ADHD Private Diagnosis

An adult with ADHD might need to be referred by a GP to a private health specialist to conduct an assessment. This can be done either in person or via video calls.

The BBC's Panorama investigation has exposed clinics that give incorrect diagnoses. This can put vulnerable 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. A diagnosis can also help family members understand the symptoms and how it impacts the person's life. This can lead to stronger relationships as well as a more educated approach to managing ADHD.

In the UK You should first talk to your GP about the reason you believe you have ADHD. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an assessment with an expert. This process will be quicker If you request your GP to sign up for a plan that allows you to choose your own provider.


The next step is a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, which includes an in-depth interview and psychological tests. It is a good idea to bring a family member with to provide support. After your assessment, the specialist will provide a clear diagnosis of ADHD and give suggestions for treatment. The appointment should last for 2 sessions.

A private diagnosis specialist in adhd can help you avoid the traps of trying to get a diagnose through the NHS. The healthcare professionals you collaborate with should still follow evidence-based practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when treating you.

If your healthcare provider does not find that you have ADHD, they should explain the reason. You may not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they might consider that a different condition could better explain your symptoms. This is fine and should not discourage you from seeking a different opinion.

Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their GPs or other medical professionals misunderstand their symptoms. They may be told their problems are the result of not trying hard enough or are incompetent or negligent. It can be frustrating, but keep in mind that these stereotypes aren't supported by evidence from science.

What happens if I don't agree with the diagnosis?

Many people with ADHD are unable to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition or know how to diagnose it. Some might dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or believe that the person is masking these symptoms. Some doctors may be confused by the difference between ADHD and other mental health issues such as depression (everyone feels down sometimes) or anxiety (which can present with the same symptoms).

Some medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD may misinterpret the person's behavior for their unmanaged ADHD or believe that they are suffering from depression or anxiety disorder due to it. Women suffering from ADHD are often difficult to identify because their symptoms are often subtler and more difficult to recognize. This confusion can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that aren't effective.

Certain private assessment providers will require a written consent from your GP before they can take the appointment. This process is not always easy 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 who evaluates you will be looking to ask some questions about your life and how your ADHD symptoms affect it. This may include questions about your work, home and family life, based on the doctor. They will also talk about the different types of medication available to treat ADHD and discuss what might be most suitable for you. Generally, clinicians will try stimulant medication first but should this not work for you then a non-stimulant medication like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride might be recommended.

If you are diagnosed and the doctor will write to your GP with a form that spells out the diagnosis and how that you be treated. This is known as a 'shared care agreement'. Some doctors are in agreement with these agreements, but not all. If how to get an adhd diagnosis uk does not agree with these agreements, you'll still be required to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I'm diagnosed but don't want to undergo medication or another treatment?

A lot of the symptoms of depression and anxiety are similar to those of ADHD and anxiety, which is why a mental health professional can help develop an appropriate treatment plan that meets the individual requirements of each individual. Early treatment is essential, and it may consist of therapy, medication or lifestyle adjustments. 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 peers.

What happens if you decide to drive?

As the DVLA thinks of ADHD as a disability, having the condition could make it more difficult to get your driver's licence. However, this is only if your symptoms have a significant and long-term impact on your day-to-day living. This is something that you would need to discuss with your physician.

ADHD can also affect your driving performance, especially if you exhibit 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 concerned about this, you can opt to travel with someone else or only drive when there's no one else in the car.

As you can see that the Panorama program provided a biased negative perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. We hear from a lot of adults who receive a diagnosis without a drug titration test, but they are required to return to their GP and wait in the back of the line for an NHS assessment due to being'sneaked' in to a private clinic. This doesn't only discredit the NHS, it increases the stigma associated with an illness that many believe they are being judged for, even by their family members.