How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis<br /><br />The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients because of the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to receive answers and will pay private providers to give them.<br /><br />A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics provided inaccurate assessments. This has led to some controversy and raised concerns about the quality of care patients receive.<br /><br />Diagnosis<br /><br />You will need to see an Psychiatrist for a thorough evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. Although some people have their diagnosis confirmed by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only professional who can give you an official diagnosis that is recognized for treatment. This is crucial as an official diagnosis is required for access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to gain access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by an Psychiatrist).<br /><br />The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone is likely to exhibit some of these characteristics on occasion, those with ADHD are likely to show them to a much greater extent than others. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, being unable to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also include trouble with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior may include making decisions that are reckless, buying items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentive ADD can be characterized by difficulty staying focused and avoiding deadlines, procrastination 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.<br /><br />Many adults are hesitant to get an assessment. But, it is important to receive the help and treatment you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring you relief and clarity in your life. It will also help you understand the symptoms and provide 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.<br /><br />The process of assessment involves a discussion about your symptoms and how they affect your life, and the completion of the DIVA online exam, and an extensive interview. In your assessment our psychiatrists will have extensive experience in diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and are extremely adept at helping you feel at ease and comfortable.<br /><br />Assessment<br /><br />You will need to undergo a thorough assessment as an adult with ADHD before being diagnosed. This assessment must be performed by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses cannot prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their rank in the pecking order of healthcare professionals as it comes down to their particular capabilities, experience, and knowledge that define them as a specialist.<br /><br />A specialist will employ structured interviewing to gather as much information about your symptoms as they can as they can, including how they affect your relationships with others and how long they last. They will also review your medical history and ask about your the mental health history of your family as well. The specialist will then review all the information collected from a variety sources and determine a diagnosis based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.<br /><br /><br /><br />During the test during the assessment, you will be required to complete tests designed to measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal the impact of your symptoms on how you function in your daily life. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots and sometimes tests such as puzzles or tasks that are timed. They'll also look at any other comorbid disorders that you might be suffering from, as many of them can present symptoms that are similar to those triggered by ADHD.<br /><br />The assessment will also involve an interview with someone who is familiar with you - like someone from your family, a partner or a friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they impact your work and relationships.<br /><br />The expert will be able provide a full explanation of the outcome of the evaluation, as well as the treatment options available. This may 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.<br /><br />Treatment<br /><br />Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is a private examination by a specialist doctor, who can either confirm or deny a diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists with years of experience with neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also inform you if there are other mental health issues that could explain your symptoms, or the cause of your symptoms is medication.<br /><br />After the evaluation, your clinician will discuss the results and recommend an approach to treatment. Based on the specific requirements of each patient you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulants to ease their symptoms. These medicines are believed to boost the amount of brain's chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which play a key role in attention and movement. Once the medication is taken regularly, the majority of people notice that their symptoms get better quickly and effectively.<br /><br />Adults with ADHD may benefit from a program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This could also include strategies to reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and assignments. Certain people with ADHD can also benefit from dietary modifications, which can help to improve their energy levels and focus.<br /><br />Some adults may have a difficult time obtaining the diagnosis of ADHD, especially if they belong to an ethnic minority. Certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or even denied treatment.<br /><br />Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if you don't have insurance. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take the cost into consideration. Furthermore these clinics are more likely to take part in a variety of insurance plans and have interns and residents in training who can provide treatment under mentor guidance.<br /><br />Support<br /><br />People with ADHD often struggle to recognize the effects their condition has on their lives. They don't always realize that their issues in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause problems at work or in relationships. People with high IQs may be more likely to be unaware of the impact of ADHD. They may develop strategies for coping that allow them to function lower than their capabilities, but these can lead to problems such as anxiety and depression as well as alcohol or drug abuse.<br /><br />This story highlights the importance of seeking an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to access NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but have no guarantee that their GP will agree to a 'shared care agreement' that allows them to go back to the NHS to receive follow-up treatment following a private diagnosis of ADHD. This could result in them being required to pay for CBT therapy and medication on their own and even more costly professional coaching services.<br /><br />Always check if the health professional you're considering working with has expertise working with adults with ADHD. You can visit their website or call them to confirm they have the knowledge and experience required. <a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.com/private-adhd-assessment">uk private adhd assessment iampsychiatry.com</a> can also inquire whether they've dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).<br /><br />Finding the right therapist or psychiatrist is important, because they are the ones who prescribes your medication if needed. 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.<br /><br />When selecting a therapist or psychiatrist, you should also take into account your own personal preferences. Some people might be more comfortable with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or culture. You might also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience working with the kink client.<br /><br />