Why ADHD Diagnosis Private Is Tougher Than You Think

How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

The NHS is unable to diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and willing to pay private firms for their services.

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

Diagnosis

You'll need to visit an Psychiatrist for a thorough examination to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only person who can give a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is especially important since the need for a formal diagnosis is essential to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also gain access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).

The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories that include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone displays certain traits occasionally however, those with ADHD often show these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactive behaviour includes fidgeting, being unable to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also have issues with planning and organisation. Impulsive behaviour can include making reckless decisions, buying things without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD symptoms can include trouble staying focused on tasks that require attention, avoiding 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.

Although many adults are nervous about seeking an assessment, it is imperative to do so to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can help you understand the signs and symptoms, and help you find strategies and tools to assist you in overcoming these. Once diagnosed, many of our patients claim that their lives have changed for the better.

The assessment process involves a conversation about your symptoms and how they affect your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test and an in-depth interview with a clinical psychologist. In your assessment, our psychiatrists have years of experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are highly skilled at helping you to feel at ease and comfortable.

Assessment

You'll need to go through an exhaustive assessment as an adult with 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 does not matter where they're in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, as it is their unique skills and knowledge that defines them as specialist.

A specialist will conduct an organized interview to gather as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they impact your relationships and life, and how long you've been suffering from them for. They will also inquire about your family's mental health history and look over your medical history. The doctor will then review all the information gathered from various sources before determining an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.

During the assessment, you will be required to take tests that are designed to assess your symptoms. These tests will also reveal their impact on how you perform in your daily activities. You may be asked to answer questions regarding your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests like puzzles or timed activities. They'll also take into consideration any other comorbid disorders that you might be suffering from, as they may present symptoms similar to those associated ADHD.

A friend, family member or partner will be interviewed during the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine if they affect your work or relationships.

The expert you meet with will be able to give you a detailed report outlining the results of your evaluation and the options available for treatment, such as a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you pay just the NHS prescription cost). The specialist will present their holistic plan and any medication they believe to be appropriate.

Treatment

The process of determining if you have ADHD is not easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to conduct a private assessment by a specialist doctor, who will confirm or refuse a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. 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 your symptoms are caused by the medication you are on.

After the assessment, your clinician will discuss the results and recommend a plan of treatment. Based on the specific needs of each individual you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD receive stimulant medications to ease their symptoms. These medicines are believed to increase the availability of the brain's natural chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play an important role in the development of attention and movement. When the medication is used regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.

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

Some adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, especially in the case of the minority group. Some medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. They are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or to be refused treatment.

Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly in the event that you don't have insurance. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take website financial concerns into account. Additionally these clinics are more likely to take part in a variety of insurance plans and have interns and residents in training who can offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.

Support

People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the impact their condition has on their lives. They aren't aware that their difficulties with organizing, planning and completing tasks could cause problems at work or relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to not understand the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function below their potential. However, these can lead to other problems like anxiety, depression and alcohol or drug dependence.

This story emphasizes the importance of seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment, which makes it difficult for many to get the treatment they need. Some people pay for private healthcare but aren't guaranteed that their doctors will sign the terms of a "shared care agreement" which would permit them to return back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. This can lead to them having to continue to pay for private medication and CBT therapy and even more costly specialist coaching services.

Always verify that the health professional you're thinking of working with has experience working with adults with ADHD. You can look up their website or contact them to confirm they have the experience and expertise required. You can also find out if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).

Choosing the right psychiatrist or therapist is important, because they will be the one who will prescribe your medication, if required. 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.

When choosing a therapist, or psychiatrist, you should also be aware of your personal preferences. Some people may feel more comfortable working with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with clients with kinks.