How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in many patients due to the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and will pay private providers to give them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided inaccurate assessments. This has sparked controversy and concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
You will need to see an Psychiatrist for a thorough assessment in order 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 the use of medication. This is particularly important as an official diagnosis is required 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 can be classified into three major categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone is likely to exhibit certain traits occasionally, those with ADHD are likely to show these to a more extensive degree than other people. Hyperactive behavior can include fidgeting or being restless. It may also include issues with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior can involve making decisions that are reckless, buying things without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD can be identified by difficulty staying focused, procrastination, missing deadlines, or a lack of ability to plan ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.
While many adults feel apprehensive about getting an ADHD diagnosis, it's imperative to do so to get the support and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can also help you understand your symptoms and help you find ways and methods to conquer them. Many of our patients say that after being diagnosed, their lives change to the better.
The assessment process consists of an open discussion of your symptoms and their impact on your life, and the completion of the DIVA online test and an extensive interview. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel relaxed.
Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD you'll need undergo an exhaustive assessment before being diagnosed. This must be carried out by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their rank in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is in relation to their specific skills, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist.
A doctor will conduct an organized interview to collect as much information as is possible about your symptoms, how they impact your life and relationships and how long you've been experiencing them for. They will also ask about your family's mental health history and examine your medical history. The doctor will then go over all the information collected from various sources and formulate a diagnosis in accordance with the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the examination, you will be required to take tests that are that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess their impact on how you perform in your daily activities. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory, and inkblots, as well as tests such as timed tasks or puzzles. They'll also take into consideration any other disorders you might be suffering from, as many of them may have symptoms that are similar to those triggered by ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned during the assessment. This is to get further corroborative evidence of your ADHD symptoms and to determine whether they affect your relationships or work.
The expert will provide you with a thorough explanation of the results of the assessment, and the treatment options available. This could include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will discuss their holistic recommendations for your care and discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time getting the diagnosis. The first step is to have an assessment in private with a specialist doctor who can confirm or deny the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with extensive experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able tell you if you have other mental health issues that could be the cause of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are due to medications you're taking.
After the examination the doctor will go over the results and recommend an approach to treatment. Based on the specific requirements of each patient you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs that help to improve their symptoms. These drugs are believed to boost brain's chemical signals, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a crucial role in regulating attention and movements. Once the medication is taken frequently, many people notice that their symptoms get better quickly and effectively.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can also include strategies to reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and tasks. Some people with ADHD may also benefit from diet changes, which can improve their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, especially if they are from a minority group. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD appears to be. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or to be not treated.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatments isn't easy, especially in the event that your insurance does not cover it. Many hospital-based clinics offer specialized ADHD clinics that take account finances. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans, and have residents or interns in training who provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks lead to difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to not understand the effects of ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function at a lower level than they could. However, these may lead to other problems like anxiety, depression or alcohol or drug dependence.
This story highlights the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Many people are struggling to access NHS care because of logjammed waiting lists. Some people pay for private health care but are not guaranteed that their doctors will sign the terms of a "shared care agreement" which would permit them to return back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. This could mean having to paying for private treatment and CBT and even more costly specialist coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're considering working with has expertise working with adults with ADHD. You can visit their website or phone number to confirm that they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that co-exist with ADHD).
Finding the right therapist private adhd assessment price or psychiatrist is essential, since they will be the one who will prescribe your medication if needed. 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 should also consider your own personal preferences. For instance, some individuals are more comfortable with a psychiatrist who is a member of their gender or cultural. It is also possible to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with kink-allied clients.