How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling with the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing inaccurate assessments. This has led to debate and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to undergo a full examination with a psychiatrist. Although some people have their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only professional who can give you an official diagnosis for the use of medication. This is particularly important as a formal diagnosis is necessary for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone has certain traits occasionally, those who have ADHD often show these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactive behavior can include fidgeting or being restless. It can also indicate problems with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can involve making decisions that are reckless, buying things without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentive ADD symptoms could include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks, procrastinating, missing deadlines or having trouble 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 getting a diagnosis, it is essential that you do so to get the support and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can help you recognize your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to help you overcome these. Many of our patients report that after being diagnosed, their lives change to the better.
The process of assessment involves a discussion about your symptoms and how they impact your life, the completion of the DIVA online exam and an in-depth interview. During your examination, our psychiatrists will have extensive experience in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and are highly adept at helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
Assessment
You'll have to undergo an exhaustive examination as an adult suffering from ADHD before you are diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychiatrist, psychologist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their place in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals as it comes down to their particular abilities, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will employ structured interviews to collect as much information about your symptoms as possible as they can, including how they affect your relationships with others and how long. They will also inquire about the mental health history of your family members and examine your medical history. The doctor will then go over all the information gathered from a variety sources and determine a diagnosis in accordance with the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the examination you will be asked to complete tests that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact of your symptoms on how you function in your daily life. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots, as well as tests such as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They'll also take into consideration any other disorders you might be suffering from, as many of them may have symptoms similar to those associated ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with a person who is familiar with you - for example, a family member, partner or a friend. This is to get further confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they are impacting your relationships and work.
The specialist you meet with will be able to give you a comprehensive report detailing the results of your evaluation and what options are available for treatment, including a shared care agreement with your GP for medications (where you pay only the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will present their holistic plan and any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to have an assessment in private by a specialist physician who can confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. The doctor will also be able inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that might cause your symptoms, or if your symptoms are related to the medications you're taking.
After the evaluation is completed the doctor will review your results and recommend the best treatment plan. Depending on the needs of each individual you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications which help improve their symptoms. These medicines are believed to boost the amount of brain's natural chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play an important role in attention and movement. The majority of people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication regularly.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies that reduce frustration and improve their ability manage time and tasks. Some people with ADHD can also benefit from diet changes that improve their energy levels.
Certain adults might be more difficult to get the diagnosis of ADHD particularly when they are part of a minority group. 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 a challenge, particularly if you don't have insurance. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take financial concerns into consideration. Additionally they are more likely to be enrolled in a variety of insurance plans and have residents and interns in training who are able to provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware of the fact that their difficulties with planning, organizing and completing tasks could cause problems at work or relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely read more to not understand the impact of ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function below their potential. However, these may lead to other problems like depression, anxiety or alcohol or drug dependence.
This story demonstrates the need to seek expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to access NHS care because of logjammed waiting lists. Some pay for private healthcare, but they aren't sure if their GPs will agree to the terms of a "shared care agreement" that will allow patients to return to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. This could result in them having to continue paying for private treatment and CBT - or even more expensive specialist coaching services.
Always ensure that any health professional you're considering working with has a solid track experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. You can visit their website or call them to confirm if they have the experience and expertise required. You can also ask whether they've treated comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
It is crucial to select the best psychiatrist or therapy since they are the ones who will prescribe medication when 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.
You should also consider your personal preferences when choosing a psychiatrist or therapist. For instance, some people are more comfortable with a psychiatrist who is a member of their gender or culture. You might also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with clients with kinks.