The Reasons ADHD Diagnosis Private Is Harder Than You Imagine
How to Get a Private ADHD DiagnosisThe NHS cannot diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients due to the long waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and are willing to pay private providers for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving unreliable assessments. This has caused controversy and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full examination by psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a formal diagnosis for treatment. This is important because a formal diagnosis is required to access certain workplace protections, such as flexible working, and to access NHS medication.
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone will show certain traits at times, people who suffer from ADHD tend to display them to a much greater extent than others. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, unable to remain still, or feeling restless, and may also be a problem with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior may include making decisions that are reckless, buying things without thinking about the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms can include trouble keeping a focus 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 having an ADHD diagnosis, it's imperative to do so in order to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can also help you understand your symptoms and find strategies and tools to deal with them. Many of our patients tell us that once they have been diagnosed, their lives change for the better.
The assessment process involves an open discussion of your symptoms and how they impact your life, the taking of the DIVA online test and an extensive interview. During your assessment our psychiatrists will have a wealth of experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are extremely adept at helping you feel comfortable and at ease.
The Assessment
As an adult with ADHD you'll need undergo an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. This must be carried out by medical professionals who are an expert in ADHD. This could be a specialist psychologist, nurse or psychiatrist (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It does not matter where they're in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, as it is their particular skills and knowledge that defines them as a specialist.
A specialist will employ structured interviewing techniques to gather as much information about your symptoms as possible and how they impact you and your relationships, and for how long. They will also review your medical history and ask about your family mental health history as well. The doctor will then take into consideration the information gathered from various sources and determine a diagnosis based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment, you will be required to take tests that are that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also assess their impact on how you function in your daily life. You could be asked to answer questions about your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests like puzzles or timed activities. They'll also look at any other disorders you might be suffering from, as they may present symptoms similar to those associated ADHD.
The assessment will also include an interview with someone who knows you well, like an individual from your family, partner or a friend. This is in order to obtain more corroborative evidence of your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they are impacting your relationships or work.
The expert will be able give you a detailed account of the outcome of the examination, as well as the options available for treatment. This could include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic plan as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
The process of determining if you have ADHD is not easy for adults with the condition. The first step is to have an assessment in private by a specialist physician who will be able to confirm or refuse the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able to inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that could cause your symptoms, or if the symptoms are caused by the medication you're taking.
After the assessment, your clinician will discuss the results and suggest the best treatment plan. Based on your needs, this may involve beginning psychotherapy or medication. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medication that help to improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to boost the amount of brain's chemical messengers, like norepinephrine and dopamine which play an important role in attention and movement. When the medication is used regularly, the majority of people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.
Adults with ADHD might benefit from a therapy program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. It can include strategies that can reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and assignments. Certain people with ADHD also benefit from dietary changes that can improve their concentration and energy levels.
Some adults may have a harder time getting the diagnosis of ADHD particularly when they are part of minorities. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD looks. They are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or be denied treatment.
Finding low-cost evaluations and treatment isn't easy, especially when your insurance doesn't cover it. Hospital-based clinics often offer specialized ADHD clinics which take into the financial aspects. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans and have residents or interns in training who can offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD struggle to understand the effects their condition has on their lives. They aren't aware that their problems with organizing, planning and completing tasks could cause difficulties 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 strategies for coping that enable them to function at a level below their capacity however, these strategies can cause problems such as depression and anxiety as well as the use of alcohol or drugs.
This story emphasizes the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS care, which makes it difficult for many to receive the treatment they require. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but have no assurance that their physician will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' that will allow 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 medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
It is important to ensure that any health professional you're thinking of working with has a positive track of experience working with adults who suffer from ADHD. You can do this by looking on their website or calling them to confirm they have the knowledge you require. You can also ask if they have dealt with can i get a private adhd assessment comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD).
Choosing the right psychiatrist or therapist is essential, since they are the ones who will prescribe 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.
When choosing a therapist, or psychiatrist, you should also consider your own personal preferences. For example, some people are more comfortable with a psychiatrist who is a member of their gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+ allied or has experience working with kink-allied clients.