How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Many patients seeking a diagnosis of ADHD are struggling with the pressure of a sluggish NHS waiting lists. cost of private adhd assessment uk are in desperate need of answers and willing to pay private companies for their services.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving inaccurate assessments. This has led to debate and concerns about the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full assessment by a psychiatrist. Although some people have their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a psychiatrist is the only one who can provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis for treatment. This is crucial as an official diagnosis is required for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention are the three primary signs of ADHD. While everyone has some of these characteristics occasionally but those with ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. Hyperactivity can manifest as fidgeting or being restless. It can also indicate problems with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive purchases without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms may include difficulty keeping a focus on tasks, 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 hesitant to pursue an assessment. However, it's important to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can help you understand the signs and symptoms, and help you find strategies and tools to help you overcome them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients report that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process consists of an examination of 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 highly skilled to make you feel at ease.
Assessment
You'll need to go through an exhaustive evaluation as an adult suffering from ADHD before you are diagnosed. This needs to be performed by medical professionals who are a specialist within ADHD. This can be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It does not matter where they're in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, as it is their unique capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as a specialist.
A specialist will employ structured interviewing techniques to collect as much information on your symptoms as is possible and how they impact you and your relationships and how long they last. 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 go over all the information gathered from a variety sources and formulate a diagnosis in accordance with the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the assessment you will be asked to complete tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also determine their impact on how you perform in your daily life. You could be asked to fill out questionnaires about your symptoms including memory, inkblots and memory and other tests like puzzles or timed exercises. They will also take into account any other conditions you may be suffering from, as they may have similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD.
A friend, family member or partner will be questioned as part of the evaluation. This is done to gather more evidence to support your ADHD symptoms and to determine how they impact your relationships and work.
The person you speak to will be able give you a thorough report that outlines the results of your evaluation and the available options for treatment, such as an agreement to share care with your GP for medications (where you only pay the NHS prescription charge). The specialist will present their holistic plan as well as any medication they believe to be appropriate.
Treatment
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to conduct a private examination by a specialist physician who will confirm or deny the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with extensive knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor can also tell you if you have other mental health issues that might cause your symptoms, or if your symptoms are caused by the medication you're taking.
After the assessment, your clinician will discuss the results and recommend a plan of treatment. Based on your requirements, this could mean starting medication or psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD take stimulant medication to alleviate their symptoms. These medications are believed to boost the availability of the brain's chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in the development of attention and movement. When the medication is used regularly, most people find their symptoms improve quickly and effectively.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses primarily on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This could include strategies to reduce stress and help them manage time and manage their tasks. Some people with ADHD may also benefit from dietary modifications that can boost their energy levels.
Certain adults are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, especially when they belong to a minority group. Certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed, or even not treated.
Finding low-cost assessments and treatments can be a challenge, particularly in the event that your insurance does not cover it. However, many hospitals have special ADHD clinics that take finances into account. Furthermore these clinics are more likely to be enrolled in a range of different insurance plans, and have interns and residents in training that can offer treatment under the guidance of a mentor.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the effects of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware of the fact 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 not be able to recognize the impact of their ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function at a level lower than their capabilities, but these could lead to issues such as depression and anxiety or addiction to alcohol or drugs.
This article highlights the need for seeking out an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for many people to receive the treatment they require. Some pay for private healthcare, but there is no guarantee that their GP will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' that will allow them to return to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following an individual diagnosis of ADHD. They could be required to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more costly coaching services.
You should always check whether any health professional you're considering working with has a solid track experience working with adults with ADHD. You can visit their website or call them to confirm if they have the knowledge and experience
