Frequently Asked Questions
About ADHD

Understanding your ADHD and getting a diagnosis is the first step to treating your ADHD, we have a list of our most common questions about ADHD below.

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How to get an ADHD diagnosis?
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There is no single medical or physical test for ADHD; it is instead diagnosed via an evaluation from an ADHD psychiatrist professional.

At Private ADHD, we ask several questions and review your medical history and lifestyle factors when we determine if our patient has ADHD during our consultation.

Is ADHD an excuse or real?
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ADHD is 100% a  real brain disorder with genetic elements; if you have ADHD, then there is an 85% chance  someone in your family has it, too. 
Research shows that ADHD comes from a chemical imbalance in the brain or neurotransmitters.

Do I have ADHD, or am I just lazy?
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People who suffer from ADHD are some of the most intelligent people in the world; if you think you have ADHD, you are not lazy; your brain just works differently.

Is ADHD a serious illness?
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Yes, ADHD is a serious illness and can have a serious effect on someone's life; perhaps one of the most concerning side effects of ADHD is how it can cause other mental illnesses to manifest, such as depression and anxiety.

ADHD is, without a doubt, misunderstood as a mild illness, which it is not for some people.

What causes ADHD?
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Doctors are still unsure what the main cause of ADHD is. It’s thought to be a combination of several factors that can cause this disorder from an early age, such as genetics, suffering a brain injury, prenatal care and childhood trauma.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of individuals globally. The causes of ADHD are multifactorial and include a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Research indicates that genetics play a significant role in the development of ADHD, with hereditary factors accounting for approximately 75% of cases. Environmental influences, such as prenatal exposure to tobacco smoke, alcohol, or stress, also contribute to the risk of developing ADHD. Additionally, premature birth and low birth weight have been identified as potential risk factors. Understanding these causes is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of ADHD, enabling better support and interventions for those affected by this condition.

What are the 3 main symptoms of ADHD?
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ADHD can have various symptoms; the three most common adult ADHD symptoms are impulsivity, disorganisation and inattention. However even if you don’t have all 3 symptoms, you could still have ADHD.

What do people with ADHD struggle with?
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People living with ADHD tend to struggle with frequently losing things, being late, overthinking, impatience, getting distracted and restlessness.

What are ADHD symptoms in adult women?
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There has been a recent surge in the amount of females getting diagnosed with ADHD, although there are still so many yet to receive the help and support they so greatly need. Some common symptoms are problems focusing, overspending, indecisiveness, problems listening and poor organisation.

What is the treatment for ADHD?
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At PrivateADHD, we create bespoke personalised treatment plans for individuals suffering from ADHD; this treatment typically consists of psychotherapy, medication and holistic lifestyle changes.

How much does ADHD medication cost?
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Medication is recommended as the first-line treatment in ADHD for adults and certain age groups in childrenwith clinically significant impairment in their life (NICE, 2008). Any medication must be considered carefullyalong with any health concerns or other issues that would contraindicate a trial of medication. Given your level of impairment, consideration of a trial of medication would be appropriate to see if this would assist you with your ADHD symptoms. Medications have been found to improve attention span, taskcompletion and self-organisation, whilst reducing impulsivity, distractibility, and restlessness.

Please find a video link here on medications and ADHD. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcTXHy35nWE If you have concerns about taking medications for ADHD, you will have the opportunity to discuss this withan ADHD Specialist. There are many myths about treatment. Treatment carries fewer risks than not takingtreatment.Please find a useful video discussing common myths around ADHD medication: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCIT0YbNSCU Life with unrecognised ADHD often leads to mental health problems. It is important to consider the impact ofthese as well as ADHD on wellbeing. Treatment with medication will likely improve your symptoms of ADHDand this can change how other issues impact on your wellbeing.

Safety Notice: ADHD medications can sometimes be unsafe for individuals with pre-existing heartconditions. Therefore, an interim evaluation, such as an ECG, may be required from your GP (youwill be advised if you need these investigations). If needed, we can recommend private GPs in your area who offer fast turnaround times.

Treatment Plan and Costs:

Medication Titration and Psychoeducation Appointments:
During the titration and optimisation phase (typically between 3-6 months depending on the response), attending monthly appointments and submitting your blood pressure readings is required. The fee is £245 per month/ per appointment during this period.

Medication Costs: Please note that the cost of medication is not included in our fees. The average monthly cost from our recommended third-party pharmacies, which offer same-day in London and next-day delivery to your preferred location via DPD is £65 (varies on type or dosage) Once stable and optimised ( no change in dosage for 3 months): The fee is reduced to £95 per month for prescribing and monitoring.

Shared care agreements- We offer shared care agreements for £150 once stable and optimised

Can ADHD get worse with age?
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ADHD can change as you get older, but it doesn’t get ‘worse’. ADHD symptoms can change and wax and wane with changes in the demands and stresses of life. People find that at some points in their life they require more aggressive treatment than at other points. One might find that symptoms seem worse since you get faced with more challenges and responsibilities as an adult with ADHD.

How To Get An
ADHD Diagnosis

ADHD diagnoses are on the rise; this is down to a surge of people talking about ADHD and leaving the stigma behind. There has been much more education about ADHD thanks to social media platforms like TikTok.

To get an ADHD diagnosis, you can either go through your GP, who can refer you to a service such as ourselves or go onto the NHS waiting list if your area still has an NHS ADHD service. Going private with an online assessment is reported to be the easiest and quickest way to get an ADHD diagnosis.

Are ADHD and Anxiety Related?

ADHD and anxiety can be caused by one another. Studies show that up to 50% of people with ADHD also have one or more specific types of anxiety disorders.

How Do You Get
Tested For ADHD

At Private ADHD, we offer 1-1 online consultations with ADHD specialised NHS-approved psychiatrists who can assess and give you an ADHD diagnosis with if needed, same-day treatment depending on your location.

This assessment goes on for around 2 hours, and the ADHD clinician will ask several questions and review your medical history to make a diagnosis.

Our Reviews

"Very quick to respond and to answer any questions. Friendly service"
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The doctor was very nice and it doesn't matter I was very stressed feeling like on exam he did everything to make the assessment as calm and as nice as possible. I am recommending assessment here to everyone. I received my assessment the same day on my email. Everyone working here are great very patient and kind. God bless you all.
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"Absolutely amazing. Felt completely heard and helped."
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I cannot recommend this psychiatrist enough. They have helped me with many problems, providing exceptional support and care.
MEERA RAVI
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Absolutely amazing. Felt completely heard and helped.
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Fantastic service,so helpful and supportive Angel made me feel so at ease and was so efficient and kind during the booking in phase. The doctor was very knowlegable and thorough. He answered all of my many questions and I feel very positive about the future now. Highly recommend.
Jamm Products
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"I’m very happy with the accuracy and the professional I get from this private company and the help I got for my son ADHD. Money talks you get your worth"
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Five stars great service
Juri Speca
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"I was already ADHD diagnosed back home and have recently moved to London. The NHS initially refused to provide medication and sessions for the psychologist has two years waiting list. I found this private clinic, and they were immediately very helpful, always responding promptly and assisting me with any issues. The online sessions also helped me navigate my daily life more better. Later on, we successfully established a shared care agreement with my GP, and the clinic did not charge extra for this service, unlike other clinics"
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Dr Pav is clearly knowledgeable in his chosen area of expertise. Thorough and comprehensive, would recommend.
MG
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I recently relocated from the USA and needed to find a new doctor for my ADHD treatment. After doing some research, I booked an appointment with this clinic. To my pleasant surprise, I was seen the very next day via video consultation. The convenience of being able to consult with a knowledgeable doctor so quickly was incredible. The doctor was not only highly knowledgeable but also extremely understanding and compassionate. As a woman with ADHD, I often feel overlooked or misunderstood
Estée Curry
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"Best money I have spent - Highly Recommended Mercedez was very helpful and answered my questions very promptly on Whats app, and Mercedez arranged my appointment very quickly, within a few days. Dr Pavan Kooner was very thorough, helpful and understanding. I finally got the validation I needed after all these decades of stress and struggle. I don't have to feel a failure anymore. It is simply the Best Money I have spent. I got the reports sent to me very quickly. Many many thanks Dr Pavan Kooner, Mercedez, and PrivateADHD. Highly Recommended"
Verified Patient
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"I've never been listened to since I've been able to go to the doctors myself for help... It wasn't until I seeked private help with Dr Kooner at PrivateADHD, where I was finally listened to and taken seriously. He went through everything in so much detail and diagnosed me with ADHD. We have regular catch ups to ensure the medication is working for me, which is great... Since being placed on the recommended medication by Dr Kooner, my life has changed for the better, everyone around me has seen such a positive outcome and change."
Betheney
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Private Adhd literally turned my life around. I couldn't have asked for a better doctor. My life has changed for the better. Thank you Angel and most of all Thank you Dr Pav
Bor Rola
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Understanding, simply explained , empathetic.
Richard Coxon
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I was already diagnosed in my home country and I moved to London recently. The NHS initially refused to consult me or provide medication, moreover the waiting list for the online sessions with psychologist are two years. I found this private clinic, and they were immediately very helpful, always responding and assisting me with any issues. The online sessions also helped me navigate my daily life better. Later on, we successfully established a shared care agreement with my GP...
Elena Rusu
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Dr. Kooner is the best doctor both myself and my daughter have had the pleasure to meet and work with. He has transformed our lives in the way he listened to us and diagnosed both of us. He has an incredible bedside manner, very thoughtful, measured and never judging. He also has a very good aftercare service and you can see and feel he is genuinely caring for you and seeking the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Dr.Kooner
Peter M
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Wonderful team of caring people. They answered all my questions straight away, couldn’t have asked for a better service. My Son was diagnosed and had his medicated within a week of starting the process of sending a what’s app. I would recommend PrivateADHD.com to everyone!
Helena O'pray
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Undertook the ADHD diagnosis and management courses. Highly recommend, the courses are very informative and exceptionally presented by Dr Pav who keeps everyone engaged with a mix of educational material as well as activities that test our understanding.
Hasan Lunat
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Dr pav and all the team at private adhd have been so helpful, I was diagnosed quickly and giving the right medication which has changed my life for the better. I highly recommend going with private adhd if you think you have adhd. Thanks guys
Sean
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Private ADHD Best money I have spent - Highly Recommended Mercedez was very helpful and answered my questions very promptly on Whats app, and Mercedez arranged my appointment very quickly, within a few days. Dr Pavan Kooner was very thorough, helpful and understanding. I finally got the validation I needed after all these decades of stress and struggle. I don't have to feel a failure anymore. It is simply the Best Money I have spent. I got the reports sent to me very quickly. Many man
John Perkins
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I have been suffering from a significant number of ADHD symptoms as a child, which worsened over the years. This convinced me to get assessed for ADHD privately, as the NHS waiting list is extremely long (up to 4 years for an assessment).I was referred to PrivateADHD and was seen by a psychiatrist - Dr Pav, over a painless video call. I am thrilled to be referred to PrivateADHD because of how informative, articulate, and understanding Dr Pav was during the ADHD consultation. For some
Namaan
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Oli was a great listener and really helped me understand my diagnostics. I’m looking forward to getting on some meds to help me day to day.
Dan Combes
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"I had been struggling for years before finally booking a private ADHD assessment. The process was smooth, and the specialist was incredibly understanding. I received my ADHD diagnosis quickly and was given a clear treatment plan, including ADHD medication options. Mercedez was amazing, assisting me through the entire onboarding process. Highly recommend!"
Mika-ell Ally
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"Dr. Kooner is the best doctor both myself and my daughter have had the pleasure to meet and work with. He has transformed our lives in the way he listened to us and diagnosed both of us. He has an incredible bedside manner, very thoughtful, measured and never judging. He also has a very good aftercare service and you can see and feel he is genuinely caring for you and seeking the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Dr.Kooner"
Peter M
Verified Review Trustpilot
"I've never been listened to since I've been able to go to the doctors myself for help... It wasn't until I seeked private help with Dr Kooner at PrivateADHD, where I was finally listened to and taken seriously. He went through everything in so much detail and diagnosed me with ADHD. We have regular catch ups to ensure the medication is working for me, which is great... Since being placed on the recommended medication by Dr Kooner, my life has changed for the better, everyone around me has seen such a positive outcome and change."
Betheney
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"Absolutely amazing company and people working for it,  couldn’t recommend more. Life changing decision and one of the most positive experiences I have ever had. My doctor it’s so easy to talk to, so compassionate about what he does, it makes so easy to connect and feel so comfortable to open up and he totally honest. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to Dr Kooner and all the team!"
Agnes Zwierk
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"Dr Kooner actually spent ages discussing my adult son & related issues. It is easy to make appointments, Dr Kooner is always on time, lovely to speak to & the medication arrives pretty much within 48 hours. I am just so glad that we came across Dr Kooner & Private ADHD. Thank you Team Dr Kooner!"
Lucy
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"Dr. Kooner is the best! He is so reliable and has great and fast communication. When I first moved to London, it was very difficult for me to get the ADHD prescription, I was taking in the states. I thought I wasn’t going to be able to take my medication here anymore until I found PrivateADHD. They made it so easy and stress-free to get my prescription and I cannot recommend them enough."
Estee
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"Very helpful doctor. His deep understanding of the unique challenges that come with ADHD is evident in every interaction and his support extends beyond just medical treatment - for eg. he routinely discusses and offers practical strategies to manage daily life. He takes the time to understand each patient’s individual needs and provides tailored advice that makes a real difference. For anyone seeking a comprehensive, well-rounded approach to ADHD treatment, I would highly recommend Dr. Kooner."
Anonymous
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"After several difficulties with pharmacies previously due to the stock issues when I was under the GP temporarily I was so grateful that Private ADHD was able to see me within 48 hours and I had medication delivered to my house which was a pleasant surprise.

Cannot recommend enough, efficient, thorough and seamless experience.I felt the prices and process was explained clearly I understood how many I will need before getting transferred to the GP"
Parth Verg
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"Very professional. Helpful and took his time to explain everything. A positive appointment"
Kelly Hyde
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"I waited nearly 2 years for an NHS ADHD diagnosis; following the NHS appointment in April I was told the wait to start medication would be 8-10 months. In complete despair, I decided to seek private treatment- I contacted Dr Kooner and was able to book a diagnostic reassessment and initial medication titration appointment within 24 hours, and received my first prescription within 3 days. Having access to medication has been an absolute game changer for me and I am so thankful to Dr Kooner for this!"
Sophie
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"I am on a waiting list for adhd but could not wait so went private I see dr kooner and was great understanding, sympathetic and empathic and he was a good listener and I felt relaxed chatting with him"
Shane Marriott
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"Had a consultation with Dr Pav. Cannot recommend highly enough, I had been struggling with symptoms that had been affecting my life for some time. I went to the GP and was told the waiting time was 3-5 years.Booking with privateadhd.co.uk was surprising easy. Once I chose my appointment and confirmed the booking I was sent a pre assessment questionnaire that took about 30 mins to complete, I filled this out with my partner.After this I received a phone call from the doctor and we confirmed the video call appointment for the very next day..."
Vinay Tagger
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"I had an exceptional experience with PrivateADHD for my ADHD diagnosis, and for anyone stuck on the lengthy public waitlist, I highly recommend taking the leap and seeking a private assessment through them...

From day one, PrivateADHD was incredibly responsive and supportive. Out of all the private clinics I reached out to, they stood out for their kindness and willingness to address any question or concern I had along the way. I’m genuinely grateful for the care they showed me, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice to go through them..."
Ash Jayne
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"Wonderful response time and has always made time for my questions and concerns, the past services helped me out many times over the past year and I’m sure will continue to support me and plenty other in the future!"
Dylan
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"Great service. Very knowledgeable about everything ADHD and super fast service. Would highly recommend 👌"
Fleur
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"I have been affected by ADHD symptoms all of my life and decided after family members had been diagnosed and treated with good results that I should try and get an assessment and see if I could benefit from treatment. I was assessed by Dr Kooner over a video chat and found him to be very thorough, informative, patient and helpful... I felt listened to and that I was given informed choice and that my views and opinion mattered. He didn’t rush me and I felt that the experience was safe and comfortable..."
Seana
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"I cannot recommend this psychiatrist enough. They have helped me with many problems, providing exceptional support and care."
Meera Ravi
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"I have been suffering from a significant number of ADHD symptoms as a child, which worsened over the years. This convinced me to get assessed for ADHD privately, as the NHS waiting list is extremely long (up to 4 years for an assessment).

I liked how he intensively explained what causes ADHD, how ADHD runs in families, and such. Finally, as someone who has ADHD, he completely understands the debilitating and crippling effects ADHD has had on me academically, socially, and mentally throughout the years."
Namaan
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