How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
For those of you looking to be diagnosed with ADHD the process may seem daunting. But, it doesn't need to be.
The typical process starts with a visit to your GP where you will be able to have an open and honest discussion about the symptoms and how they have affected your life since the time you were a child.
1. Talk to your GP
Your GP should take your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask questions regarding how the symptoms affect your life. They should also talk about whether they think you meet criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD and what the next steps should be.
They may refer you to a specialist to determine a diagnosis. They may ask you to complete the form to help the doctor determine if you are a candidate for ADHD. These forms can be completed online prior to your appointment. It is recommended to learn about the different traits (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment, and note down the ways you experience these symptoms.
The specialist will go over the forms you've filled out and then set up a time to meet with you. It is likely to be in person, but you may also be able to do it over the phone or through Skype should that be what you prefer. They will determine if you fit the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis and will also look at any other mental health issues causing difficulties. They will also inquire whether you're thinking of using medication to manage your symptoms, and will outline the pros and cons of this approach.
If you decide to take medication your doctor will ask you whether it's okay for them to give you the prescription in conjunction with your GP as part of a shared-care arrangement. They will then ask your GP to prescribe the medication and set up follow up appointments with you.
If you don't have access to the NHS or the NHS, your GP is not required to refer you to an ADHD assessment. This is because GPs are not specialists and are able to refer you to a specialist to determine if you suffer from ADHD when they have determined that your symptoms are causing serious difficulties in your everyday life.
It is possible to self-refer for a private evaluation of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. On their website the Psychiatry UK provides a useful guide on this topic. However, it's an excellent idea to discuss this with your GP first to ensure they understand why you're seeking private referral. If your GP is unable to refer you to a specialist for any reason or refuses to refer you, it could be time to look for another GP.
2. You can ask your GP for an appointment
It is important to discuss the symptoms with your GP when you suspect that you or your child is suffering from ADHD. Being diagnosed can give some relief and allow you to learn more about the condition. It can be difficult, but it is worth the effort for those who want to live as full as possible.
When you speak to your GP ensure that you be clear about why you think that your child or you may be suffering from ADHD. Your GP will take this seriously and may ask you to complete a diagnostic screening tool. It is important to be able to describe your symptoms in detail, for example when you are having trouble managing time or lose items often.
Depending on where you live You may have to wait a few days before you can get an ADHD assessment through the NHS. There are, however, private ADHD treatment providers who can provide you with an appointment sooner. They are frequently suggested in the NICE guidelines, and their track record is proven. They also can provide a more thorough evaluation and treatment for medication, when needed.
You are entitled to choose the provider you want in England when your GP agrees that you should be referred to an ADHD assessment. This is the 'Right to Choose" route. You can find out more information about this on the NHS website. Psychiatry-UK, the main provider for RTC in the UK offers a useful guide to the process. It includes template forms that you can use to convince your GP to make the referral.
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 medical interview that includes questions about your medical history, family history, and current health concerns. The specialist will also use symptom checklists and interviews with your partner or parents as well as input from other people who know you well to assess your symptoms and how they impact your life.
After a 25-minute consultation with a psychiatrist, you'll be discharged to your GP in the event that you decide to take medication for ADHD. Your GP will renew your prescriptions, and you can go to an ADHD specialist for additional treatment like CBT or the possibility of a trial of ADHD medication.
3. Find a Psychiatrist or Psychologist
The GP will issue a referral to see a psychologist or psychiatrist for your ADHD assessment. The specialist will examine your symptoms and determine how to best manage these symptoms. They might suggest medication or cognitive treatment for behavioural issues (CBT) or both. Psychologists are trained to be advanced in psychology and are experts in mental health. They can prescribe medications in Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, and Louisiana as well as in the Public Health Service, Indian Health Service and across the US Armed Forces. They will talk to your child's primary care physician or pediatrician first before prescribing any ADHD medication.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work together to help you manage your symptoms and formulate an effective treatment plan. They will assess the ways in which ADHD symptoms affect your life quality, your work, your relationships and your personal wellbeing. They will also consider any other health issues you have and how they could be contributing to your symptoms.
When you schedule an appointment with a psychiatrist, the first thing they conduct is to inquire about your medical history and your lifestyle. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires to assess your symptoms and how they impact your daily routine. They may also request opinions from people who know you well, such as family members or close friends.
Some people find it difficult to get a referral request for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This could be due to the stigma that surrounds ADHD, or because the GP may believe that your issues are caused by other factors, such as anxiety or depression. Luckily, this doesn't need to be the case.
Online clinics offer ADHD assessments and prescription medications. Some of these clinics are located in the UK and others in other countries. Some of them accept health care insurance and others offer special packages for people who require financial assistance. It is crucial to conduct 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 may be given the option to choose between an individual assessment or the NHS Right to Choose pathway when you are recommended for an ADHD assessment by your physician. This is a new system that was introduced in 2018and gives you the legal right to choose your mental health practitioner (for instance, your psychiatrist or Psychologist). This is a much faster process than waiting for an NHS appointment. Your GP is not required to send you to another service.
Once you've selected the person who will conduct your personal evaluation, he or she will schedule an appointment with you. You can choose to have the appointment in person or via telephone, based on your preference. During the assessment your specialist will ask about different aspects of your life, including your symptoms. They will also request feedback from someone close to you, like your spouse, family member or a friend. They will then be able to prepare an outcome report that they will then send to your GP.
During the assessment your specialist will discuss whether they believe that you could benefit from medication. It can take a while before you receive an appointment due to the global shortage of ADHD medications.
You can appeal to your doctor's decision if he or she refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment. If you decide to appeal it is essential to put your appeal in writing. You can then outline any concerns that you might have about the decision and provide evidence of the impact it had on you. In some instances, the CCG may review their decision and approve your funding. If assessment adhd don't, ask your MP to help get funding approved. You can find an example letter to send your MP here.