How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a lot of patients due to the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to get answers and will pay private providers to provide them.

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

Diagnosis

In order to get diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full exam with a psychiatrist. While some people get their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only person who can give you a formally recognised diagnosis for medication. This is essential because a formal diagnosis is required to gain access to certain workplace protections, like flexible working and to get access to NHS medications.

Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three most common signs of ADHD. While everyone is likely to exhibit some of these traits occasionally, those who suffer from ADHD will often demonstrate these to a greater extent than others. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting, being unable to sit still or feeling restless, and may also have issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can involve making rash decisions, purchasing things without thinking about the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD is characterized by difficulty in staying focused, procrastination, missing deadlines or an inability ability to think ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.

Many adults are reluctant to get a diagnosis. However, it's essential to receive the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can help you understand your symptoms and provide strategies and tools to help you overcome them. Once diagnosed, many of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.

The assessment process involves an examination of your symptoms and their impact on your life, the completion of the DIVA online exam, and a detailed interview. During your examination our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience in diagnosing adults with ADHD and are extremely skilled at helping you to feel relaxed and at ease.

Assessment

You'll have to undergo a thorough 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 could be a specialist psychologist, nurse or psychiatrist (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, because it is their particular capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as a specialist.

A specialist will use an organized interview to collect as much information as is possible about your symptoms, how they impact your life and relationships and the length of time you've been experiencing them for. They will also go over your medical history and ask about your the history of your family's mental health as well. The doctor will then take into consideration all the information collected from various sources before determining a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.

During the test, you will be required to complete tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also determine their impact on how you function in your daily life. You might be asked to answer questions about your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests such as puzzles or timed exercises. They will also consider any other conditions you might be suffering from, as they may have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.

A private adhd testing family member, friend or partner will be questioned as part of the evaluation. This is to get further evidence to support your ADHD symptoms and to see whether they affect your relationships and work.

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

Treatment

Adults with ADHD might have a difficult time getting the diagnosis. The first step is to get an individual assessment with a specialist doctor who will be able to confirm or refuse the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. The doctor will also inform you if there are any other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms or if they are caused by medication.

Once the assessment is completed your doctor will then discuss the results with you and suggest a treatment plan. Based on your specific requirements, this could mean the use of psychotherapy or medications. Many people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to ease their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance brain's chemical signals, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which play an important role in attention and movements. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve quickly and effectively.

Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses primarily on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This could include strategies that can reduce their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and work. Some people with ADHD may benefit from dietary changes that can boost their energy levels.

Certain adults might be more difficult to get an diagnosis for ADHD, especially those who belong to an ethnic minority. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD appears to be. People from these groups are also more likely to be misdiagnosed or denied treatment because of this.

Finding affordable treatments and evaluations isn't easy, especially if you don't have insurance. Hospital-based clinics often offer specialized ADHD clinics which take into consideration financial concerns. Furthermore they are more likely to take part in a range of different insurance plans, and have interns and residents in training who can offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.

Support

People suffering from ADHD often struggle to recognize the impact their conditions have on their lives. They are often unaware that their issues in organising, planning and completing tasks cause problems at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to be unable to comprehend the impact of their ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function below their potential, but these can lead to problems such as anxiety and depression as well as alcohol or drug abuse.

This story emphasizes the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to get NHS healthcare due to a sluggish waiting lists. Others pay to access private healthcare, but there is no assurance that their doctor will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' that allows patients to return 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 costly coaching services.

Always check if the health professional you're thinking of working with has expertise working with adults with ADHD. You can visit their website or call them to confirm if they have the experience and expertise required. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that coexist with ADHD).

Choosing the right psychiatrist or therapist is crucial, as they are the ones who will prescribe your medication if needed. Find a doctor who has specialized training on 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 must also consider your own personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or culture. It is also possible to work someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with kink clients.