How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling under the burden of long NHS waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and will pay private providers to provide them.

A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that numerous private clinics were providing inaccurate assessments. This has caused controversy and concern over the quality of care patients receive.

Diagnosis

You will need to see an experienced psychiatrist for a complete examination to be diagnosed with ADHD. While some individuals have their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only person who can provide you with an official diagnosis that is recognized for the use of medication. This is important because a formal diagnosis is required to be able to use certain workplace protections, such as flexible working, as well as to be able to access NHS medication.

The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone exhibits certain characteristics on occasion, those who have ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, inability to remain still, or feeling restless, and may also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behaviour can include making decisions that are reckless, buying things without thinking about the consequences or local rushing into situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms may 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 having an ADHD diagnosis, it's vital to seek one to receive the support and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you to understand your symptoms and help you find ways and local methods to conquer them. After being diagnosed, many of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better.

The assessment process consists of an examination of your symptoms and how they affect your life, and the completion of the DIVA online exam, and an extensive interview. In your assessment our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are adept at helping you feel comfortable and at ease.

Assessment

You will need to undergo a thorough evaluation as an adult suffering from ADHD before being diagnosed. This assessment should be carried out 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 specific abilities and knowledge that define them as an expert.

A specialist will utilize structured interviewing techniques to gather as much information about your symptoms as is possible, 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 review your medical history. The specialist will then review all the information gathered from a variety of sources and formulate a diagnosis according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.

During the examination you will be asked to complete tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also determine the impact they have on your perform in your daily activities. You could be asked to fill out questionnaires regarding your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed tasks. 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.

The test will also include an interview with someone who knows you well, for example, someone from your family, a partner or friend. This is done to gather more evidence to support your ADHD symptoms and to see whether they affect your relationships and work.

The specialist will be able to give you a detailed account of the findings of the evaluation, as well as the options available for treatment. This may include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will discuss their recommended holistic plan for your care and will go over any medication that they think is appropriate.

Treatment

Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to get an assessment in private with a specialist doctor who will be able to confirm or denial the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that might explain some of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are related to the medication you are on.

After the assessment, your clinician will discuss the results and suggest an approach to treatment. Depending on your requirements, this could mean beginning psychotherapy or medication. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications which help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to boost the amount of brain's natural chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play an important role in the development of attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, most people find their symptoms improve quickly and effectively.

Adults with ADHD might benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This can also include practical strategies to reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD may benefit from dietary changes that can boost their energy levels.

Certain adults might be more difficult to get the diagnosis of ADHD particularly those who belong to minorities. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or be not treated.

Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment can be a challenge, particularly when your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospital-based clinics 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 provide treatment under mentor supervision.

Support

People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the impact of their condition on their lives. They are often unaware that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to fail to understand the effects of their adhd assessment for adults cost. They might develop strategies to cope that enable them to function lower than their capabilities but they can lead to problems such as depression and anxiety or the use of alcohol or drugs.

This story demonstrates the need for seeking out expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to access NHS care because of logjammed waiting lists. Some people pay for private healthcare but are not guaranteed that their doctors will sign an "shared care agreement" which would permit them to go back to the NHS for follow-up treatment following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. This could result in them having to paying for private treatment and CBT or even more expensive specialist coaching services.

You should always check that any health professional you are considering working with has a good track of experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. You can visit their website or call them to confirm if they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also inquire whether they've treated comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).

Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is crucial, as they will be the one who prescribes your medication if needed. Find a doctor with specialized training in adult adhd assessment private 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 choosing a therapist, or psychiatrist, it is important to consider your own personal preferences. Some people might be more comfortable working with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or cultural. It is also possible to work someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with the kink client.