How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to receive answers and are willing to pay private companies to provide them with.

However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics are handing out unreliable health assessments. This has sparked concern and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.

Diagnosis

You'll need to visit a psychiatrist for a full evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. Although some people have their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only one who can give you a formally recognised diagnosis for treatment. This is particularly important as a formal diagnosis is necessary to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also get access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by a Psychiatrist).

Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three most common symptoms of ADHD. While everyone is likely to exhibit certain traits on occasion, those who suffer from ADHD are likely to show these traits to a more extensive degree than other people. Hyperactivity can manifest as fidgeting or being agitated. It may also include issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior may include making rash decisions, purchasing things without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD symptoms may include difficulty staying focused on tasks that require attention, avoiding deadlines, or having trouble 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, it's important to receive the support and treatment that you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms, and find strategies and tools that will aid you in conquering these. Once diagnosed, many of our patients claim that their lives have changed for the better.

The assessment process involves an open discussion about your symptoms and how they affect your life, taking the DIVA online test, and an extensive clinical interview. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel comfortable.

The Assessment

You'll have to undergo an extensive assessment as an adult with ADHD before being diagnosed. This must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is a specialist within ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or a specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It does not matter what their rank in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is when it comes to their specific capabilities, experience, and knowledge that make them a specialist.

A specialist will conduct an organized interview to collect as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships and the length of time you've been suffering from them for. They will also ask about the mental health history of your family members and examine your medical history. The specialist will then consider all the information collected from a variety of sources and make an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.

During the test during the assessment, you will be required to complete tests that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal the impact of your symptoms on how you function in your daily life. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots as well as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They will also consider any other comorbid disorders that you might have, since they may present symptoms that are similar to those triggered by ADHD.

A friend, family member or partner will be questioned during the assessment. This is to get further evidence to support your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they are impacting your relationships or work.

The expert will be able give you a detailed account of the outcome of the examination, as well as the options available for treatment. This may include a shared-care contract with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will outline their holistic treatment plan, as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.

Treatment

Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to obtain a private assessment with a specialist doctor who will be able to confirm or denial the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that may be the cause of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are caused by the medications you're taking.

Once the assessment is completed, your clinician will discuss your results and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Based on your specific requirements, this could mean starting medication or psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD take stimulant medication to ease their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost brain's natural chemical messages, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a significant role in regulating attention and movements. Once the medication is taken frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve quickly and effectively.

Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies to reduce stress and help them manage time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD also benefit from diet changes that can improve their concentration and energy levels.

Some adults are more likely to struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, especially when they belong to an ethnic minority. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD appears to be. These people are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or even denied treatment.

Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment can be a challenge, particularly if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take the cost into account. Additionally they are more likely to be enrolled in a variety of insurance plans, and have residents and interns in training that can offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.

Support

People suffering from ADHD are often unable to comprehend the effects their conditions have on their lives. They don't realize that their difficulties with planning, organizing and completing tasks could cause problems at work or relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to overlook the impact of ADHD. They might develop strategies to cope that allow them to function at a level below their potential, but these can lead to problems like anxiety and depression as well as the use of alcohol or drugs.

This story emphasizes the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS care which makes it difficult for many to access the treatment they need. Some people pay for private healthcare, but aren't guaranteed that their how much is a private adhd assessment uk GPs will agree to the terms of a "shared care agreement" that would allow patients to return to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.

Always verify that the health professional you're working with has experience working with adults who have ADHD. You can visit their website or phone number to confirm if they have the expertise needed. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that co-exist with ADHD).

It is important to choose the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy because they will be the ones who will prescribe medication if needed. Find a doctor 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 choosing a therapist or psychiatrist, you should also take into account your own personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable working with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or culture. You may also prefer to work someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with clients with kinks.