Why ADHD Diagnosis Private Is Your Next Big Obsession? 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 are in desperate need of answers and are willing to pay private companies for their services.

However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many private clinics are handing out unreliable health assessments. This has caused concerns and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.

Diagnosis

To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a thorough examination with a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only person who can provide a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is particularly important as an official diagnosis is required in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also to get access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by psychiatrists).


The symptoms of ADHD can be classified into three major categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone is likely to exhibit some of these traits at times, people who suffer from ADHD are likely to show them to a much greater extent than others. The signs of hyperactivity include fidgeting or being agitated. It may also include problems with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive decisions, buying items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD can be identified by difficulty staying focused or concentrating, procrastination, a lack of deadlines or an inability ability 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 hesitant to pursue a diagnosis. However, this is important to receive the support and treatment that you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can help you understand your symptoms, and find strategies and tools that will aid you in conquering these. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients claim that their lives have changed for the better.

The assessment process involves a discussion about your symptoms and how they impact your life, the taking of the DIVA online test and an extensive interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel at ease.

The Assessment

You will need to undergo an extensive examination as an adult suffering from ADHD before you can be diagnosed. This must be performed by medical professionals who are a specialist in ADHD. This can be a specialist nurse, psychologist or psychiatrist (though nurses cannot prescribe medication). It doesn't matter where they are in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, since it is their particular skills and knowledge that defines them as an expert.

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

During the assessment, you will be required to take tests that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact they have on your function in your daily life. You may be asked to answer questions about your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests like puzzles or timed activities. They will also take into account any other comorbid conditions that you might be suffering from as they may have similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.

A family member, friend or partner will be interviewed as part of the evaluation. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and also to determine if they affect your work and relationships.

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

Treatment

Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to have a private assessment by a specialist physician who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists who have extensive knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that might explain some of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are due to medication you are on.

Once the test is complete the doctor will review the results with you and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. Depending on the needs of each individual you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Many people suffering from ADHD are prescribed stimulants to alleviate their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase brain's chemical signals, like norepinephrine and dopamine, which play an important role in the development of attention and movement. The majority of people notice that their symptoms get better when they take the medication regularly.

Adults with ADHD might benefit from a treatment program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This can include practical strategies that reduce frustration and help them manage time and work. Certain people with ADHD also benefit from dietary changes, which can aid in improving their concentration and energy levels.

Some adults may have a harder time getting an diagnosis for ADHD particularly if they belong to an ethnic minority. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD appears to be. These people are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or to be denied treatment.

Finding affordable treatment and evaluations can be challenging, especially when you do not have insurance. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take finances into consideration. Additionally, these clinics are more likely to participate in a variety of insurance plans and have interns and residents in training who are able to provide treatment under mentor supervision.

Support

People with ADHD struggle to understand the effects of their condition on their lives. They don't realize that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs are especially likely to fail to understand the impact of their ADHD. They might develop coping mechanisms that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these can lead to other problems, such as anxiety, depression or alcohol or drug abuse.

This article highlights the need to seek expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are struggling to get NHS care because of logjammed waiting lists. Others pay to access private healthcare, but there is no assurance that their physician 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 could be required to continue 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 who have ADHD. You can look up their website or call them to confirm they have the knowledge and experience required. You can also inquire whether they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).

It is important to choose the right psychiatrist or therapy, because they will be the ones who prescribe medication if necessary. Find a doctor who has specialized 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.

private adult adhd assessment uk is also important to consider your personal preferences when selecting the right therapist or psychiatrist. Some people may be more comfortable with a therapist or psychiatrist of their own gender or culture. It is also possible to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with kink-allied clients.