with adults with ADHD. You can check this by looking at their website or contacting them to make sure that they have the experience you require. You can also ask if they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Finding the right therapist or psychiatrist is important, because they are the ones who will prescribe your medication, if required. Find a doctor with 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 be aware of your personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with clients with kinks.