ADHD Private Diagnosis

An adult suffering from ADHD might need to be referred by their doctor to a private healthcare professional for an assessment. This can be done in person or online via video call.

adult adhd diagnosis uk iampsychiatry.uk has revealed clinics that offer inaccurate diagnoses. This could put patients at risk.

What happens if I don't get an answer to my question?

A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment and help you reduce the feeling of anxiety and self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members to know the symptoms and how it impacts a person's daily life. This can lead to better relationships and a better understanding of ADHD.

In the UK, you should first speak to your GP about the reason you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and refer you for an assessment by an expert. This process will be more efficient when you ask your GP to use a scheme which allows you to select your personal provider.

Then, you will undergo a thorough psychiatric assessment which includes a thorough psychological test and clinical interview. Bringing a family member to the appointment is always beneficial. After your assessment, a specialist will diagnose ADHD and offer treatment recommendations. You should expect your appointment to last around two sessions.

Getting a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist will help you avoid pitfalls that can arise when you attempt to obtain a diagnosis through the NHS. When delivering care to you healthcare professionals, they must still adhere with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.

If your doctor does not find that you suffer from ADHD you should be told the reasons. It may be that they don't believe you meet the criteria for this disorder, or they think an alternative condition is more likely to explain your behavior (symptoms). This is fine and shouldn't discourage you from seeking an alternative opinion.


Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals don't understand their symptoms. Some doctors might inform them that their problems are due to an inability to work or they're lazy or incompetent. It can be difficult, but be aware that these stereotypes are not supported by scientific research.

What happens if I disagree?

Many people suffering from ADHD have difficulty getting an diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition or know how to recognize it. Others may dismiss the symptoms as normal or assume that the person is hiding the symptoms. Some doctors are confused about the difference between ADHD depression (everyone experiences down times) and anxiety (which may have similar symptoms).

In some instances medical professionals who are unfamiliar with ADHD may confuse the patient's behavior with their uncontrolled ADHD or may believe that the patient is suffering from anxiety or depression because of their unmanaged ADHD. Women who suffer from ADHD are often difficult to diagnose because their symptoms are typically more subtle and difficult to detect. This can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that are not effective.

Some private assessment providers require a recommendation letter from your GP to schedule an appointment. This can be a difficult process due to the fact that NHS GPs might not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessment are referred, and then promptly rejected by GPs).

The GP will ask you questions regarding your life, and how ADHD symptoms affect it. Depending on the doctor, this can include questions about your home, work and family. They will also talk about the various strengths and types of drugs available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be best for you. In general, doctors will test stimulant medications first. However, in the event that this doesn't work for you, then a nonstimulant medication like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.

If you are diagnosed, your clinician will send a letter to your GP that outlines the diagnosis as well as the recommended treatment. This is referred to as a "shared care agreement'. Certain doctors will sign these agreements however, not all of them will. If your GP does not agree with these agreements, you will still have to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What is the next step if I am diagnosed but don't want to receive medication or any other treatment?

A mental health professional can to develop a treatment program that is that is tailored to the individual's needs. Early treatment is essential and may include talk therapy or medication. It may also require lifestyle changes. Children with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a pattern of aggression towards other people or serious violations of social norms and rules at school, home or with friends.

What is the procedure if I decide to drive?

Since the DVLA considers ADHD as a disability, having the condition could make it more difficult for you to obtain your driver's license. However it is only applicable in the event that your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your day to day living. This is something you would need to discuss with your physician.

ADHD can also affect your driving in particular if you display impulsivity and erratic driving behaviors. It may be difficult to arrange your car or make sure to take your medication prior to driving. If you're worried about this, you may choose to drive with a friend or only drive when you will be alone in the car.

As you can see, the Panorama program provided a negative and biased perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. We hear from many adults who receive a diagnosis without drug titration, but they are required to return to their GP and wait in the back of the line to undergo an NHS assessment because they were'sneaked into the private clinic. This doesn't just denigrate the NHS, it creates a stigma around a condition that many people feel they are being judged for, even by their own family.