How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
For those of you looking to be diagnosed with ADHD, the process can seem overwhelming. However, it does not have to be.
The usual route begins with a visit to your GP and you will have an open and frank discussion about your issues and how they've affected you since childhood.
1. Talk to your GP
The GPs you consult with should be aware of your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask you questions regarding how the symptoms affect your life. They should also discuss if they believe that you are a candidate for an ADHD diagnosis and what next steps are.
They may decide to refer you to a specialist clinician for a diagnostic assessment. You might be asked to fill out a form which will assist the doctor in determining whether you meet the ADHD criteria. These forms can be completed online before your appointment. Before you go to the appointment, it's a good idea for you to familiarise with the different symptoms (traits) of ADHD and record some examples of how they affect you.
The specialist will go over the forms you have completed and then schedule a meeting with you. It will likely be in person, but you can also do it over the phone or through Skype If that's the way you prefer. They will determine if you meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and will also look at any other mental health issues that are causing issues. They will also ask if you are considering using medication to manage your symptoms, and will outline the pros and cons of this approach.
If you decide to take the medication route, your psychiatrist will ask if you would like them to give your prescription to your GP under a shared-care agreement. They will then ask your GP to prescribe the medication and schedule follow-up appointments with you.
It is worth noting that if you are not in the NHS your GP is not required to refer you for an assessment of ADHD. GPs don't have the knowledge to identify ADHD. They are able to refer an individual to a specialist if the symptoms are causing you significant difficulties.
It is possible to self-refer for a confidential assessment of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Psychiatry-UK website provides a comprehensive guide to this on their website here. It is best to talk about this with your GP to ensure they know why you require an appointment with a private doctor. If they're reluctant for any reason, or if they refuse to refer you at all it could be time to seek out a new GP.
2. Have your GP to refer you
It is essential to discuss the symptoms with your GP in case you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. Being diagnosed can provide some relief and let you know more about the condition. It can be a daunting process but those who want to live life as fully as they can will appreciate the effort.
When speaking to your GP, be sure to explain why you believe you or your child might have ADHD. Your GP will take this very seriously and may even ask you to complete a diagnostic screening tool. It is important to be able to describe your symptoms in detail, for example, if you have difficulty managing time or lose items frequently.
Based on the location you are in depending on your location, you might have to wait a few days before you can get an ADHD assessment through the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers who can provide a faster appointment. They are frequently recommended by NICE guidelines and have established track records. They can also provide a more comprehensive assessment and treatment for medication, if necessary.
You are entitled to choose your preferred provider in England if your GP accepts that you should be referred to an ADHD assessment. This is the 'Right to Choose" route. You can find out more information about it on the NHS website. Psychiatry UK is the principal provider of RTC in the UK offers a guideline with templates you can use to convince the 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 includes a thorough interview that includes questions about your medical background as well as family history and any health issues you are currently facing. The doctor will also utilize checklists of symptoms, interviews with your parents or partner and the input of others who know you well to evaluate your symptoms and how they affect your life.
After a 25-minute consultation with the psychiatrist, you'll be released to your GP in the event that you decide to take medication for ADHD. Your GP will renew your prescriptions and you can then go to your chosen ADHD specialist for further treatment, such as CBT therapy or the possibility of a trial of ADHD medication.
3. Find a Psychiatrist or Psychologist
The GP will write you an appointment with a psychologist or psychiatrist to conduct your ADHD assessment. The specialist will examine your symptoms and decide how to best manage these symptoms. They might suggest medication, cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT) or both. Psychologists have advanced degrees in psychology and are experts in the field of mental health. They are able to prescribe medication in Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, and Louisiana and also 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.
Psychiatrists and psychologists work closely together to help you manage your symptoms and formulate an effective treatment plan. They will examine how ADHD symptoms impact your life quality, your work, your relationships, and your overall wellbeing. They will also take into account any other health issues you may have and how they might contribute to your symptoms.
When you make an appointment to see a psychiatrist, they will start the evaluation process by asking questions about your medical history and lifestyle. You will be asked to complete questionnaires to evaluate your symptoms and their impact on your daily routine. They may also request input from individuals who know you well like family members or close friends.
Some people have difficulty to obtain a referral for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This could be because of the stigma associated with ADHD or because the GP might think that your difficulties are due to other factors, such as depression or anxiety. This does not always need to be the case.
Online clinics provide ADHD tests and prescription medication. Some of these clinics are located in the UK and others in other countries. Many of them have health insurance, and a few offer special packages for those who require financial assistance. Do your research to find a practitioner that can help you manage your symptoms and live a pleasant, fulfilling life.
4. Make an appointment
If you're referred to your GP for an ADHD assessment, you may be offered the choice to go privately or use the NHS Right to Choose route. This is a new system introduced in 2018 that allows you to choose your mental healthcare provider (such as your psychologist or psychiatrist). This makes the process quicker than having to wait for an NHS appointment, as there will be no need for your GP to send your referral to a different provider.
Once you've selected the provider of your private evaluation, he or she will set up an appointment with you. This could be in person or over the telephone, depending on what your preference is. get assessed for adhd will ask about different aspects of your life, such as your symptoms. They may also request someone close to you to provide their opinion like your spouse, family member or a close friend. They will then be able to make an outcome report, which they will then send to your GP.
During the assessment your specialist will discuss whether they believe you would benefit from medication. Due to the global shortage of ADHD medications, it could take some time before you get an order, so this is something that you must be aware of.
If your GP refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment you are able to appeal the decision. If book adhd assessment choose to appeal, it is important to do it in writing. This allows you to outline any concerns that you have about the decision and provide evidence of the impact it has had on your life. In some instances, the CCG may review their decision and accept your request for funding. If they don't, ask your MP to help get funding approved. Here's a sample letter you can give to your MP.