How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot of these private clinics are handing out unreliable health assessments. This has sparked controversy and concern over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to undergo a full exam with a psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only person who can provide you with an official diagnosis for the use of medication. This is crucial because a valid diagnosis will be required to access certain workplace protections, including flexible working, as well as to access NHS medication.
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, as well as inattention are the three main signs of ADHD. While everyone displays some of these characteristics on occasion however, those with ADHD typically exhibit them in a more extreme form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, being unable to stay still or feel anxious, and can also include trouble with planning and organization. Impulsive behaviour can include making decisions that are reckless, buying things without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD can be characterized 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.
Although many adults are nervous about seeking an assessment, it is essential that you do so in order to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD could bring relief and clarity in your life. It can help you recognize your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to aid you in conquering them. Once diagnosed, many of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves an examination of your symptoms and how they affect your life, the taking of the DIVA online exam, and a detailed interview. During your assessment our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are adept at helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
The Assessment
If you are an adult with ADHD you'll need undergo an exhaustive assessment before being diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It does not matter what their rank in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals in relation to their specific capabilities, experience, and knowledge that make them a specialist.
A specialist will use structured interviewing to gather as much information about your symptoms as they can and how they impact you and your relationships and how long. They will also go over your medical history and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The specialist will then consider all the information collected from various sources before determining an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment, you will be required to complete tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact they have on your function in your daily life. You may be asked to answer questions regarding your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests, such as puzzles or timed exercises. They'll also take into consideration 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 to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine if they affect your work and relationships.
The expert you meet with will be able give you a detailed report outlining the outcome of your assessment and the available options for treatment, including the possibility of a shared care agreement with your GP for prescriptions (where you pay just the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will explain their recommended holistic plan for your treatment and will discuss any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
The process of determining if you have ADHD can be challenging for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to have a private evaluation by a specialist doctor, who can either confirm or refuse the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor will also inform you if there are other mental health conditions that might explain your symptoms or whether they are caused by medication.
After the assessment your doctor will review the results and recommend a plan of treatment. Based on the specific requirements of each patient you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that help to improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase the supply of the brain's chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in the development of attention and movement. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and effectively.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to lessen frustration and improve their ability to manage time and manage their tasks. Some people with ADHD also benefit from dietary changes that can help to improve their energy levels and concentration.
Certain adults might be more difficult to get an diagnosis for ADHD particularly when they are part of a minority group. Some medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD looks. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or to be refused treatment.
Finding affordable treatments and evaluations can be challenging, especially in the event that you don't have insurance. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take the cost into consideration. Furthermore, these clinics are more likely to take part in a variety of insurance plans and have interns and residents in training who can provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to comprehend the impact of their condition on their lives. They don't realize that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks can lead to difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to not understand the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform at a lower level than they could. However, these may cause other issues like depression, anxiety, or drug or alcohol dependence.
This story highlights the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many to access the treatment they need. Others pay to access private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will sign a'shared care agreement' that will allow them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment after receiving a private diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Always verify that the health professional you're thinking of working with has experience working with adults who have ADHD. You can look up their website or phone number to confirm if they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also ask whether they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist 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 here (CHADD) organization to find an expert in your area.
You should also think about your personal preferences when selecting a psychiatrist or therapist. For instance, some people are more comfortable with an therapist who is of their gender or cultural. It is also possible to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with the kink client.