How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing unreliable assessments. This has led to concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You will need to see a psychiatrist for a full evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only person who can provide a formal diagnosis for medication. 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 can only be prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone displays certain characteristics at times however, those with ADHD often show them in a more extreme form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, inability to stay still or feel uneasy, and could also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behaviour can include making rash decisions, purchasing things without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD can be identified by difficulty in 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.
Many adults are hesitant to pursue an assessment. But, it is essential to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you 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 report that once they have been diagnosed, their lives change for the better.
The process of assessment involves a discussion about your symptoms and their impact on your life, and the completion of the DIVA online exam, and an extensive interview. During your assessment, our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and are extremely skilled at helping you to feel comfortable and at ease.
Assessment
As an adult with ADHD is required to go through an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. This must be conducted by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist within ADHD. This can be a specialist nurse, psychologist or psychiatrist (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their rank in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is when it comes to their particular skills, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A specialist will use a structured interview to gather the most information possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships, and the length of time you've been experiencing them for. They will also inquire about your family's mental health history and review your medical history. The specialist will then consider all the information gathered from a variety of sources and make a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the test you will be asked to take tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact of your symptoms on how you perform in your daily life. This could include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory, and inkblots, as well as tests such as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They will also take into account any other conditions you might be suffering from, as many of these can present similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
The assessment will also include an interview with someone who knows you well, like someone from your family, a partner or a friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine if they affect your work and relationships.
The person you speak to will be able to provide you a thorough report that outlines the outcome of your assessment and the options available to treat your condition, including a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you only pay the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will discuss their recommended holistic plan for your treatment and will discuss any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time getting an assessment. The first step is to have an individual assessment by a specialist physician who can confirm or deny the diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that could be the cause of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are caused by the medications you're taking.
After the evaluation your doctor will review the results and recommend the best treatment plan. Depending on the requirements of each patient, you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to help improve their symptoms. These medicines are believed to boost the amount of brain's natural chemical messengers such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which play a key part in regulating attention and movement. The majority of people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses primarily on improving their relationships and self-esteem. These can include strategies to lessen frustration and improve their ability to manage time and tasks. Certain people with ADHD can benefit from dietary changes, which can improve their energy levels.
Certain adults might have a harder time getting an diagnosis for ADHD, especially those who belong to an ethnic minority. Some medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD looks. They are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or be not treated.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments isn't easy, especially in the event that your insurance does not 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 offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They don't realize that their issues get more info with organizing, planning and completing tasks could cause problems at work or relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to overlook the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these may result in other problems like depression, anxiety and alcohol or drug abuse.
This story demonstrates the need for seeking out expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are unable to access NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their doctors will sign a "shared care agreement" that would allow them to return back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. This could mean having to to pay for CBT therapy and medication on their own or even more expensive specialist coaching services.
It is important to ensure whether any health professional you're considering working with has a solid track record of working with adults suffering from ADHD. You can visit their website or phone number to confirm they have the experience and expertise required. You can also inquire whether they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Finding the right therapist or psychiatrist is essential, since they are the ones who will prescribe your medication, if required. Find a doctor with special training on 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 must also consider your own personal preferences. Some people might be more comfortable working with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or culture. You might also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with clients with kinks.