How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
The process of obtaining a diagnosis for ADHD can be a daunting task for those who are interested. It doesn't have to be.
The typical route starts with a visit to your GP where you can have an open, honest discussion about your symptoms and how they've affected your life since the time you were a child.
1. Talk to your doctor
The GPs you consult with should take your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask questions about how the symptoms affect your life. They should also discuss if they believe you meet the requirements for a diagnosis of ADHD, and what the next steps will be.
They might want to send you to an expert doctor for a diagnostic evaluation. You might be asked to fill out a form that will allow the specialist to determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. These forms can be completed online prior to your appointment. Before your appointment, it's a good idea for you to familiarise with the different symptoms (traits) of ADHD and record some examples of how they impact you.
The specialist will review your completed forms and schedule a consultation. It will likely be in person, but it may be via phone or via Skype if you prefer. They will determine if you fit the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis and also consider any other mental health issues that are causing problems. They will also inquire if you are considering using medication to manage your symptoms. They will discuss the pros and cons of this choice.
If you decide to take medication, your doctor will ask you if it is 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 book follow-up appointments with you.
It is worth noting that if you're not on the NHS your GP is not required to refer you for an assessment of ADHD. GPs do not have the expertise to determine ADHD. They are able to refer patients to a specialist when your symptoms are causing significant difficulties.
It is possible to self-refer to a private evaluation of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Psychiatry-UK website provides a comprehensive guide on this on their website here. However, it's a good idea to discuss this with your GP first to let them know why you're seeking a private referral. If your GP is unwilling to recommend you for reasons other than the reason that they are unable to refer you, it could be time to search for another GP.
2. Ask your GP to refer you to a
If you are concerned that you or your child may be suffering from ADHD and/or ADD, it is essential to talk with your GP about the symptoms. A diagnosis can provide relief and assist you in learning more about your condition. The process can be daunting, but it is worth the effort for those who want to live as full as possible.
Explain to your GP the reason you believe you or your child might have ADHD. Your GP must take this seriously and may require you to fill in a diagnostic screening tool. You should be prepared to provide examples of your symptoms, like problems with managing time or frequent loss of items.
Depending the location you live in, you may have wait for a while to receive an ADHD evaluation with the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment centers that can provide a faster appointment. These providers are often recommended by the NICE guidelines and their track record is proven. They also can provide a more comprehensive assessment and medication treatment, if necessary.
You have the right to choose the provider you want in England if your GP is in agreement that you are eligible for an ADHD assessment. This is known as the 'Right to Choose' pathway. You can learn more about this on the NHS website. Psychiatry UK the primary provider of RTC in the UK offers a guideline that includes templates that you can use to convince an 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 will include questions about your medical background as well as family history and current health issues. The doctor will use symptoms checklists and interviews with your parents, partner and other family members who are familiar with your condition to evaluate your symptoms.
If you decide to take medications for ADHD You will typically be discharged back to your GP after a 25-minute visit with a psychiatrist. Your GP will renew your prescriptions and you may then visit your preferred ADHD specialist for further treatment, such as CBT therapy or an evaluation of ADHD medication.
3. Find a psychologist or a psychiatrist.
The GP will write you an appointment with a psychiatrist or psychologist for your ADHD assessment. This specialist will discuss your symptoms and determine the most effective way to assist you in managing them. They may recommend medication or cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT) or both. Psychologists are trained to be advanced in psychology and are specialists in the field of mental health. They can prescribe medication 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 talk to your child's primary physician or pediatrician before prescribing any ADHD medication.
Psychologists and psychiatrists collaborate to develop a comprehensive treatment plan and manage your symptoms. They will look at how your ADHD symptoms affect your quality of life, and how they affect your relationships, work, and personal wellbeing. They will also take into account any other health issues that you suffer from and how they might contribute to your symptoms.
If you are scheduled to see a psychiatrist, they will start the assessment process by asking about your lifestyle and medical history. They'll also ask you to complete questionnaires to determine the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They might also ask for opinions from people who know you personally 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 attached to ADHD or the fact that the GP might believe that your problems are due to other issues, such as anxiety or depression. It doesn't necessarily have to be the case.
Online clinics provide ADHD tests and prescription medication. Some of these are based in the UK while others are located in other countries. Some of them take health insurance while others provide special packages for those who require financial assistance. Find a doctor who can help you manage symptoms and live a pleasant, fulfilling life.
4. Make a booking
You could be offered the option of choosing between private assessments or the NHS Right to Choose pathway if you are referred for an ADHD evaluation by your GP. This is a new procedure that was introduced in 2018and gives you the legal right to choose your mental health practitioner (for instance your psychiatrist or Psychologist). This makes the process much faster than waiting 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 company for your private assessment They will schedule an appointment with you. This can be in person or via the telephone, based on what your preference is. During the assessment, your specialist will ask you questions about different aspects of your life, including how your symptoms affect your life. They will also seek input from a person who is close to you, like your spouse, family member or a friend. They can then make an outcome report, which they will forward to your GP.
During the evaluation the doctor may also discuss whether they believe you could benefit from medication. Due to the shortage of ADHD medication, it can take a while before you receive a prescription, and this is something that you should be aware of.
You may appeal your doctor's decision if she refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment. If you decide to appeal you must submit your appeal in writing. This will allow you to express any concerns you may have regarding the decision and provide evidence of the impact it had on your life. In psychiatrist adhd assessment could reconsider their decision and accept your request for funding. However, if they do not you can call your MP and ask them to get the funding approved. You can download a sample letter to give your MP here.