How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling with the burden of long NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to receive answers and will pay private companies to provide them.
However, a recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot private clinics are handing out unreliable assessments. This has led to controversy and concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to undergo a thorough examination by a psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only one who can give you a formally recognised diagnosis for medication. This is especially important since an official diagnosis is required to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to be able to access NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention are the three main symptoms of ADHD. While everyone exhibits certain traits at times however, those with ADHD tend to exhibit them in a more extreme form. Hyperactive behaviour includes fidgeting, unable to sit still or feeling anxious, and can also be a problem with planning and organisation. Insane behavior may include making rash purchases without thinking about the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks that require attention, avoiding 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 about getting a diagnosis, it is imperative to do so to receive the assistance and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It will also help you understand your symptoms and find strategies and tools to overcome them. Many of our patients say that once they've been diagnosed, their lives are changed for the better.
The assessment process will involve a conversation about your symptoms and how they impact your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test and an in-depth clinical interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel at ease.
Assessment
You will need to undergo an extensive assessment as an adult with ADHD before you can be diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This could be a specialist nurse, psychologist or psychiatrist (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It does not matter what their rank in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, in relation to their particular skills, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will conduct an organized interview to gather the most information possible about your symptoms, how they impact your relationships and life, and how long you have been experiencing them for. They will also go over your medical history and ask questions about the mental health history of your family as well. The specialist will then consider all the information collected from various sources and determine an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment process you will be required to complete tests that are designed to evaluate your symptoms and determine their impact on your daily activities. You may be asked to complete questionnaires regarding your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests such as puzzles or timed exercises. They also consider any other comorbid conditions that you may be suffering from, as many of these can present similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
The assessment will also include an interview with someone who knows you well - for example, a family member, partner or 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 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 only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic treatment plan, as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD might have difficulty obtaining an assessment. The first step is to obtain a private assessment by a specialist physician who will be able to confirm or deny the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if there are other mental health conditions that might explain your symptoms or whether they are caused by medications.
Once the assessment is completed the doctor will review the results and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Based on the requirements of each person you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs which help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance brain's natural chemical messages, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a significant role in the development of attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies that reduce frustration and help them manage time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD might also benefit from dietary modifications that improve their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, especially when they belong to an ethnic minority. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD is like. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or to be denied treatment.
Finding affordable treatment and evaluations can be challenging, especially if you do not have insurance. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take the cost into account. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans and have residents or interns in training who offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They don't realize that their problems with planning, organizing and completing tasks can lead to problems at work or relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to be unable to comprehend the effects of their ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform at a lower level than they could. However, these can lead to other problems, such as depression, anxiety or alcohol or drug addiction.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to access NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Others pay to access private healthcare, but have no assurance that their doctor will agree to a 'shared care agreement' that will allow patients to return to the NHS for follow up treatment following a private diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private therapy, medication, or even more costly coaching services.
It is important to ensure that any health professional you're considering working with has a solid track of experience working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can look up their website or contact them 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).
It is crucial to select the appropriate psychiatrist or therapy since they are the ones who will prescribe medication if 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.
When choosing a therapist or psychiatrist, it website is important to be aware of your personal preferences. Some people might be more comfortable working with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or ethnicity. You may also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with kink clients.