How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

Many patients seeking an assessment 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.

A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided inaccurate assessments. This has caused controversy and concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.

Diagnosis

You will need to see an experienced psychiatrist for a complete evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. 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 treatment. This is crucial as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to be able to access NHS medication (which is only prescribed by psychiatrists).

The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone displays some of these characteristics on occasion, those who have ADHD typically exhibit them in a more extreme form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, being unable to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also include trouble with planning and organisation. Insane behavior may include making rash purchases without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty staying focused on tasks and putting off 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 having an ADHD diagnosis, it's vital to seek one in order to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you recognize your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to help you overcome them. Once diagnosed, many of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.

The process of assessment will include an interview about your symptoms and how they impact your life, completing the DIVA online test, and an in-depth clinical interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel comfortable.

Assessment

You will need to undergo an exhaustive examination as an adult suffering from ADHD before you can be diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, because it is their unique abilities and knowledge that define them as specialist.

A specialist will utilize structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information about your symptoms as possible and how they impact your relationships with others and how long. They will also ask about the mental health history of your family members and review your medical history. The doctor will then go over all the information collected from a variety sources and determine a diagnosis according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.

During the assessment you will be asked to take tests designed to assess your symptoms. These tests will also reveal their impact on how you function in your daily life. You could be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests like puzzles or timed exercises. They will also consider any other conditions you may be suffering from, as many of these can present similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.

A family member, friend or partner will be adhd assessment private uk interviewed as part of the evaluation. This is in order to obtain more confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to see how they impact your relationships and work.

The expert you meet with will be able give you a comprehensive report detailing the findings of your examination and what options are available for treatment, including a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you only pay the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will present their holistic plan and any medication they believe to be appropriate.

Treatment

Adults suffering from ADHD may have difficulty getting an assessment. The first step is to have a private assessment by a specialist physician who will confirm or refuse a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health issues that could be the cause of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are due to medication you are on.

After the examination the doctor will go over the results and recommend a plan of treatment. Depending on the requirements of each person you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. The majority of people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that help to improve their symptoms. These medicines are believed to increase the availability of the brain's natural chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which play a key part in regulating attention and movement. Most people notice that their symptoms improve rapidly when they take the medication on a regular basis.

Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies that reduce frustration and improve their ability manage time and manage their tasks. Some people with ADHD also benefit from diet changes that can improve their energy levels and focus.

Some adults are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, particularly in the case of the minority group. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. People from these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied a treatment because of this.

Finding affordable treatment and evaluations isn't easy, especially if you do not have insurance. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take financial concerns into consideration. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans and have interns or residents in training who can provide treatment under mentor supervision.

Support

People with ADHD struggle to understand the effects of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks lead to problems at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to overlook the effects of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform below their potential. However, these can result in other problems like anxiety, depression or alcohol or drug abuse.

This story highlights the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to access NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Some people pay for private healthcare but are not guaranteed that their GPs will agree to a "shared care agreement" which would permit patients to return to the NHS to receive follow-up care after a personal diagnosis of ADHD. This can lead to them being required to pay for CBT therapy and medication on their own or even more expensive specialist coaching services.

Always ensure that any health professional you're considering working with has a good track experience working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by checking up their website, or contacting them to make sure that they have the experience you require. You can also check whether they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist 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 who has completed specialized 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.

When selecting a therapist or psychiatrist, it is important to be aware of your personal preferences. Some people might be more comfortable working with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or cultural. It is also possible to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with clients with kinks.