How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
The process of obtaining the diagnosis for ADHD can be daunting to those who are interested. It does not have to.
The typical process begins with a visit at your GP where you will be able to have an open and honest discussion about the symptoms and how they have impacted your life since childhood.
1. Talk to your GP
Your GP should be aware of your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask you questions regarding how the symptoms affect your life. They should also discuss whether they believe that you have the right criteria to receive an ADHD diagnosis and what next steps to take.
They might refer you to a specialist clinician for an assessment. They might require you to fill out a form that will help the specialist assess whether you are a candidate for ADHD. adhd assessments can be completed online prior your appointment. Prior to your appointment, it is a good idea for you to be familiar with the various 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 set up a time to meet with you. It is likely to be in person, however you can also do it via phone or through Skype should that be the way you prefer. They will determine if you meet the criteria for an assessment of ADHD and will also look into any other mental health issues that might be causing problems. They will also inquire if you are considering taking medication to treat your symptoms, and will explain the advantages and disadvantages of this approach.
If you decide to go down 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 request your GP to prescribe the medication and set up 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 specialists and can only refer you to a specialist to determine if you suffer from ADHD after they have established that your symptoms are causing you significant difficulties in your daily life.
It is possible to self-refer for a private evaluation of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Psychiatry UK website has a helpful guide on this on their website here. However, it is recommended to discuss this with your GP first, so they know why you're seeking a private referral. If they're reluctant to refer you to a specialist for any reason, or if they refuse to refer you at all, then it might be time to look for a different GP.
2. Ask your GP to refer you
If you think you or your child might be suffering from ADHD and/or ADD, it is essential to talk to your GP about the signs. Being diagnosed can provide some relief and allow you to know more about the condition. The process may seem daunting but those who want to live as full as they can, will find it worth the effort.
Explain to your GP why you think you or your child may be suffering from ADHD. Your GP should be aware of this and will likely ask you to fill out a diagnostic screening tool. You should be prepared to provide examples of your symptoms, for example difficulties with managing time or frequent loss of items.
Based on the location you are in You may have to wait a while before you are able to get an ADHD assessment from the NHS. There are fortunately private ADHD treatment providers that can help you get a speedier appointment. These professionals are often recommended by NICE guidelines and have established track records. They are also able to provide a more comprehensive assessment and treatment for medication, when needed.
You have the right to select your provider in England when your GP is in agreement that you should be referred for an ADHD assessment. This is known as the Right to Choose pathway. You can find out more information about this on the NHS website. Psychiatry UK is the principal provider of RTC in the UK has a guide 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 medical interview, which will ask questions about your medical background, family history, and current health concerns. The doctor will use symptoms checklists and interviews with your parents, spouse, and other family members who are familiar with your condition to determine the severity of your symptoms.
If you decide to use medication for ADHD typically, you'll be discharged back to your GP after a 30-minute appointment with the psychiatrist. Your GP will renew your prescriptions and you may 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.
Your GP will recommend you to a psychiatrist or a psychologist to conduct an ADHD assessment. The specialist will examine your symptoms and determine how best to manage them. They may suggest medication, cognitive treatment for behavioural issues (CBT) or both. Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in the field of mental health and have advanced training in psychology. They can prescribe medications in Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, and Louisiana, as well as in the Public Health Service, Indian Health Service and throughout the US Armed Forces. They will consult with your child's primary physician or pediatrician first before prescribing any ADHD medication.
Psychiatrists and psychologists work closely together to assist you in managing your symptoms and create an effective treatment plan. They will look at the ways in which your ADHD symptoms affect your life quality, and how they affect your work, relationships, and your personal well-being. They will also look at any other health issues you might have and how they may be contributing to the symptoms.
When you have an appointment to see a psychiatrist, they will begin the evaluation process by asking questions about your lifestyle and medical history. They will also ask you to fill out questionnaires that evaluate the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. adhd assessments might also ask you to talk about your experiences with people who are familiar with you, such as family members or close relatives.
Some people are unable to get a referral from their GP for an ADHD assessment. This could be due to the stigma attached to ADHD or because a GP may think that your difficulties are due to something else, like depression or anxiety. This does not always need to be the case.
There are a variety of online clinics that offer ADHD tests and prescription medication. Some of these are based in the UK, and others are located in other countries. Some of them take health insurance while others provide special packages to people who require financial assistance. It is important to do your research so that you find a physician who can help you manage your symptoms and live an enjoyable and fulfilled life.
4. Make an appointment
You may be given the option of choosing between a private assessment or the NHS Right to Choose pathway if you are referred for an ADHD assessment by your physician. This is a brand-new system introduced in 2018, which allows you to choose your mental health provider (such as your psychiatrist or psychologist). This makes the process quicker than having to wait for an NHS appointment, since there will be no need for your GP to send your referral over to a different service.
Once you have chosen the individual who will perform your private assessment, the person will schedule an appointment with you. It could be in person or via the telephone, depending on what your preference is. During the exam, your specialist will ask you questions about different aspects of your life, such as how your conditions affect you. They will also ask for feedback from someone close to you, such as a partner, family member or a friend. They will then be able to make an outcome report, which they will then send to your GP.
During the examination, your doctor might discuss whether you could benefit from taking medication. It can take a while before you get an appointment due to the worldwide shortage of ADHD medication.
You can appeal your doctor's decision in the event that he or she refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment. However, if you decide to do this, it is important that you do so in writing. This will allow you to highlight any concerns that you have about the decision and show 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 do not, you can contact your MP and ask them to help to get the funding approved. You can download an example letter to send your MP here.