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How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in many patients due to the lengthy waiting lists. Some patients are desperate to receive answers and are willing to pay private providers to give them. However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that many of these private clinics provide inaccurate assessments. This has led to concerns and controversy over the quality of care that patients receive. Diagnosis You'll need to visit an Psychiatrist for a thorough evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only person who can provide a definitive diagnosis for treatment. This is particularly important as the need for a formal diagnosis is essential in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and to gain access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by an Psychiatrist). The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone is likely to exhibit some of these traits on occasion, those who suffer from ADHD will often demonstrate these to a more extensive degree than other people. Hyperactivity is characterized by fidgeting, being unable to remain still, or feeling anxious, and can also be a problem with planning and organisation. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive choices, purchasing items without considering the implications, or rushing to situations without proper preparation. Inattentive ADD is characterized by difficulty in staying focused, procrastination, missing deadlines or an inability ability to think ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms. Many adults are reluctant to pursue a diagnosis. However, it's necessary in order to get the support and treatment that you require. A diagnosis of ADHD can provide a sense of calm and clarity to your life. It can help you recognize your symptoms, and find strategies and tools to assist you in overcoming them. Many of our patients report that once they have been diagnosed, their lives change to the better. The process of assessment will include a conversation about your symptoms and how they affect your life, taking the DIVA online test, and a detailed clinical interview. In your assessment, our psychiatrists will have extensive experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD and are extremely competent in helping you feel relaxed and at ease. Assessment You'll have to undergo an exhaustive examination as an adult suffering from ADHD before being diagnosed. The assessment must be conducted by a healthcare professional who is an ADHD specialist. This can be a psychologist, psychiatrist or a specialist nurse (though nurses are not qualified to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter what their place in the pecking order of healthcare professionals, when it comes to their particular skills, knowledge and experience that define them as a specialist. A specialist will use an organized interview to collect as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they impact your life and relationships, and how long you have been experiencing them for. They will also go over your medical history and ask questions about family mental health history as well. The specialist will then consider the information gathered from a variety of sources and determine an assessment based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria. During the examination during the assessment, you will be required to take tests designed to assess your symptoms. These tests will also assess the impact they have on your perform in your daily life. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots, as well as tests such as puzzles or tasks that are timed. private adhd assessment bristol consider any other conditions you may be suffering from, as many of them can have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD. A friend, family member or partner will be questioned during the assessment. This is done to gather more corroborative evidence of your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they are impacting your relationships or work. The specialist you meet with will be able give you a comprehensive report detailing the results of your evaluation and what options are available for treatment, including a shared care agreement with your GP for medication (where you only pay the NHS prescription cost). The doctor will go over their holistic recommendations for your care and will go over any medication they believe is appropriate. Treatment Getting a diagnosis of ADHD is not easy for those who suffer from the condition. The first step is to obtain a private assessment by a specialist physician who can confirm or deny the diagnosis. These are normally psychiatrists who have extensive experience in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. The doctor can also determine if you suffer from other mental health issues that may cause your symptoms, or if the symptoms are related to the medication you're taking. After the examination the doctor will go over the results and recommend the best treatment plan. Based on the needs of each individual you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant drugs which help improve their symptoms. These medications are believed to enhance brain's natural chemical messages, like dopamine and norepinephrine which play a crucial role in regulating attention and movements. Once the medication is taken frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and effectively. Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from a program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. It can also include strategies to lessen their frustrations and improve their ability to manage their time and work. Some people suffering from ADHD may also benefit from dietary modifications that improve their energy levels. Some adults are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, particularly when they belong to the minority group. Certain medical professionals have preconceived notions about what ADHD is like. The people in these groups are also more likely to be denied or misdiagnosed a treatment due to this. Finding affordable treatments and evaluations can be challenging, especially when you don't have insurance. However, many hospital-based clinics have special ADHD clinics that take financial concerns into consideration. These clinics are also more likely to accept a variety of insurance plans, and have interns or residents in training who can provide treatment under mentor supervision. Support People suffering from ADHD often struggle to recognize the impact their condition has on their lives. They often don't notice that their issues with planning, organising and completing tasks lead to issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs might be more likely to not understand the effects of ADHD. They may develop coping strategies that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these can result in other problems like depression, anxiety or alcohol or drug abuse. This story emphasizes the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. There are lengthy waiting lists for NHS treatment, which makes it difficult for a lot of people to access the treatment they need. Some pay for private healthcare, but have no assurance that their physician will agree to a 'shared care agreement' that will allow them to return to the NHS for follow-up treatment after receiving a private diagnosis of ADHD. They may have to continue paying for private medication, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services. You should always check whether any health professional you are considering working with has a good track experience working with adults with ADHD. You can do this by looking at their website or contacting them to confirm they have the knowledge you need. You can also determine if they have experience treating comorbid conditions (disorders that co-exist with ADHD). Selecting the right psychiatrist or therapist is essential, since they will be the one who will prescribe your medication in the event of need. Find a doctor who has completed specialized training for adults with 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 be aware of your personal preferences. Some people may be more comfortable with the psychiatrist or therapist of their own gender or culture. It is also possible to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience with clients with kinks.