How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
For those of you looking to be diagnosed with ADHD the process may seem overwhelming. However, it does not have to be.
The usual route begins with visiting your GP where you'll be able to have a candid and open discussion about your symptoms and how they have affected you since your early years.
1. Talk with your doctor
Your physician should take your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask questions regarding the symptoms you are experiencing. They should also determine if they believe you meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and what next steps to take.
They may want to refer you to a specialist physician for a diagnostic examination. They might request you to fill out an application form that helps the specialist determine whether you are a candidate for ADHD. These forms can be completed online before your appointment. Prior to your appointment, it is a good idea for you to familiarise with the different symptoms (traits) of ADHD and note down some examples of how they impact you.
The specialist will go over the completed forms and arrange a time for a consultation. It will likely take place in person, but you can also schedule it via phone or via Skype If that's the way you prefer. They will assess if you have the right criteria to be considered for the diagnosis of ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues that might be causing difficulties. They will inquire if you've considered taking medication to treat symptoms and will explain the pros and con of this option.
If you decide to go the route of medication, your doctor will ask you if you agree to give your prescription to your GP under a shared care agreement. They will then request your GP to prescribe the medication and book follow-up appointments with you.
If you do not have access to the NHS and are not a member of the NHS, your GP is not required to refer you to an ADHD assessment. This is due to the fact that GPs are not experts, and are able to refer you to specialists for a diagnosis of ADHD after they have established that your symptoms are causing you significant difficulties in your everyday life.
It is possible to self-refer for a private evaluation of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Psychiatry-UK have a great guide to this on their website here. However, it is an excellent idea to discuss this with your GP first to let them know why you are seeking private referral. If they are reluctant for any reason, or if they are unable to refer you, then it might be time to seek out a new GP.
2. Ask your GP to refer you to your doctor
If you think you or your child may have ADHD, it is important to speak with your GP about the signs. A diagnosis can ease your mind and help you learn more about your condition. It can be a daunting process however, those who wish to live their lives as fully as they can will find it worth the effort.
Discuss with your GP why you think you or your child may have ADHD. Your GP will take this seriously and may ask you to complete an assessment tool for diagnosing. You must also be prepared to provide examples of your symptoms, for example trouble with time management or frequent loss of items.
Depending on where you live, you may need to wait a while before you can receive an ADHD assessment through the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers who can provide a faster appointment. These providers are often recommended by the NICE guidelines and have established track records. They are also able to provide a more thorough assessment and medication treatment if you require it.
In England If your GP will agree to refer you to an ADHD assessment, you have the right to choose your provider. This is the 'Right to Choose" option. On the NHS website you can read more about this. Psychiatry UK the primary provider of RTC in the UK offers a guideline with templates you can use to convince a GP to refer the patient.
Once you have an ADHD assessment, the specialist will follow the NICE guidelines to determine whether you or your child has one of the three types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive or combined. This will involve a thorough clinical interview with questions regarding your medical history, family history and current health issues. The doctor will use symptoms checklists and interviews with your partner, parents and other family members who know you to evaluate your symptoms.
If you decide to use medications for ADHD typically, you'll be discharged back to your GP after a 25-minute visit with a psychiatrist. Your GP will renew your prescriptions and you can then visit your preferred ADHD specialist for further treatments such as CBT therapy or a trial of ADHD medication.
3. Find a psychiatrist or a Psychologist.
adhd assessments uk will write you a referral to see an Psychologist or a psychiatrist for your ADHD assessment. The specialist will review your symptoms and determine the most effective way to help you manage these symptoms. They might suggest medication or cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT) or both. Psychiatrists have advanced psychology qualifications and are experts in mental health. They are able to prescribe medication in Idaho, Illinois and Iowa, as well as the Public Health Service and Indian Health Service. However they'll most likely consult with your primary care doctor or your child's pediatrician prior to prescribing any medication to treat ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work together to help you manage your symptoms and create an effective treatment plan. They will examine how your ADHD symptoms affect your quality of life and how they affect your relationships, work, and your personal well-being. They will also take into consideration any other health issues you may have and how they might be affecting your symptoms.
When you schedule an appointment with a psychiatrist the first thing they do is inquire about your medical history and lifestyle. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires to evaluate your symptoms and the impact they have on your daily life. They might also ask for input from individuals who know you well like family members or close friends.
Some people have difficulty to get a referral request for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This could be due to the stigma that is attached to ADHD or the fact that a GP might believe that your issues are due to something else, like depression or anxiety. This does not always necessarily have to be the case.
Online clinics offer ADHD assessments and prescription drugs. Some of these clinics are located in the UK as well as others in other countries. A majority of them accept health insurance, and a few offer special packages for those who need financial support. It is important to do your research to ensure that you find a physician who can assist you in managing your symptoms and live a healthy and happy life.
4. Make an appointment
You could be offered the choice of a private assessment or the NHS Right to Choose pathway in the event that you are referred to an ADHD assessment by your doctor. This is a new system introduced in 2018, which gives you the right to choose your mental healthcare provider (such as your psychiatrist or psychologist). This makes the process much quicker than having to wait for an NHS appointment, as there is no requirement for your GP to send your referral to a different provider.
Once you have chosen the company for your personal assessment, they will book an appointment with you. You can decide to schedule the appointment in person or via telephone, based on your preference. During the examination, your doctor will ask about different aspects of your life, including your symptoms. They will also ask for input from a person who is close to you, such as your spouse, family member or friend. They can then make an outcome report, which they will then send to your GP.
During the assessment your specialist will discuss whether they believe you could benefit from taking medication. Due to the global shortage of ADHD medication, it can take some time before you receive an order, so this is something that you must be aware of.
If your GP does not approve of your ADHD assessment You have the option to appeal the decision. If you decide to do this it is essential to put your appeal in writing. This will allow you to express any concerns that you have about the decision, and demonstrate the impact it has had on your life. In some cases, the CCG may review their decision and accept your request for funding. If they don't then you can contact your MP and ask them to to get the funding approved. You can find an example letter to send your MP here.