How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling with the burden of long 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 some private clinics provided unreliable assessments. This has caused controversy and concern over the quality of care patients receive.

Diagnosis

You'll need to consult an Psychiatrist for a thorough assessment in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only person who can give you an official diagnosis that is recognized for treatment. This is crucial as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by psychiatrists).

The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone exhibits certain traits on occasion, those who suffer from ADHD tend to display these traits to a greater extent than others. Hyperactivity can manifest as the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It may also include issues with planning and organization. Insane behavior may include making rash purchases without considering the implications, or rushing to situations without proper preparation. Inattentive ADD symptoms could include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks, 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 seeking a diagnosis, it is imperative to do so in order to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms and provide strategies and tools that will assist you in overcoming these. Many of our patients report that once they have been diagnosed, their lives change for 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 in-depth clinical interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel comfortable.

The Assessment

If you are an adult with ADHD is required to go through an exhaustive assessment before being diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It does not matter what their rank in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, as it comes down to their particular skills, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.

A doctor will conduct a structured interview to gather the most information possible about your symptoms, how they impact your life and relationships, and how long you've been suffering from them for. They will also go over your medical background and ask questions about the mental health history of your family as well. The doctor will then go over all the information collected from various sources and make a diagnose according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.

During the process of assessment, you will be asked to take tests that are designed to assess your symptoms and assess the impact they have on your daily functioning. You could be asked to fill out questionnaires regarding your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests such as puzzles or timed exercises. They also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from as many of these can present similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.

A friend, family member or partner will be questioned as part of the evaluation. This is done to gather more confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to determine how they impact your relationships and work.

The specialist will be able to give you a detailed account of the findings of the evaluation, as well as the treatment options available. This may include a shared-care contract with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic recommendations for your care and discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.

Treatment

Adults with ADHD may have difficulty getting a diagnosis. The first step is to have a private assessment with a specialist doctor who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor will also be able tell you if you have other mental health issues that might cause your symptoms, or if the symptoms are related to the medications you're taking.

After the assessment the doctor will go over the results and recommend a plan of treatment. Based on your specific requirements, this could mean beginning psychotherapy or medication. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to boost the availability of the brain's natural chemical messengers, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play an important part in regulating attention and movement. When the medication is used regularly, most people find their symptoms improve quickly and efficiently.

Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy focusing on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies to lessen frustration and help them manage time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary changes, which can aid in improving their concentration and energy levels.

Certain adults might have a harder time getting the diagnosis of ADHD particularly if they belong to an ethnic minority. This is because some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed or even refused treatment.

Finding low-cost evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take finances into account. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans, and have interns or residents in training who can provide treatment under mentor supervision.

Support

People with ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their issues with planning, organising and completing tasks lead to issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to overlook the effects of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function below their potential. However, these could cause other issues, such as anxiety, depression or alcohol or drug dependence.

This story highlights the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are struggling to get NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private healthcare, but there is no assurance that their physician will sign a'shared care agreement' which will allow them to return to the NHS for follow up treatment following an official diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.

Always verify that the health professional you're working with has experience working with adults with ADHD. You can check their website or phone number to confirm if they have the knowledge and experience required. You can check here also ask if they have dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).

It is essential to select the right psychiatrist or therapy, since they are the ones who will prescribe medication if needed. Find a doctor who has completed specialized training for adults with 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.

It is also important to consider your personal preferences when choosing a psychiatrist or therapist. For instance, some individuals are more comfortable with a psychiatrist who is a member of their gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients who are kink-allied.