How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is unable to diagnose ADHD in a large number of patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and are willing to pay private providers for their services.
However an earlier BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many private clinics are handing out inaccurate assessments. This has caused concern and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD to be diagnosed, you'll need to undergo a thorough examination with psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the only person who can give a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is particularly important as a formal diagnosis is necessary to gain access to workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to get access to NHS medication (which is only prescribed by psychiatrists).
Instability, hyperactivity, and inattention are the three primary signs of ADHD. While everyone exhibits some of these characteristics occasionally, those with ADHD tend to display these traits to a more severe degree than others. The signs of hyperactivity include the tendency to fidget or be agitated. It can also indicate problems with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior may include making decisions that are reckless, buying things without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD can be characterized by difficulty in staying focused, procrastination, missing deadlines 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.
While many adults feel apprehensive about having an assessment, it is essential that you do so to receive the help and treatment you need. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide relief and clarity to your life. It can also help you understand your symptoms and find strategies and tools to overcome them. Many of our patients tell us that once they've been diagnosed, their lives are changed for the better.
The assessment process will involve an open discussion about your symptoms and how they affect your life, taking the DIVA online test and an in-depth clinical interview. describes it have a wealth of experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are highly skilled to make you feel at ease.
Assessment
You will need to undergo an exhaustive evaluation as an adult suffering from ADHD before you are diagnosed. This assessment must be performed by a healthcare provider who is an ADHD specialist. This can 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, since it is their unique skills and knowledge that defines them as an expert.
A specialist will employ structured interviewing to gather as much information about your symptoms as possible, including how they affect your relationships and you and how long. They will also inquire about the mental health history of your family members and review your medical history. The doctor will then go over all the information gathered from a variety sources and formulate a diagnosis according to the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association.
During the test you will be asked to complete tests that will measure your symptoms. These tests will also reveal the impact of your symptoms on how you function in your daily life. You might be asked to complete questionnaires about your symptoms, memory, inkblots, and other tests such as puzzles or timed activities. They will also consider any other conditions you may be suffering from since many of these can present similar symptoms to those that are associated with ADHD.
The assessment will also involve an interview with a person who knows you well, such as an individual from your family, partner or a friend. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms, and to determine whether they impact your work and relationships.
adhd assessment private will be able provide a full explanation of the outcome of the examination, as well as the treatment options available. This could include a shared-care agreement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will go over their recommended holistic plan for your care and will go over any medication that they think is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have difficulty obtaining the diagnosis. The first step is to conduct a private assessment by a specialist doctor who can confirm or denial the diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. The doctor will also be able determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that might explain some of your symptoms, or if the symptoms are due to medication you're taking.
Once the test is complete the doctor will review your results and recommend the best treatment plan. Depending on the requirements of each person you could be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medication which help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to increase brain's chemical signals, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a significant role in attention and movements. The majority of people notice that their symptoms improve quickly when they take the medication on a regular basis.
Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from a program that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. These can include strategies that reduce frustration and improve their ability to manage time and manage their tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD also benefit from diet changes, which can improve their energy levels and concentration.
Some adults may have a difficult time obtaining a diagnosis for ADHD, especially those who belong to an ethnic minority. Certain medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD appears to be. People with these preconceived ideas are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or be refused 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 that take the financial aspects. These clinics are also more likely to accept a range of insurance plans, and have residents or interns in training who offer treatment under the supervision of a mentor.
Support
People with ADHD are often unable to comprehend the impact their condition has on their lives. They aren't aware that their problems in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or with relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to not understand the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform at a lower level than they could. However, these may lead to other problems like depression, anxiety or alcohol or drug dependence.
This story demonstrates the need to seek 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 need. Some people pay for private healthcare, but are not guaranteed that their doctors will sign a "shared care agreement" which would permit patients to return to the NHS to receive follow-up care following a diagnosis by a private doctor of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private therapy, medication, or even more costly coaching services.
Always ensure whether any health professional you're thinking of working with has a positive track of experience working with adults suffering from ADHD. You can look up their website or call them to confirm they have the expertise needed. You can also inquire whether they have treated comorbid conditions (disorders which co-exist with ADHD).
It is essential to select the best psychiatrist or therapy as they will be the ones to prescribe medication when needed. Find a doctor who 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.
When selecting a therapist or psychiatrist, you should also consider your own personal preferences. Some people might be more comfortable with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or ethnicity. You may also prefer to work with someone who is LGBTQIA+-allied or has experience working with kink clients.