ADHD Private Diagnosis
A doctor can recommend an adult suffering from ADHD to a private healthcare specialist for an assessment. This can be done in person or by video calls.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed clinics that offer inaccurate diagnoses. ADHD Diagnosis can put people at risk.
What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?
A diagnosis from a professional can grant you access to treatments and decrease feelings of self-doubt or confusion. Having a diagnosis also helps family members to know the symptoms and how it impacts a person's daily life. This can result in stronger relationships and a better approach to managing ADHD.
In the UK In the UK, first talk to your GP about the reasons you think you may have ADHD. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an assessment with a specialist. This process will be quicker If you request your GP to use a scheme which allows you to select your preferred provider.
You will then go through a thorough psychiatric assessment which includes a thorough psychotherapy session and a clinical interview. It is always beneficial to bring a friend or family member with you to offer assistance. After the evaluation, a specialist will identify ADHD and provide treatment recommendations. It is recommended that you plan for your appointment to last between two and three hours.
Finding a diagnosis from an adhd private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid the pitfalls that can arise when trying to get a diagnosis through the NHS. If you are receiving treatment healthcare professionals, they must follow evidence-based guidelines and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor does not diagnose you with ADHD the doctor should explain why. You may not meet the requirements for ADHD, or they might think that another condition would better explain your symptoms. This is fine and shouldn't discourage you from seeking an alternative opinion.
One of the main reasons why adults struggle to obtain a diagnosis of ADHD is that they are often misunderstood by their GP or other medical experts. They might be told that their problems are a result of not working hard enough or are negligent or lazy. It can be frustrating, but you should be aware that these myths aren't supported by scientific evidence.
What happens if I don't agree?
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to get an diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition or how to recognize it. Some may dismiss the symptoms as normal or believe that the person is hiding the symptoms. Some GPs are also confused about the distinction between ADHD depression (everyone experiences down times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).

In some instances, medical staff who are not familiar with ADHD will confuse the person's behavior with that of their uncontrolled ADHD or think that the person is suffering from depression or anxiety because of their unmanaged ADHD. This is particularly challenging for women suffering from ADHD who's symptoms may be more subtle and difficult to miss. This confusion can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that are not effective.
Certain private assessment providers require a recommendation letter from your GP to make an appointment. This is not always straightforward, as NHS GPs are able to bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred to and then promptly batted back by doctors) on spurious grounds.
The GP will ask you questions about your lifestyle, and how ADHD symptoms impact it. Depending on the doctor it could include questions about your work, home and family. They will also discuss the different types of medication available to treat ADHD and will discuss which might be best for you. Generally, clinicians will try stimulant medications first, but if this doesn't suit you then a nonstimulant drug such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride might be recommended.
Once you receive a diagnosis the doctor will send a letter to your GP which outlines the diagnosis as well as the recommended treatment. This is referred to as a "shared care agreement". Some GPs will accept these agreements, but not all of them will. If your GP doesn't accept these agreements, you'll still have to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I'm diagnosed but don't want to undergo medication or another treatment?
Many of the signs of depression and anxiety are similar to the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, therefore an expert in mental health can help you develop a treatment plan that fits the individual requirements of each individual. Early treatment is essential and may include talk therapy or medicine. It could also involve lifestyle modifications. Children who suffer from ADHD can also be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggressive behavior toward other people or serious violations of social norms and rules at school, home or in the company of friends.
What happens if you decide to drive?
The DVLA defines ADHD as a disability. This can make it more difficult for you to obtain your driving licence. This is only applicable when your symptoms have a an extended and significant impact on your daily life. It is recommended to discuss this with your physician.
In the same way, having ADHD could affect how you perform when driving particularly when your symptoms include inattention or unpredictable driving behavior. You may have difficulty to organise your car, or make sure to take your medication prior to driving. If you are concerned about this, you could choose to drive with a passenger or only drive when you know you will be alone in the car.
As you can see it, the Panorama programme gave a very negative and distorted perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. Many adults have shared with us that they were given a diagnosis in private clinics without medication titration. They then had return to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This doesn't only discredit the NHS and increases the stigma associated with an illness that many believe they are judged by even by their family members.