14 Common Misconceptions About ADHD Private Diagnosis ADHD Private Diagnosis

A doctor can refer an adult suffering from ADHD to a private healthcare professional to receive an assessment. This can be done in person or online via video call.

The BBC's Panorama investigation has exposed clinics that give unreliable diagnoses. This puts patients at risk.

What is the outcome if I don't receive a diagnosis?

A diagnosis from a professional can grant you access to treatments and reduce feelings of self-doubt or confusion. A diagnosis can also help family members understand the condition, and how it affects the life of a person. This can lead to better relationships and a better understanding of ADHD.

In the UK, you should first speak to your GP about the reasons you think you have ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and refer you to an expert to be assessed. This process will be more efficient If you request your GP to use a scheme which allows you to select your own provider.


The next step is to conduct a thorough psychological evaluation, which includes an in-depth interview and psychological tests. It is a good idea to bring a family member with you to offer assistance. After your evaluation the specialist will present a clear diagnosis of ADHD and offer recommendations for treatment. The appointment should last for 2 sessions.

A private diagnosis specialist in adhd can help you avoid the pitfalls of trying to obtain a diagnose through the NHS. Healthcare professionals you work with must still follow evidence-based practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when providing care for you.

If your healthcare provider isn't able to determine that you suffer from ADHD They should be able to explain the reason. You may not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they may think that another condition would better explain your symptoms. This is perfectly fine and shouldn't stop you from seeking an alternative opinion.

One of the main reasons why adults struggle to get a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood by their GP or other medical experts. They may be told their issues are the result of not trying to do enough or are negligent or lazy. It can be frustrating, but keep in mind that these stereotypes are not supported by scientific research.

What happens if I don't agree with the diagnosis?

Many people with ADHD are unable to obtain an diagnosis. I Am Psychiatry are unaware of the condition and may not know the nature of the condition or how to diagnose it. Others might dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or believe that the person is hiding them. Some doctors are confused about the difference between ADHD depression (everyone is down at times) and anxiety (which may have similar symptoms).

In some cases medical professionals who are not familiar with ADHD might confuse the person's behavior with that of their uncontrolled ADHD or believe that the patient suffers from depression or anxiety as a result of their unmanaged ADHD. Women suffering from ADHD may be difficult to diagnose because their symptoms tend to be more subtle and difficult to recognize. This confusion can lead to inappropriate treatment of symptoms with antidepressants and other medications that are not helpful in treating ADHD.

Some private assessment providers require a letter of recommendation from your GP to set up an appointment. This is not always straightforward, as NHS GPs can bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred to GPs and then promptly batted back by doctors) on bogus grounds.

The GP will ask you questions about your lifestyle and how ADHD symptoms impact it. Depending on the provider the questions could be about your work, home and family. They will also discuss the various strengths and types of medication that are available to treat ADHD, and what may be most suitable for you. Generally, clinicians will try stimulant medication first but if this doesn't suit you then a nonstimulant medication such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride might be recommended.

If you are diagnosed and the doctor will send a letter to your GP with a document that spells out the diagnosis and how they recommend you should be treated. This is known as a "shared care agreement". Some GPs will accept these agreements however not all of them. If your GP does not agree with these agreements, you will still have to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I am diagnosed, but I do not want to receive medication or any other treatment?

Many of the signs of depression and anxiety are the same as the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, which is why a mental health professional can help you develop the right treatment plan to meet the specific needs of each person. Early treatment is crucial and may include talk therapy or a medication. It could also involve lifestyle changes. Children who suffer from ADHD could be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggressive behavior towards others, or serious violations of social norms and regulations at home, school or with friends.

What is the procedure if I decide to drive?

Since the DVLA is adamant about ADHD as a disability, having the condition can make it more difficult to obtain your driver's license. However, this is only when your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your day to day living. This is something that you should discuss with your doctor.

In the same way, having ADHD could affect how you drive particularly when your symptoms include inattention or unpredictable driving behavior. In the end, you might find that you struggle with organizing your car or remembering to take your medication before you get behind the wheel. If you're concerned about this, you can opt to travel with a partner or only drive when there's no other person in the car.

As you can see it, the Panorama programme gave a very biased negative opinion of private healthcare for ADHD assessments. We hear from many adults who receive a diagnosis without drug titration, but then must go back to their GP and stand at the back of the line to undergo an NHS assessment because they were 'sneaked' in to the private clinic. This doesn't just discredit the NHS, it adds to the stigma of a condition that many people believe they are judged by, even by their family members.