A Guide To ADHD Diagnosis Private From Beginning To End

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 patients are desperate to receive answers and are willing to pay private companies to provide them.
However Info has suggested that a lot of these private clinics provide inaccurate assessments. This has led to concern and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
You will need to see a psychiatrist for a full assessment in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only person who can provide a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is especially important since an official diagnosis is required for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to be able to access NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by an Psychiatrist).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention are the three main symptoms of ADHD. While everyone exhibits certain traits on occasion, those who suffer from ADHD are likely to show them to a much more extensive degree than other people. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting or being restless. It may also include problems with planning and organization. Impulsive behaviour can include making rash decisions, purchasing things without thinking about the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms can include trouble staying focused on work, 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.
Many adults are reluctant to get a diagnosis. However, this is essential to receive the support and treatment that you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can help you recognize your symptoms and provide strategies and tools to help you overcome these. Many of our patients report that once they have been diagnosed, their lives alter to the better.
The process of assessment involves a discussion about your symptoms and how they affect your life, the taking of the DIVA online exam, and a detailed interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel at ease.
Assessment
You will need to undergo an extensive evaluation as an adult suffering from ADHD before you are diagnosed. This must be carried out by medical professionals who are a specialist in ADHD. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their place in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals when it comes to their particular skills, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist.
A specialist will conduct a structured interview to gather as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they affect your life and relationships and how long you've been experiencing them for. They will also go over your medical history and ask questions about family mental health history as well. The specialist will then review all the information collected from a variety of sources and formulate a diagnosis in accordance with the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the process of assessment you will be required to complete tests that are designed to measure your symptoms and determine their impact on your daily life. You may be asked to answer questions regarding your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests, such as puzzles or timed activities. They will also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you might be suffering from as many of these can present similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
The test will also include an interview with a person who knows you well, for example, a family member, partner or friend. This is in order to obtain more confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to see if they are impacting your relationships or work.
The expert you meet with will be able give you a comprehensive report detailing the results of your evaluation and the available options for treatment, including an agreement to share care with your GP for prescriptions (where you only pay the NHS prescription charge). The doctor will outline their holistic treatment plan, as well as any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to have an assessment in private by a specialist physician who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor can also inform you if there are any other mental health conditions that might explain your symptoms or whether they are caused by medications.
Once the test is complete the doctor will review the results and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Based on your requirements, this could mean beginning psychotherapy or medication. Many people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to boost the amount of brain's chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial part in regulating attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from therapy focusing on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies that reduce frustration and improve their ability manage time and tasks. Certain people with ADHD can also benefit from dietary modifications that improve their energy levels.
Certain adults might have a harder time getting the diagnosis of ADHD particularly when they are part of a minority group. This is because certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD looks like. These groups are also more likely to be denied or misdiagnosed a treatment due to this.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment isn't easy, especially when your insurance doesn't cover it. A lot of hospitals offer ADHD clinics which take into the financial aspects. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans, and have residents or interns in training who can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the effects their condition has on their lives. They don't always realize that their issues with planning, organising and completing tasks cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to not be able to recognize the effects of their ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that enable them to function at a level lower than their capabilities but they could lead to issues such as anxiety and depression as well as the use of alcohol or drugs.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many people to get the treatment they need. Others pay to access private healthcare, but have no assurance that their doctor will agree to a 'shared care agreement' that allows them to go back to the NHS for follow up treatment following an official diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're considering working with has worked with adults with ADHD. You can check their website or contact them to confirm that they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also ask whether they have treated comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is essential, since they will be the one who prescribes your medication, if required. Find a doctor with special 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.
You should also think about your personal preferences when selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist. For example, some people will be more comfortable with someone who is a member of their gender or cultural. You might also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with kink clients.