How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment is required. This will be conducted by a psychiatrist, or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a procedure that may be a bit complicated, such as the need for old school records to be supplied. You can get rid of the wait by booking an appointment for a private ADHD assessment directly through an online ADHD center.
What is a private evaluation?
A private assessment for ADHD is a meeting with a specialist to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It usually lasts for two sessions and is more in-depth than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The process will involve an in-depth clinical interview with a specialist and they will examine your symptoms from your childhood through adulthood. They will also examine other issues with your mental health or neurological issues which could be causing your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in various areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is important to remember that ADHD diagnosis isn't always easy. Many people diagnosed with the disorder have a mixed diagnosis. It is crucial to remember that the three primary symptoms are hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. In adults, hyperactivity usually looks different from the boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It could be present as the feeling of being constantly distracted or in constant motion. In the same way, inattention may be a sign of difficulty sitting still and being organised or having difficulty staying focused and forgetting things easily.
If you think that medication could aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will allow you to apply for reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance. This can be done by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment.
If your GP is unwilling to refer you to a specialist, or if they are unable to provide you with an appointment in a hurry you might want to change your GP. If this is the case, it could be worthwhile to switch GPs You can learn more about how to make use of your right to choose the Psychiatry UK website.
You might also be able book an appointment directly with a private psychiatric service, either through the NHS system or privately. Most of these providers will require an appointment letter from your GP however some do not, so check with your chosen provider prior to making an appointment.
How do I obtain a private evaluation?
ADHD is an intricate mental disorder that affects brain processes such as motivation working memory, motivation, and attention. It causes problems in many areas of life for adults and can be challenging to manage. A personal ADHD assessment will help you understand the impact the symptoms affect your life, and identify how to manage them.
There are a number of providers who will carry out an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to choose (RTC) when you ask your GP to refer to one of these providers. If your GP is unwilling to do this, you may want to find a different GP willing to help.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse is usually the one to conduct the assessment (or an appropriate healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). They are the only healthcare professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. Most of the time the ADHD assessment will involve questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician, either in person or over video call. It will typically last 45 to 90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current problems and your past difficulties since childhood if you are an adult. The healthcare professional will determine if you exhibit any of the traits that are associated with ADHD, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and an impulsive nature. You will be asked to give instances of when you've displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will then employ these private adhd assessment to determine an assessment and suggest treatments.
If you're struggling with a chronic condition and do not want to wait for a referral from the NHS, obtaining a private assessment may be advisable. It is important to know that the results of a private assessment do not automatically mean your GP will prescribe medication. It is still necessary to discuss the issue with them. If you decide to try medication it is recommended that you sign a shared care agreement with your GP.
You will find a list of providers in case your GP in England is willing to send you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers provide assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a number of methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS provides a "Right to Choose" process that allows you to request a referral from one of the specialists on their list. This can drastically reduce waiting times. Private providers can also provide a quick diagnosis.
It is recommended to find an experienced psychiatrist who has experience with adult ADHD. It might take a while to locate one, since they are difficult to come by. Some will insist that you have an GP referral letter before they will see you for an examination however this is not always required.
Psychiatrists are able to assess the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, such as Psychologists, can help you manage your symptoms. However they cannot offer a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to be eligible for assistance such as the Disabled Student's Allowance or reasonable adjustments in the workplace.
A Psychiatrist who is an expert will be able to recognize and describe your symptoms, determine whether they are consistent with ADHD, and consider any other mental health issues you might have. Your Psychiatrist is able to provide you with the best treatment if your honest and open.
You'll need to pay for the assessment, but if you are diagnosed with ADHD, it may be possible to obtain medication through a shared care agreement with your doctor (you'll be required to have to pay the NHS prescription charge). If you're thinking of paying for a private diagnosis, we'd recommend you speak with your GP prior to booking an appointment, so that they know what you're doing and can give their consent, in the event of need.
Joining a support group is another option to get together with other adults who suffer from ADHD and gain insight from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and inspiring. You can find online spaces through Facebook and Reddit or local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the claims that some private clinics are giving out unreliable diagnoses. An undercover reporter visited three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them even though he didn't have ADHD. The report claimed that the assessments were rushed, and did not take into consideration the full spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD has on people's daily lives. The report also raised concerns regarding patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and are required to pay out of pocket for a diagnosis or a medication.
It is true that GPs may recommend an ADHD evaluation with one of the most prominent private companies (such as Priory) but they will usually advise you there will likely be a waiting time. The time frame for waiting varies from one provider to another, but is typically six weeks. Ask family and friends for recommendations and do thorough research about the provider. Picking a reputable, experienced company will probably mean you will have less wait time than if you go through your GP.
During the assessment the psychiatrist will, somewhat subjectively examine whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will try to rule out other reasons, like depression, anxiety or thyroid issues. They will usually ask you to supply supporting evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood) and school reports, if necessary. This can be a difficult procedure, especially for those with more complicated family situations or for those who have not been successful in finding their school records from childhood.
After you have been diagnosed with ADHD by an accredited healthcare professional you may apply for disability benefits from your local authority. But, be aware that the majority of GPs will not sign a document referred to as a shared care agreement in the event that you were diagnosed privately and haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is because GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD.