How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is unable to diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private companies for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided unreliable assessments. This has sparked controversy and concern over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You will need to see a psychiatrist for a full examination to be diagnosed with ADHD. While some people get their diagnosis confirmed 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 treatment. This is particularly important as an official diagnosis is required for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also get access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three most common signs of ADHD. While everyone will show some of these traits occasionally, those with ADHD tend to display them to a much more severe degree than others. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, unable to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also include trouble with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior can include reckless purchases without considering the consequences, or rushing to situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD can be identified by a lack of focus, procrastination, missing deadlines, or a lack of ability to plan ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.
While many adults feel apprehensive about seeking an ADHD diagnosis, it's vital to seek one in order to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It will also help you understand your symptoms and find strategies and tools to overcome them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process involves a discussion about your symptoms and how they affect your life, the taking of the DIVA online exam and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel at ease.
The 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 expert in ADHD. This could be a specialist nurse, psychologist or psychiatrist (though a nurse cannot prescribe medication). It does not matter where they're in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, since it is their unique abilities and knowledge that define them as an expert.
A specialist will employ structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information about your symptoms as they can as they can, including how they affect your relationships and you and how long. They will also review your medical background and ask questions about the history of your family's mental health as well. The doctor will then review all the information collected from a variety of sources and determine an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment process you will be asked to complete tests that are designed to assess your symptoms and determine their impact on your daily life. You could be asked to fill out questionnaires regarding your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests like puzzles or timed exercises. They'll also look at any other disorders you may have, as many of them may have symptoms similar to those associated ADHD.
A family member, friend or partner will be questioned during the assessment. This is in order to obtain more corroborative evidence of your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they are impacting your relationships and work.
The specialist will be able to provide you with a thorough explanation of the results of the examination, as well as the treatment options available. This could include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The specialist will present their holistic plan and any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time getting a diagnosis. The first step is to conduct a private assessment by a specialist doctor, who will confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able to tell you if you have other mental health issues that may explain some of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are due to medication you're taking.
After the evaluation the doctor will go over the results and recommend the best treatment plan. Based on your requirements, this could mean the use of psychotherapy or medications. Most people with ADHD receive stimulant medications to help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance brain's natural chemical messages, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in the development of attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can also include strategies to reduce their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and tasks. Certain people with ADHD might also benefit from diet changes that can boost their energy levels.
Certain adults might have a difficult time obtaining the diagnosis of ADHD particularly if they belong to an ethnic minority. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD looks like. These groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment because of this.
Finding affordable treatment and evaluations isn't easy, especially if you do not have insurance. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics which take into the financial aspects. These clinics are also more likely to accept a variety of insurance plans, and have residents or interns 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 aren't aware that their issues with planning, organizing and completing tasks can lead to issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs are particularly likely to fail to understand the effects of their ADHD. They might develop strategies to cope that enable them to function at a level lower than their capabilities however, these strategies could lead to issues such as anxiety and depression, or addiction to alcohol or drugs.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are adhd assessment psychiatrist long waiting lists for NHS treatment, which makes it difficult for many to access the treatment they require. Some people pay for private healthcare, but they aren't sure if their GPs will be willing to sign 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 can lead to them being required to pay for CBT therapy and medication on their own and even more costly specialist coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're thinking of working with has worked with adults with ADHD. You can visit their website or phone number to confirm if they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also inquire if they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist is essential, since they will be the one who prescribes your medication in the event of need. 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 choosing a psychiatrist or therapist. Some people may feel more comfortable working with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or ethnicity. You might also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience working with clients with kinks.