How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in many patients due to the long waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and willing to pay private companies for their services.

A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing inaccurate assessments. This has caused controversy and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.

Diagnosis

To be diagnosed with ADHD to be diagnosed, you'll need to undergo a thorough examination with psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only person who can provide you with an official diagnosis for treatment. This is crucial since a formal diagnosis will be required to gain access to certain workplace protections, like flexible working, as well as to be able to access NHS medications.

The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone displays certain traits at times, those who have ADHD typically exhibit these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, being unable to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also be a problem with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior can include reckless choices, purchasing items without considering the implications, or rushing to situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD is characterized by difficulty staying focused and avoiding deadlines, procrastination or an inability ability to plan ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.

Although many adults are nervous about seeking an assessment, it is essential that you do so to get the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It will also help you understand your symptoms and help you find strategies and tools to overcome them. Many of our patients report that after being diagnosed, their lives are changed for the better.

The assessment process involves an open discussion about your symptoms and how they impact your life, completing the DIVA online test and an extensive clinical interview. During your assessment, our psychiatrists will have extensive experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are extremely skilled at helping you to feel comfortable and at ease.

The Assessment

You will need to undergo a thorough examination as an adult suffering from ADHD before you can be diagnosed. The assessment must be performed by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist within ADHD. This can be a specialist psychologist, nurse or psychiatrist (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, as it is their unique skills and knowledge that defines them as an expert.

A specialist will use structured interviewing to collect as much information about your symptoms as possible, including how they affect you and your relationships, and for how long. They will also go over your medical history and ask about your the mental health history of your family as well. The doctor will then go over all the information collected from a variety of sources and determine a diagnosis according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.

During the process of assessment you will be required to take tests that are designed to measure your symptoms and assess their impact on your daily functioning. You could be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests like puzzles or timed activities. They also consider any other conditions you may be suffering from, as many of these can present similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.

The assessment will also include an interview with someone who knows you well, such as a here family member, partner or friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine whether they impact your work or relationships.

The expert will be able give you a detailed account of the findings 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 explain their holistic plan and any medication they feel is appropriate.

Treatment

Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to have a private evaluation by a specialist doctor who will confirm or deny a diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. The doctor can also inform you if there are other mental health conditions that could explain your symptoms or if they are caused by medications.

After the evaluation is completed your doctor will then discuss the results and suggest a treatment plan. Based on your specific requirements, this could mean the use of psychotherapy or medications. Many people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to boost the amount of brain's natural chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial part in regulating attention and movement. Once the medication is taken frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.

Adults with ADHD might benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This could also include practical strategies to lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and work. Some people with ADHD might benefit from dietary changes that can boost their energy levels.

Certain adults might have a difficult time obtaining the diagnosis of ADHD particularly when they are part of a minority group. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD appears to be. People from these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment due to this.

Finding low-cost assessments and treatments isn't easy, especially in the event that your insurance does not cover it. Hospital-based clinics often offer specialized ADHD clinics which take into consideration financial concerns. Additionally, these clinics are more likely to take part in a variety of insurance plans and have interns and residents in training who are able to provide treatment under mentor guidance.

Support

People suffering from ADHD often struggle to recognize the impact their conditions have on their lives. They often don't notice that their issues in organising, planning and completing tasks cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to fail to understand 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 result in other problems like anxiety, depression, or drug or alcohol addiction.

This story emphasizes the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS treatment, which makes it difficult for a lot of people to get the treatment they need. Some pay for private healthcare but they aren't sure if their doctors will sign the terms of a "shared care agreement" which would permit them to return back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. They could be required to continue paying for private therapy, medication, or even more expensive coaching services.

Always ensure that any health professional you're considering working with has a good track experience working with adults with ADHD. You can visit their website or phone number to confirm if they have the expertise needed. You can also inquire whether they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).

It is crucial to select the best psychiatrist or therapy since they are the ones who will prescribe medication when needed. Find a doctor who has completed 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.

It is also important to consider your personal preferences when choosing the right therapist or psychiatrist. Some people may be more comfortable working with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or culture. It is also possible to work someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience working with the kink client.