How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to get answers and are willing to pay private providers to give them.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot private clinics are handing out inaccurate assessments. This has caused controversy and 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 thorough examination with psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is particularly important as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also be able to access NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, as well as inattention are the three most common symptoms of ADHD. While everyone will show some of these traits at times, people with ADHD are likely to show them to a much greater extent than others. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, unable to stay still or feel anxious, and can also be a problem with planning and organisation. 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 symptoms could include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks that require attention, avoiding deadlines, or finding it difficult to plan ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.
Although many adults are nervous about having an ADHD diagnosis, it's vital to seek one in order 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 your symptoms, and find strategies and tools that will aid you in conquering them. Once diagnosed, many of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves an open discussion about your symptoms and how they impact your life, completing the DIVA online test and a detailed clinical interview. During your assessment our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly adept at helping you feel relaxed and at ease.
The Assessment
As an adult with ADHD is required to undergo an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. This must be conducted by medical professionals who are a specialist within ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their place in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals in relation to their particular capabilities, experience, and knowledge that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will conduct an organized interview to gather as much information as is possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships, and how long you have been suffering from them for. They will also go over your medical history and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The doctor will then go over all the information collected from a variety sources and make a diagnose in accordance with the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the assessment process you will be asked to complete tests that are designed to evaluate your symptoms and adhd assessments uk determine their impact on your daily functioning. You may be asked to answer questions regarding your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed tasks. They'll also look at any other disorders you might have, since they may present symptoms that are similar to those triggered by ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed as part of the evaluation. This is in order to obtain more evidence to support your ADHD symptoms and to determine how they impact your relationships and work.
The expert you meet with will be able give you a comprehensive report detailing the outcome of your assessment and the available options for treatment, such as an agreement to share care with your GP for medication (where you pay only the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will present their holistic plan and any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Adults with ADHD may have difficulty getting a diagnosis. The first step is to have an assessment in private with a specialist doctor who will be able to confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health issues that might cause your symptoms, or if your symptoms are due to medication you're taking.
After the examination your doctor will review the results and recommend an approach to treatment. Based on the specific requirements of each person you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs that aid in reducing their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase the brain's natural chemical messages such as norepinephrine and dopamine which play a significant role in regulating attention and movements. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice that their symptoms get better quickly and efficiently.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. It can include strategies that can reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from dietary modifications, which can improve their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, especially if they are from an ethnic minority. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD looks. People from these groups are also more likely to be denied or misdiagnosed a treatment because of this.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment can be difficult, especially when your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics have specialized ADHD clinics that take finances into account. Additionally these clinics 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 with ADHD struggle to understand the effects of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware of the fact that their problems with planning, organizing and completing tasks could cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to not be able to recognize the effects of their ADHD. They might develop strategies to cope that allow them to function at a level below their potential but they can cause problems like anxiety and depression, or the use of alcohol or drugs.
This article highlights the need to seek an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many to receive the treatment they need. Some pay for private health care but aren't guaranteed that their GPs will agree to a "shared care agreement" that would allow them to return back to the NHS for follow-up treatment after a private diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Always ensure whether any health professional you are considering working with has a good track record of working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by looking at their website or by calling them to ensure they have the knowledge you require. You can also inquire whether they've treated comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Finding the right psychiatrist or therapist is essential, since they are the ones who will prescribe your medication if needed. Choose a doctor that 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.
It is also important to consider your personal preferences when selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist. For instance, some people will be more comfortable with an therapist who is their gender or culture. You might also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with the kink client.