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How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling under the strain of logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some are desperate for answers and are willing to pay private providers for their services. However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics provide unreliable assessments. This has caused controversy and concern over the quality of care that patients receive. Diagnosis You will need to see a psychiatrist for a full assessment in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. 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 important since a formal diagnosis will be required to access certain workplace protections, such as flexible working and to get access to NHS medication. The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone will show certain traits occasionally, those with ADHD will often demonstrate these to a greater extent than others. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, inability to sit still or feeling anxious, and can also include trouble with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior may include making rash decisions, purchasing things without considering the consequences, or jumping into situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD symptoms could include difficulty staying focused on tasks, procrastinating, missing 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. Many adults are hesitant to get a diagnosis. However, it's important to receive the assistance and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of relief and clarity to your life. It can help you comprehend your symptoms and provide strategies and tools to aid you in conquering them. After being diagnosed, a lot of our patients say that their lives have changed for the better. The process of assessment will include an interview about your symptoms and how they affect your life, as well as taking the DIVA online test and a detailed clinical interview. During your examination, our psychiatrists will have extensive experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are extremely adept at helping you feel relaxed and at ease. Assessment As an adult with ADHD you'll need to go through an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their rank in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals is in relation to their specific abilities, knowledge and experience that make them a specialist. A specialist will employ structured interviews to collect as much information about your symptoms as possible, including how they affect you and your relationships and how long they last. They will also inquire about your family's history of mental health and look over your medical history. The specialist will then review all the information gathered from various sources and determine a diagnosis according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association. During the assessment process you will be asked to complete tests designed to measure your symptoms and assess the impact they have on your daily life. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory, and inkblots as well as puzzles or timed tasks. They'll also look at any other disorders you might be suffering from, as many of them may have symptoms similar to those of ADHD. The test will also include an interview with someone who knows you well, like an individual from your family, partner or friend. This is in order to obtain more confirmation of your ADHD symptoms and to see how they impact your relationships and work. The expert will be able provide a full explanation of the findings of the evaluation, as well as the treatment options available. This may include a shared-care contract with your GP (where you pay only the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will go over their holistic recommendations for your care and discuss any medication they believe is appropriate. Treatment Being diagnosed with ADHD can be challenging for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to have a private assessment with a specialist doctor who will be able to confirm or denial the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental issues. The doctor will also be able inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that could cause your symptoms, or if your symptoms are due to medications you're taking. Once the test is complete your doctor will then discuss the results with you and suggest the best treatment plan. Based on the requirements of each person you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that aid in reducing their symptoms. These medications are believed to boost the supply of the brain's natural chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine which play an important role in the development of attention and movement. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve quickly and efficiently. private adhd assessment uk suffering from ADHD might benefit from therapy that focuses primarily on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies to reduce stress and improve their ability to manage time and work. Some people with ADHD may also benefit from dietary modifications that improve their energy levels. Certain adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, particularly when they belong to the minority group. Certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD appears to be. They are more likely to have their ADHD misdiagnosed or to be denied treatment. Finding low-cost assessments and treatments isn't easy, especially if your insurance doesn't cover it. However, many hospitals have specialized ADHD clinics that take finances into consideration. Additionally, these clinics are more likely to be enrolled in a range of different insurance plans and have interns and residents in training who are able to provide treatment under mentor guidance. Support People with ADHD struggle to understand the effects of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware that their issues with organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause difficulties at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are particularly likely to not be able to recognize the impact of their ADHD. They may develop strategies for coping that allow them to function below their potential, but these could lead to issues such as anxiety and depression as well as addiction to alcohol or drugs. This story emphasizes the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Many sufferers are unable to get NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Others are paying to access private healthcare, but have no guarantee that their GP will be willing to sign a “shared care agreement' which will allow them to return to the NHS for follow up treatment following an official diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private therapy, medication, or even more expensive coaching services. Always verify that the health professional you're working with has expertise working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by looking up their website, or calling them to confirm that they have the experience you need. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid disorders (disorders that coexist with ADHD). Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is essential, since they are the ones who prescribes your medication, if required. Choose a doctor that has completed 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. You should also consider your personal preferences when selecting a psychiatrist or therapist. Some people may be more comfortable working with an therapist or psychiatrist who is of their own gender or ethnicity. It is also possible to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience with kink clients.