Many patients seeking an assessment of ADHD are struggling under the burden of long NHS waiting lists. Some are in desperate need of answers and are willing to pay private firms for their services.
However the recent BBC Panorama investigation has suggested that a lot private clinics are providing unreliable assessments. This has sparked controversy and concerns about the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
You'll need to visit a psychiatrist for a full evaluation to be diagnosed with ADHD. A psychiatrist is the only one who can provide a formal diagnosis for the prescription of medication. This is crucial as a formal diagnosis is necessary in order to access workplace protections (such as flexible working) and also gain access to NHS medication (which can only be prescribed by a Psychiatrist).
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three main categories including impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention. While everyone has some of these characteristics occasionally however, those with ADHD tend to exhibit these characteristics in a more severe form. Hyperactive behavior can include fidgeting or being agitated. It may also include issues with planning and organization. Impulsive behavior can include reckless decisions, buying items without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without adequate preparation. Inattentional ADD symptoms can include trouble keeping a focus on tasks that require attention, avoiding 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 an assessment. However, this is important to receive the support and treatment that you need. private adhd assessment london of ADHD could bring relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you understand the symptoms and provide strategies and tools to overcome them. Many of our patients say that once they have been diagnosed, their lives are changed to the better.
The assessment process consists of a discussion about your symptoms and their impact on your life, the taking of the DIVA online exam and an in-depth interview. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are able to make you feel comfortable.
The Assessment
As an adult with ADHD you'll need to go through an extensive assessment before you are diagnosed. This needs to be performed by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist within ADHD. This can be a specialist nurse, psychologist or psychiatrist (though nurses are not able to prescribe medication). It doesn't matter where they are in the pecking-order of healthcare professionals, as it is their specific capabilities and expertise that distinguishes them as an expert.
A specialist will use a structured interview to gather as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they impact your life and relationships and how long you've been experiencing them for. They will also inquire about your family's history of mental health and look over your medical history. The doctor will then take into consideration all the information gathered from various sources before determining an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the assessment process, you will be asked to complete tests that are designed to assess your symptoms and assess their impact on your daily functioning. You may be asked to fill out questionnaires regarding your symptoms such as memory, inkblots, and other tests like puzzles or timed tasks. They also consider any other comorbid conditions that you might be suffering from as many of them can have similar symptoms to those that are 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 see 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 an agreement to share care with your GP for medication (where you pay just the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will outline their holistic plan as well as any medication they feel is appropriate.
Treatment
Being diagnosed with ADHD can be challenging for adults with the condition. The first step is to have an individual assessment with a specialist doctor who can confirm or deny the diagnosis. These are usually psychiatrists who have extensive experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able to tell you if you have other mental health issues that may explain some of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are due to medications you're taking.
Once the test is complete, your clinician will discuss the results and suggest a treatment plan. Depending on the needs of each individual, you may be prescribed medication or undergo psychotherapy. Most people with ADHD are prescribed stimulant medications that aid in reducing their symptoms. These drugs are believed to increase the amount of brain's natural chemical messengers, like norepinephrine and dopamine, which play a key role in attention and movement. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice their symptoms improve rapidly and efficiently.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from a program that focuses on improving their relationships and self-esteem. This can also include strategies to reduce their stress and increase their ability to manage their time and tasks. Some people suffering from ADHD also benefit from diet changes, which can help to improve their concentration and energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD than others, especially when they belong to the minority group. Some medical experts have preconceived notions of what ADHD is like. The people in these groups are also more likely to be denied or misdiagnosed a treatment because of this.
Finding affordable evaluations and treatments can be a challenge, particularly if you do not have insurance. However, many hospital-based clinics have specialized ADHD clinics that take finances into account. Furthermore, these clinics are more likely to participate 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 impact of their condition on their lives. They aren't aware of the fact that their difficulties with planning, organizing 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 coping strategies that allow them to function less than their potential. However, these could result in other problems like depression, anxiety, or drug or alcohol abuse.
This story highlights the need to seek an expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. Many people are unable to access NHS treatment due to the sluggish waiting lists. Some pay for private healthcare, but have no assurance that their doctor will sign a'shared care agreement' that will allow patients to return to the NHS for follow up treatment after receiving an individual diagnosis of ADHD. They could have to keep paying for private therapy, medication, or even more costly coaching services.
Always check if the health professional you're working with has experience working with adults with ADHD. You can check their website or contact them to confirm they have the experience and expertise required. You can also inquire whether they have dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
Choosing the right psychiatrist or therapist is crucial, as they are the ones who prescribes your medication in the event of need. 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.
You should also think about your personal preferences when choosing the right therapist or psychiatrist. For example, some people will be more comfortable with an therapist who is a member of their gender or cultural. You may also prefer to work with a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ or has worked with clients who are kink-allied.
