How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling under the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many private clinics are handing out inaccurate assessments. This has caused controversy and concern 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 provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis for treatment. This is especially important since an official diagnosis is required in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to be able to access NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone has certain traits at times but those with ADHD typically exhibit these characteristics in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting or being agitated. It may also include problems with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive decisions, buying items without considering the implications, or rushing to situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD can be identified by difficulty staying focused or concentrating, procrastination, a lack of deadlines 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 get a diagnosis. However, it's essential to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD could bring relief and clarity in your life. It can help you recognize the signs and symptoms, and help you find strategies and tools to assist you in overcoming these. Many of our patients report that once they've been diagnosed, their lives change for the better.
The assessment process will involve a conversation about your symptoms and how they affect your life, completing the DIVA online test and an extensive interview with a clinical psychologist. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel relaxed.
Assessment
You will need to undergo a thorough assessment as an adult with ADHD before being diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a specialist psychologist, nurse or psychiatrist (though nurses cannot prescribe medication). It doesn't matter where they are in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, because it is their unique abilities and knowledge that define them as specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing to collect as much information about your symptoms as they can and how they impact your relationships and you and how long they last. They will also inquire about your family's mental health history and examine your medical history. The specialist will then review all the information gathered from a variety of sources and determine a diagnosis according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the assessment process you will be required to take tests that are designed to assess your symptoms and assess the impact they have on your daily functioning. This could include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots and sometimes tests such as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They will also consider any other comorbid conditions that you might be suffering from since many of these can present similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned during the assessment. This is to get further confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they affect your relationships and work.
The specialist you meet with will be able give you a detailed report outlining the outcome of your assessment and the available options for treatment, such as the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for prescriptions (where you only pay the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will explain adhd assessments uk their holistic plan as well as any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to conduct a private evaluation by a specialist doctor, who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor will also inform you if there are any other mental health conditions that could explain your symptoms, or whether they are caused by medication.
After the assessment the doctor will go over the results and recommend an approach to treatment. Based on your specific needs, this may involve beginning psychotherapy or medication. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications which help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance brain's natural chemical messages, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a significant role in attention and movements. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve quickly and effectively.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include strategies that can reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and assignments. Some people with ADHD also benefit from dietary changes, which can help to improve their energy levels and focus.
Some adults may have a difficult time obtaining the diagnosis of ADHD particularly when they are part of an ethnic minority. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD appears to be. They are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or be denied treatment.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments isn't easy, especially when you don't have insurance. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics which take into consideration financial concerns. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans and have residents or interns in training that can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition book an adhd assessment on their lives. They don't always realize that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to be unable to comprehend the effects of their ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that enable them to function below their capacity, but these can cause problems such as anxiety and depression, or the use of alcohol or drugs.
This story highlights the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many to receive the treatment they require. Some people pay for private healthcare but are not guaranteed that their GPs will agree to a "shared care agreement" that would allow them private adhd assessment online to return back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. This could result in them being required to pay for CBT therapy and medication on their own and even more costly specialist coaching services.
Make sure to ask if the health professional you're considering working with has experience working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by checking at their website or calling them to confirm they have the knowledge you need. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
It is essential to select the best psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones who prescribe medication if needed. Find a doctor with 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, it is important to be aware of your personal preferences. Some people might be more comfortable working with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with a therapist adhd assessment private uk who is LGBTQIA+ allied psychiatry adhd assessment or has experience working with clients who are kink-allied.