Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

At Prometheus, both adolescent (16 years+) and adult ADHD assessments/diagnosis are available.  ADHD is a behavioural disorder characterised by a combination of difficulties with inattentiveness, restlessness and impulsivity.  Although many people experience these kinds of difficulties to some degree, for individuals with ADHD the symptoms tend to have a big impact on their daily life including their relationships.  ADHD can also impact on self-esteem, personal well-being, relationships with others and work performance. One of our specially trained and experienced clinical psychologists at Prometheus can assess for the signs of ADHD, which include:

• Difficulty focusing on or paying attention to tasks
• Struggling to manage time effectively
• Mood swings or difficulties managing feelings such as anger or frustration
• Easily distracted or unable to concentrate
• Impulsiveness
• Difficulties with organisation
• Forgetfulness
• Anxiety

Diagnosis and Treatment 

The ADHD assessment is undertaken by a clinical psychologist.  The assessment is comprehensive and follows the NICE guidelines to ensure a thorough and evidence-based approach.  A private ADHD diagnosis can offer valuable insights and a clearer understanding of your strengths and challenges.  However, it is important to be aware that the clinical psychologist is not able to prescribe medication.  While some GPs accept private ADHD diagnosis and may prescribe medication or refer you to an NHS psychiatrist/team to do this, this is not guaranteed as it is at the discretion of both the GP and the NHS service.  NHS policies vary, as do, at this point, the approaches of different GPs, GP surgeries and the NHS services.  If you feel you would like to explore medication as a treatment option (if a diagnosis were to be given), it is recommended that you discuss your options with your GP first (i.e. what your GP will accept and do) before starting an ADHD assessment.  Your local NHS ADHD/neurodiversity service will also likely have a position statement relating to acceptable and best practice ADHD assessments.

An additional option is that a private psychiatrist may accept the assessment outcome to initiate mediation but may also complete further assessment themselves, though again this cannot be guaranteed.  A private psychiatrist would be at additional cost to you.

Possible treatment routes include medication to target specific symptoms, psychological intervention (e.g. CBT) and lifestyle adaptations. A combination of these is usually most effective.