How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private companies for their services.
However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot private clinics are providing unreliable assessments. This has led to some controversy and raised concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD to be diagnosed, you'll need to undergo a full examination with psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a definitive diagnosis for treatment. This is essential because a valid diagnosis will be required to access certain workplace protections, including flexible working, as well as to access NHS medication.
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention are the three primary signs of ADHD. While everyone exhibits certain characteristics occasionally, those who have ADHD often show these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactive behaviour includes fidgeting, unable to remain still, or feeling uneasy, and could also include trouble with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can include reckless decisions, buying items without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD symptoms could include difficulty staying focused on work and putting off deadlines, or having difficulty 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, this is important to receive the support and treatment that you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms, and find strategies and tools that will assist you in overcoming these. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The process of assessment will include an interview about your symptoms and how they affect your life, completing the DIVA online test, and a detailed interview with a clinical psychologist. During your examination, our psychiatrists will have extensive experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly competent in helping you feel relaxed and at ease.
Assessment
As an adult with ADHD you'll need undergo a thorough assessment before being diagnosed. The assessment 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 where they're in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, as it is their specific abilities and knowledge that define them as specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviews to gather as much information about your symptoms as they can and how they impact your relationships and you, and for how long. They will also inquire about your family's history of mental health and examine your medical history. The specialist will then consider all the information collected from various sources and make an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the process of assessment you will be asked to complete tests that are designed to measure your symptoms and assess their impact on your daily functioning. You might be asked to complete questionnaires regarding your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests like puzzles or timed tasks. They also consider any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from as many of these can present similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
The assessment will also involve an interview with a person who is familiar with you - such as someone from your family, a partner or a friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they affect your work or relationships.
The person you speak to will be able give you a comprehensive report detailing the findings of your examination and the available options to treat your condition, including the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you pay only the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will present their holistic plan as well as any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD might have difficulty obtaining an assessment. The first step is a private evaluation by a specialist doctor who can confirm or website deny the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor can also determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that might cause your symptoms, or if the symptoms are due to medication you're taking.
Once the test is complete the doctor will review the results and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Based on your specific requirements, this could mean beginning psychotherapy or medication. Most people with ADHD take stimulant medication to ease their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase brain's natural chemical messages, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in attention and movements. Once the medication is taken regularly, most people find their symptoms improve quickly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies to lessen frustration and improve their ability to manage time and manage their tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD might also benefit from dietary modifications that can boost their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, particularly in the case of an ethnic minority. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD appears to be. They are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or to be refused treatment.
Finding affordable treatment and evaluations isn't easy, especially when you do not have insurance. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take the cost into consideration. Furthermore they are more likely to take part in a range of different insurance plans, and have interns and residents in training that can provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to comprehend the effects of their condition on their lives. They often don't notice that their issues in organising, planning and completing tasks lead to issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to overlook the effects of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function below their potential. However, these may cause other issues like anxiety, depression and alcohol or drug abuse.
This story highlights the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS care which makes it difficult for many people to receive the treatment they require. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but have no assurance that their doctor will agree to a 'shared care agreement' that allows them to go back to the NHS for follow up treatment after receiving a private diagnosis of ADHD. They could be required to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
You should always check that any health professional you are considering working with has a solid track of experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. You can look up their website or phone number to confirm if they have the expertise needed. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that co-exist with ADHD).
Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is essential, since they are the ones who will prescribe your medication if needed. Find a doctor with specialized 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.
You should also think about your personal preferences when choosing a therapist or psychiatrist. Some people may be more comfortable with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with kink clients.