How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling under the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and are willing to pay private companies for their services.

A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided inaccurate assessments. This has caused concern and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.

Diagnosis

To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full exam by psychiatrist. Although some people have their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only person who can provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis for the use of medication. This is essential because a formal diagnosis is required to be able to use certain workplace protections, including flexible working and to get access to NHS medications.

The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone displays certain characteristics occasionally however, those with ADHD often show these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactivity can manifest as fidgeting or being agitated. It can also indicate problems with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can include reckless choices, purchasing items without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD can be identified by difficulty in staying focused and avoiding deadlines, procrastination or an inability ability to think 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 get a diagnosis. But, it is necessary in order to get the support and treatment that you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can help you recognize your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to help you overcome them. Many of our patients tell us that once they have been diagnosed, their lives change for the better.

The process of assessment will include a conversation about your symptoms and how they affect your life, taking the DIVA online test, and an extensive interview with a clinical psychologist. During your assessment our psychiatrists will have extensive experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly competent in helping you feel relaxed and at ease.

Assessment

You will need to undergo an extensive evaluation as an adult suffering from ADHD before you can be diagnosed. This needs to be carried out by an expert in healthcare who is an expert in ADHD. This can be a specialist nurse, psychologist or psychiatrist (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It doesn't matter how high their position in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is when it comes to their particular capabilities, experience, and knowledge that define them as a specialist.

A specialist will employ structured interviewing to collect as much information about your symptoms as is possible and how they impact your relationships and you, and for how long. 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 before determining a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.

During the assessment process, you will be asked to take tests that are designed to how much is private adhd assessment assess your symptoms and assess the impact they have on your daily functioning. You might be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests like puzzles or timed activities. They will also consider any other comorbid disorders that you might be suffering from, as many of them can present symptoms that are similar to those triggered by ADHD.

A friend, family member or partner will be questioned as part of the evaluation. This is to get further corroborative evidence of your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they affect your relationships and work.

The expert will be able provide a full explanation of the findings of the assessment, and the options available for treatment. This may include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will present their holistic plan as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.

Treatment

Adults suffering from ADHD may have difficulty getting a diagnosis. The first step is to conduct a private examination by a specialist physician who can confirm or refuse the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if there are any other mental health conditions that could explain your symptoms, or whether they are caused by medications.

Once the assessment is completed, your clinician will discuss the results and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Based on the specific needs of each individual you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD receive stimulant medications to ease their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase the brain's natural chemical messages like norepinephrine and dopamine, which play an important role in regulating attention and movements. The majority of people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication regularly.

Adults with ADHD may benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to lessen frustration and improve their ability manage time and tasks. Certain people with ADHD may also benefit from diet changes, which can improve their energy levels.

Certain adults might have a harder time getting an diagnosis for ADHD in particular those who belong to an ethnic minority. This is because some medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD appears to be. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or be refused treatment.

Finding affordable treatments and evaluations isn't easy, especially in the event that you don't have insurance. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take the cost into consideration. Furthermore they are more likely to participate 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 struggle to understand the effects of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks lead to problems at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to not understand the effects of ADHD. They may develop strategies for coping that allow them to function at a level lower than their capabilities, but these can lead to problems like anxiety and depression as well as alcohol or drug abuse.

This story highlights the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS care, which makes it difficult for a lot of people to receive the treatment they require. Some people pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will be willing to sign the terms of a "shared care agreement" that would allow them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.

You should always check that any health professional you're considering working with has a positive track record of working with adults with ADHD. You can check their website or contact them to confirm that they have the expertise needed. You can also check whether they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).

It is essential to select the right psychiatrist or therapy, since they are the ones who prescribe medication when 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.

You should also think about your personal preferences when selecting a therapist or psychiatrist. For example, some people will be more comfortable with a psychiatrist who is their gender or ethnicity. You may also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with clients who are kink-allied.