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Why We Why We ADHD Private Diagnosis (And You Should Also!)
ADHD Private Diagnosis

An adult suffering from ADHD might be referred by their doctor to a private health professional to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person, or via video conference.

Panorama, a BBC investigation, has revealed that some clinics provide inaccurate diagnoses. This can put people at risk.

What is the outcome if I don't receive a diagnosis?

A professional diagnosis will give you access to treatment options and aid in reducing feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. Having a diagnosis also helps family members better understand the condition and how it affects a person's daily life. This can lead to better relationships as well as a more educated approach to managing ADHD.

In the UK In the UK, first speak to your GP about the reasons you think you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and refer you for an assessment by an expert. This process will be more efficient when you ask your GP to refer you to a scheme that allows you to choose your own provider.

You will then go through an extensive psychiatric evaluation which includes a thorough clinical interview and psychological testing. It is always beneficial to bring a family member along with to provide support. After the evaluation, a specialist will determine the cause of ADHD and provide treatment recommendations. You should expect your appointment to last around two sessions.

A private diagnosis specialist for adhd can help you avoid the traps of trying to obtain an diagnosis through the NHS. If you are receiving treatment healthcare professionals, they must still adhere with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.

If your doctor is unable to determine that you have ADHD the doctor should explain why. It may be that they don't think you meet the criteria for the disorder, or they believe that an alternative condition is more likely to explain your traits (symptoms). This is perfectly fine and shouldn't discourage you from seeking an additional opinion.

Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals misunderstand their symptoms. Some doctors might inform that their issues are due to an inability to work or that they are lazy or incompetent. It can be frustrating, but you should keep in mind that these stereotypes are not supported by scientific evidence.

What happens if I disagree with the diagnosis?

Many people with ADHD struggle to get a diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition or know how to diagnose it. Some doctors may ignore the symptoms or assume the person is hiding the signs. Some doctors are confused about the distinction between ADHD, depression (everyone is down at times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).

Some medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD may misinterpret the person's behavior as a sign of untreated ADHD, or assume that they are suffering from depression or an anxiety disorder due to it. This can be particularly difficult for women suffering from ADHD whose symptoms can be more subtle and easier to overlook. This confusion can cause people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that are not effective.

Certain private assessment providers will require a written consent from your GP before they can take you on for an appointment. This process can be complicated as NHS doctors may not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred to, and then promptly rejected by the GPs).

The GP who evaluates you will be looking to ask some questions about your personal life and how your ADHD symptoms affect it. Depending on the provider the questions could be about your work, home and family. They will also talk about the various types of medications available to treat ADHD and will discuss which might be most suitable for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medications first, but in the event that this doesn't work for you, then a non-stimulant medication like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.

Once you've been diagnosed and the doctor will send a letter to your GP with paperwork that sets out the diagnosis and the way in which that you be treated. how to get diagnosed with adhd as an adult is called a "shared care agreement". Some doctors are in agreement with these agreements, but not all. If your GP does not, you'll need to continue to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I receive a diagnosis, but don't wish to take medication?

A mental health professional can help develop a treatment plan that is tailored to each individual's needs. Early treatment is crucial and may consist of therapy, medication or lifestyle changes. Children who suffer from ADHD can be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern or aggression towards other people, or serious violations of social norms and rules at home, school or in the company of the peers.

What happens if I want drive?

The DVLA defines ADHD as a disability. This could make it harder for you to obtain your driving license. However it is only applicable if your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your day to day living. This is something you'll need to discuss with your physician.

Similarly, having ADHD can affect how you perform when driving particularly in the case of inattention or unpredictable driving behavior. As a result you could find you have difficulty with organising your car or remembering to take medication prior to driving. If you're concerned about this, opt to drive with someone else or only drive when there's no anyone else in the vehicle.


As you can see, the Panorama program gave a highly biased negative view of private care for ADHD assessments. Many adults have reported to us that they received an assessment in a private clinic without any drug titration. They were then required to return to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This is not only a discrediting of the NHS but also contributes to the stigma that surrounds the condition, which makes many people feel belittled by their family members.

My Website: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/private-adult-adhd-diagnosis/