20 Fun Facts About Private ADHD Diagnosis

How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you'd like 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 involve some red tape for example, the need for old school reports to be submitted. However, you can bypass the waiting and get an assessment in private by making an appointment directly with an online ADHD clinic.
What is an assessment that is private?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with an expert who will discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It typically lasts two sessions and is more thorough than an NHS psychotherapy assessment. The process consists of a structured interview with a expert who will examine your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also consider other issues with your mental health or neurological issues which could be causing your symptoms. They will focus on different areas of functioning, including work or relationships and will ask you to provide examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is worth bearing in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD is not an easy up and down one. A lot of people who are told they have the condition have a mixed diagnostic picture. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three primary symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity often is not as boisterous hyperactivity that is seen in children. It can be present as an inability to settle or a constant rushing. Inattention may also manifest as a difficulty in concentrating on tasks, organising or sitting for long periods of time.
If you think that medication could help your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will enable you to get reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). This can be accomplished by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment.
If adhd private assessment refuses to refer you, or cannot offer you an immediate appointment, you may want to change your GP. You may want to think about changing GPs in this situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more information on how you can make your decision.
You might also be able make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider using the NHS system or independently. Most of these providers will require the referral letter of your GP but some don't however, so make sure to make sure to check with the provider you choose prior to making an appointment.
How can I obtain a private assessment?
ADHD is a complex mental illness that affects the function of brain processes such as motivation, working memory and attention. It can cause problems in a variety of areas for adults and can be difficult to live with. A private ADHD assessment will help you understand the impact that these symptoms can affect your life, and identify how to manage these symptoms.
There are a variety of providers who will perform an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You have the option of exercising your right to choose (RTC) if you ask your GP to refer to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do so it might be worthwhile to find another GP who is willing.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse will usually conduct the assessment (or another appropriate healthcare professional, as per NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases, an ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires and a clinic interview either in person or via video chat. This will usually last for 45 to 90 minutes.
If you are an adult you will be asked questions about your current issues and your background from your childhood. A healthcare expert will determine if exhibit any of the characteristics associated with ADHD such as hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. You will be asked for examples of when you have demonstrated these traits. The healthcare professional can then make use of this information to diagnose and suggest treatments.
A private evaluation can be helpful if you've been struggling for a long period of time and do not wish to wait for an NHS referral. 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 this with them, and if you decide to test medication it is recommended that you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can see a list of providers if your GP in England will refer 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 several ways to obtain an ADHD evaluation. The NHS offers a procedure called "Right to Choice" where you can request your GP to refer you to one of the specialist doctors on their list - this could cut down the wait time significantly. Private providers can also offer rapid diagnosis.
It is recommended to find a psychiatrist who has experience dealing with adult ADHD. It may take some time to find one, as they are difficult to come by. Some clinics will insist on the GP recommendation before they schedule an appointment. However it is not always required.
Psychiatrists can provide an evaluation of your symptoms, but will not be able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists, can help manage your symptoms. However, they are not able to offer a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to qualify for assistance such as the Disabled Student's Allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
A Psychiatrist who is an expert can identify and explain your symptoms, determine whether they are consistent with ADHD and look into any other mental health issues you may have. It is important to be honest and open with your Psychiatrist to ensure they can give you the best possible treatment.
You will need to pay for the assessment. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to receive medication through a shared-care agreement with your doctor. (You'll still need to pay the NHS prescription fee). We recommend that you speak with your GP about the possibility of a private diagnosis prior to making an appointment. This will allow them to be aware of what you are doing and to give their approval should it be required.
Participating in a support group is another option to get together with other adults with ADHD and learn from their experiences. They can be incredibly supportive, comforting and encouraging. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit or look up local groups that meet in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over claims that private clinics are giving out unreliable diagnoses. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them even though he did not have ADHD. The report suggested that these assessments were made in a hurry and did not take into account all the symptoms or the effects of ADHD on people's lives. The report also raised concerns about patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and must pay out of pocket to receive an assessment or prescription.
It is true that doctors will often recommend an ADHD assessment with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) however they will typically advise you that there will likely be a waiting period. The time frame for waiting is different from one company to the next and is usually six weeks. It is recommended to study the provider thoroughly and ask family and friends members for referrals. Selecting a reputable and experienced company will probably mean you will have less wait time than if you choose to go through your GP.
During the evaluation, your psychiatrist will assess in a subjective manner whether your ADHD symptoms are causing a significant disruption in your daily activities. They will ask you to rule out any other reasons, such as depression or anxiety. If necessary, they will ask for additional evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood). This can be a stressful process, particularly for those who have more complex family circumstances or for those who haven't been in a position to locate their school records from childhood.
After being diagnosed with ADHD by an experienced 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 the shared care agreement if you have been diagnosed privately and haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is due to the fact that doctors lack the knowledge to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medications.