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20 Misconceptions About ADHD Private Diagnosis London: Busted
Getting an ADHD Diagnosis 
 
If you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD, you may consider joining an ADHD support group. These groups are reassuring and supportive, and can provide you with suggestions and treatment options. Support groups can be found in person or online. 
 
Many adults are reluctant to look into an ADHD diagnosis. Unfortunately, this is usually due to a misunderstanding or bias on the part of healthcare professionals. 
 
Costs 
 
If you’re seeking an ADHD diagnosis for yourself as an adult it is often quicker and easier to go private. Private psychiatrists are usually adept at dealing with adult ADHD and can diagnose it more quickly. They also recognize the co-morbidities which are common with ADHD like anxiety and depression. They are usually able to help you with your symptoms too. In the UK there are now a number of adult ADHD special services. These services are typically found in hospitals like the Maudsley and are funded through NHS England. These are not available in all parts of the country and waiting lists can often be long. 
 
Psychiatry UK can also provide assessments funded by the NHS and prescriptions through the Right To Choose Scheme. Patients can select the appropriate provider according to the current guidelines. Psychiatry UK has agreements with Integrated Care Boards (ICBCs) in England to provide these NHS funded ADHD assessments and treatments. Find out more information about this here. 
 
A private ADHD assessment can cost as little as PS160, and includes the diagnostic report. The report can be given to GPs as well as 3rd parties (eg employers or colleges). Additional appointments can be made for follow-up meetings, titration and to write letters of shared care agreements to GPs. Various packages of telephone and online video follow-up are also available. Information is available on the website. These packages are subject to Dr Cubbin’s availability as well as the terms of his business. Students will receive an assessment letter if they require one to help with their Disabled student allowance application. 
 
Assessment 
 
If you’re concerned that you may have ADHD your first step is to speak with your GP. They will take your concerns seriously and request that you fill out a questionnaire to determine if you be suffering from ADHD or another mental health problem. If you are able to meet the criteria for an assessment, they will refer you to an appointment with a doctor. NHS clinics are often oversubscribed and it is crucial to know the length of time you may have to wait before an appointment becomes available. 
 
The test is typically conducted by a psychiatrist, but it can also be done by psychologists. It is essential to determine whether the service you are considering is qualified. A standard ADHD assessment can take up to an hour and will include a medical and psychiatric history, as well as a questionnaire about your current symptoms. It is beneficial to have someone present at the examination. However it isn’t a requirement. 
 
After the assessment, your doctor will determine if you have ADHD and, if so, what level of ADHD you have. The doctor will then offer you advice on what you can do. They may prescribe medication but they may also discuss other options such as cognitive behavioral treatment. 
 
If your doctor decides you have ADHD They will give you an official diagnosis. If they do not decide to treat you with medication, they will tell you the reason. You are entitled to refuse any treatment and to seek a second medical opinion. 
 
Private assessments are usually faster than NHS ones. In London the costs vary from £600 to £1200. Some providers require the referral letter of your GP while others do not. Private psychiatrists are adept at diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD and will spend the time to learn how your symptoms impact your life. They can also test for and offer help with co-morbidities, such as anxiety or depression. 
 
Medication 
 
There are a variety of medications that can be utilized to treat the symptoms of ADHD and a lot of people find that medication is an effective tool in the treatment. The medication improves the activities of certain chemicals in the brain, assisting to control impulsive and hyperactive behaviour. Some people feel more relaxed and focused after taking the drug. It is important to remember that medication isn’t the cure for ADHD and patients should look into therapy. 
 
 
The psychiatric evaluation for adult ADHD is a long and thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will assess whether the symptoms are causing impairment. They will also to rule out any other issues such as thyroid issues or depression. They may also ask for school reports or call family members to get details about the person’s early years. In some instances, a psychiatrist could suggest a psychological assessment to investigate the person’s past and coping mechanisms. 
 
If the psychiatrist feels that medication is required, they will prescribe it. The medication may be stimulant or not, depending on what the individual prefers and how severe their symptoms are. Stimulants, available over-the-counter in pharmacies are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. Non-stimulants are typically prescribed when a patient has more severe ADHD symptoms or is unable to tolerate the side effects of stimulants. 
 
Those who receive a diagnosis of ADHD frequently say it is a relief to find an explanation for their difficulties. They are also often relieved that they are now able to seek treatment. It is important to remember that a diagnosis of ADHD can trigger feelings of shame or guilt. People with ADHD often have difficulty finding employment and can have problems with relationships and family lives. Some may end being in the criminal justice system. 
 
The NHS has not invested enough in ADHD services for adults. The Maudsley Hospital is the only one-stop shop in London for adults with ADHD. However it can be expensive and difficult to get an appointment. Private psychiatrists offer a more professional and faster service, but are generally quite costly. 
 
Aftercare 
 
If you are an adult suffering from ADHD, or you know someone who has the disorder, you might be concerned that getting a precise diagnosis is a challenge. There are a variety of resources that can aid you in managing this disorder. There are numerous websites where you can connect with other adults with ADHD and share stories. IamPsychiatry are great ways to help one another out and to find out what’s working for you. 
 
There are several options available to get an ADHD assessment in the UK. First, you can request a referral from your GP and then undergo an NHS evaluation. This option, however, can take between two and three years and is not completely free. You can also pay for an examination at an independent clinic. This is often much faster and less expensive than the NHS. 
 
These professionals also offer psychotherapy as well as other forms of treatments for ADHD. They can also help you manage your symptoms through lifestyle changes like exercise and diet. The aim of these treatments is to improve your ability to manage your ADHD symptoms and improve your functioning in everyday life. 
 
It is important that you select a doctor who is experienced and qualified in treating ADHD in adults. It is important to treat this disorder properly since it could have serious effects if left untreated. You should also check whether the clinic provides an assessment of cognitive functioning that is comprehensive and screening for other mental health disorders. Lastly, you should consider the costs of the assessment as well as the medication. 
 
Aftercare 
 
Once you have been diagnosed with ADHD It is crucial to have regular follow-up appointments. This will ensure that your symptoms are managed and that you receive the right dose of medication. In addition to these appointments, it’s helpful to join a support group for those who suffer from ADHD. This is a great resource to help you deal with and overcome your issues. 
 
An undercover investigation has revealed that some private clinics are giving out unreliable diagnoses and prescribing powerful medicines. It is essential to conduct your homework and find a reputable clinic that offers accurate and affordable tests for adults suffering from ADHD.