How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
For those of you looking to be diagnosed with ADHD the process may seem daunting. However, it does not have to be.
The usual route begins with an appointment with your GP, where you should have an open and frank discussion about your issues, including how they have affected you since your childhood.
1. Speak with your doctor
Your GP should be aware of your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask questions about how the symptoms affect your life. They should also talk about whether they think you meet criteria for being diagnosed with ADHD and what the next steps should be.
They may refer you to a specialist clinician for a diagnosis. You may be asked to fill out a form which will allow the specialist to determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. These forms 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 write 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 over the phone or through Skype If that's the way you prefer. They will determine if your situation meets the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis and look at any other mental health issues that may be causing problems. They will also ask whether you're considering taking medication to manage your symptoms. They will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this approach.
If you decide to take medication, your doctor will ask 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 request your GP to prescribe the medication and schedule follow-up appointments with you.
If you don't have access to the NHS and are not a member of the NHS, your GP is not required to refer you for an ADHD assessment. GPs don't have the expertise to identify ADHD. They can only refer a patient to a specialist if the symptoms are causing you serious problems.
It is possible to self-refer for a confidential evaluation of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. On their website, Psychiatry UK offers a helpful guide to this issue. However, it's recommended to discuss this with your GP first to let them know why you are seeking private referral. If your GP is unwilling to recommend you for reasons of any kind or refuses to do so, it may be time to find another GP.
2. You can ask your GP for a referral
It is important to discuss the symptoms with your GP in case you suspect that you or your child is suffering from ADHD. A diagnosis can ease your mind and help you learn more about your condition. The process can be daunting however, those who wish to live as full as they can will be able to justify the effort.
When you talk to your GP ensure that you provide the reasons why you think you or your child might be suffering from ADHD. Your GP must take this seriously and may require you to fill in a diagnostic screening tool. You must also be prepared to give them examples of your symptoms, like problems with managing time or frequent loss of items.
Based on the location you are in depending on your location, you might have to wait a few days before you can receive an ADHD assessment from the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers that can provide a faster appointment. These providers are often recommended in the NICE guidelines and their track record is proven. They are also able to provide an extensive assessment and treatment for medication if needed.
You are entitled to select your provider in England If your GP accepts that you are eligible for an ADHD assessment. This is referred to as the 'Right to Choose' pathway. On the NHS website, you can learn more about this. Psychiatry-UK, the main provider that is used by RTC in the UK provides a comprehensive guide to the process that includes templates for forms you can use to convince your GP to refer you.
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 include a clinical interview, which will ask questions about your medical background as well as your family history and current health issues. The specialist will also use checklists of symptoms as well as interviews with your partner or parents and the input of others who know you well to assess your symptoms and how they impact your daily life.
If you decide to use medications for ADHD You will typically be discharged to your GP after a 25-minute visit with the psychiatrist. Your GP will renew the prescriptions, and you are able to visit an ADHD specialist for additional treatment like CBT or a trial of ADHD medication.
3. Find a Psychiatrist and Psychologist
Your GP will refer you to a psychiatrist or a psychologist for an ADHD assessment. This specialist will assess your symptoms and decide how to best manage the symptoms. They might suggest medication, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or both. Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in the mental health field and hold advanced degrees in psychology. They can prescribe medication 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 doctor or pediatrician prior to prescribing any ADHD medication.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work closely to develop an effective treatment plan and manage your symptoms. They will examine the ways in which ADHD symptoms affect your daily life, your work, your relationships, and your personal wellbeing. They will also take into consideration any other health issues that you suffer from and how they could be affecting 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 that determine the severity of your symptoms and how they impact 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 getting an appointment from their GP to undergo an ADHD assessment. This is due to the stigma surrounding ADHD or because the GP might believe that your difficulties are caused by something else, like depression or anxiety. Fortunately, this doesn't necessarily have to be the situation.
There are many online clinics that offer ADHD assessments and prescription medication. Some of these clinics are located in the UK as well as others in other countries. Some of them accept health insurance and others offer special packages for people who are in need of financial assistance. It is essential to conduct your research so that you find a physician who can help you manage your symptoms and live a healthy and happy life.
4. Make an appointment
If you are referred by your GP for an ADHD evaluation, you could be given the option to consult a private doctor or the NHS Right to Choose option. This is a brand-new system introduced in 2018 that allows you to choose your mental healthcare provider (such as your psychologist or psychiatrist). This is a much faster process than waiting for an NHS appointment. adhd assessment will not need to refer you to another service.
After you have selected the individual who will perform your personal assessment, he or she will set up an appointment with you. You can decide to schedule the appointment in person or over the phone, based on your preference. During the exam your doctor will question you about different aspects of your life, such as how your symptoms affect you. They might also ask your family members to share their thoughts like your spouse, family member or a friend. They will then be able to make an outcome report, which they will then forward to your GP.
During the exam, your doctor will discuss whether they believe you could benefit from taking medication. It may take some time before you receive an appointment because of the worldwide shortage in ADHD medication.
You can appeal to your doctor's decision if he or will not pay for your ADHD assessment. If you choose to appeal you must submit your appeal in writing. This allows you to outline any concerns that you have about the decision, and show the impact it has had on your life. In some cases, CCG will review their decision and approve the funding. If they don't, ask your MP to assist you get your funding approved. You can get an example letter to send your MP here.