How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling under the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to get answers and will pay private companies to provide them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving inaccurate assessments. This has led to concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a thorough examination by psychiatrist. While some individuals have their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only one who can give you an official diagnosis that is recognized for the use of medication. This is especially important since the need for a formal diagnosis is essential in order to access 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 primary symptoms of ADHD. While everyone is likely to exhibit some of these traits occasionally, those with ADHD are likely to show these traits to a more severe degree than others. Hyperactive behavior can include the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It can also indicate problems with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can involve making rash decisions, purchasing items without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms can include trouble staying focused on work, procrastinating, missing 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.
Many adults are hesitant about having a diagnosis, it is vital to seek one in order to receive the support and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can help you understand your symptoms and provide strategies and tools that will help you overcome them. Many of our patients tell us that once they have been diagnosed, their lives change for the better.
The process of assessment will include a conversation about your symptoms and how they impact your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test and an extensive interview with a clinical psychologist. During your examination our psychiatrists have years of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly adept at helping you feel relaxed and at ease.
The Assessment
You will need to undergo an extensive evaluation as an adult suffering from ADHD before you are diagnosed. This needs to be carried out by a healthcare professional who is an expert in ADHD. This can be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses cannot prescribe medication). It does not matter how high their position in the pecking order of healthcare professionals when it comes to their specific abilities, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A doctor will conduct an organized interview to gather as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships and the length of time you've been experiencing them for. They will also inquire about your family's mental health history and examine your medical history. The specialist will then review all the information gathered from various sources and formulate a diagnosis based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the process of assessment you will be asked to complete tests designed to evaluate your symptoms and assess the impact they have on your daily functioning. You could be asked to complete questionnaires regarding your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests such as puzzles or timed exercises. They will also consider any other disorders you may have, as many of them may have symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with someone who knows you well, for example, an individual from your family, partner or friend. This is in order to obtain more corroborative evidence of your ADHD symptoms and to see if they are impacting your relationships and work.
The person you speak to will be able to give you a comprehensive report detailing the outcome of your assessment and the options available for treatment, such as a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will discuss their holistic recommendations for your treatment and will discuss any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD may have difficulty getting an assessment. The first step is a private examination by a specialist doctor, who will confirm or denial a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able to inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that might cause your symptoms, or if the symptoms are caused by the medications you're taking.
Once the assessment is completed the doctor will review the results and suggest a treatment plan. Based on your specific requirements, this could mean beginning psychotherapy or medication. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulants to help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase the brain's natural chemical messages like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a significant role in the development of attention and movement. Many people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This could also include strategies to lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and assignments. Some people suffering from ADHD may benefit from dietary changes, which can improve their energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, especially if they are from the minority group. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. These groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied a treatment because of this.
Finding affordable treatment and evaluations can be challenging, especially in the event that you do not have insurance. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics that take account finances. Additionally they are more likely to participate in a range of different insurance plans and have residents and interns in training who are able to provide treatment under mentor guidance.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to comprehend the effects of their condition on their lives. private adhd assessment london don't always realize that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks cause problems at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to fail to understand the impact of their ADHD. private adhd assessment might develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these may cause other issues like depression, anxiety or alcohol or drug abuse.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Many people are struggling to access NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private healthcare, but have no guarantee that their GP will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' that will allow them to go back to the NHS for follow-up treatment following an official diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
Always ensure that any health professional you're considering working with has a good track record of working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can do this by looking up their website, or contacting them to ensure that they have the experience you require. You can also check whether they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
It is important to choose the right psychiatrist or therapy, as they will be the ones who will prescribe medication when needed. Find a doctor with special training in 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.
You should also consider your personal preferences when selecting a psychiatrist or therapist. For example, some people will be more comfortable with an therapist who is their gender or ethnicity. It is also possible to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with clients with kinks.