How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
The process of getting an assessment for ADHD can be daunting to those who are interested. It doesn't have to be.
The typical route starts with a visit to your GP and you will have a candid and honest discussion about your symptoms and how they've affected you since childhood.
1. Talk to your doctor
Your GP should take your concerns about ADHD seriously and inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They should also discuss whether they believe you are a candidate for an ADHD diagnosis and what the next steps to take.
They may refer you to a specialist to determine an assessment. You may be asked to fill out a form which will allow the specialist to determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. The forms can be completed online before your appointment. Before you go to the appointment, it's 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 forms you've filled out and then schedule a meeting with you. It will likely be in person, but it may be via phone or through Skype in case you prefer. They will determine if your situation meets the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and will also look at any other mental health issues that may be causing difficulties. They will ask if you've considered taking medication to treat symptoms and will explain the pros and con of this choice.
If you decide to go down the medication route your doctor will ask you if agree to share your prescription with your GP under a shared-care agreement. They will then ask your GP to prescribe the medication and book subsequent 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 to an ADHD assessment. This is because GPs are not specialists, and can only refer you to a specialist for a diagnosis of ADHD when they have determined that your symptoms are causing serious problems in your daily life.
It is possible to self-refer to a private assessment 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 an excellent idea to discuss this with your GP first, so they know why you're seeking a private referral. If visit this website is unwilling to recommend you for reasons of any kind or refuses to refer you, it could be time to search for another GP.
2. Ask your GP to refer you to your doctor
It is important to discuss the symptoms with your GP if you suspect you or your child has ADHD. Getting a diagnosis can help give some relief and allow you to understand more about the condition. The process can be daunting however, those who wish to live life as fully as they can will find it worth the effort.
Discuss with your GP the reason you believe you or your child might have ADHD. Your GP will take this seriously and may ask you to fill out an assessment tool for diagnosing. You must be prepared to be able to describe your symptoms in detail, such as the case of difficulty managing time or lose items frequently.
Depending on where you live, you may have to wait a while for an ADHD evaluation with the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers who can offer a quicker appointment. These providers are often recommended by NICE guidelines and have demonstrated track records. They are also able to offer a more thorough assessment and medication treatment if necessary.
In England If your GP accepts to refer you for an ADHD assessment, you have the right to choose your provider. This is known as the "Right to Choose" pathway. On visit this backlink can find out more about this. Psychiatry UK, the main provider of RTC in the UK has a manual which includes templates 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 will include a clinical interview, which will ask questions about your medical background, family history, and any health issues you are currently facing. The doctor will also use symptom checklists, interviews with your partner or parents and input from others who know you well to assess your symptoms and how they impact your life.
If you decide to use medications for ADHD, you will usually be discharged to your GP after a 25-minute appointment with a psychiatrist. Your GP will renew your prescriptions and you can then visit your chosen ADHD specialist for further treatments such as CBT therapy or a trial of ADHD medication.
3. Find a Psychiatrist or 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 the best way to manage them. They may suggest medication, cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT) or both. Psychologists have advanced degrees in psychology and are specialists in mental health. They are able to prescribe medications in Idaho, Illinois and Iowa as well as the Public Health Service and Indian Health Service. However, they will most likely consult with your primary care physician or your child's pediatrician prior prescribing any medication to treat ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists collaborate to develop an effective treatment strategy and manage your symptoms. They will look at how your ADHD symptoms affect your life quality, and how they affect your relationships, work, and your overall wellbeing. They will also consider any other health issues you may have and how they may contribute to your symptoms.
When you make an appointment with a psychiatrist the first thing they do is ask about your medical history and your lifestyle. They'll also require you to complete questionnaires to evaluate the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They might also ask for input from individuals who know you well, such as family members or close friends.
Some people have trouble getting an appointment from their GP to undergo an ADHD assessment. This could be due to the stigma that is attached to ADHD or the fact that the GP might believe that your problems stem from something else, such as anxiety or depression. Luckily, this doesn't necessarily have to be the situation.
There are a variety of online clinics that provide ADHD assessments and prescription medication. Some of these clinics are located in the UK as well as others in other countries. A majority of them accept health insurance, and some offer special packages for those who require financial support. Do your research to find an expert who can help you manage your symptoms and live a pleasant and fulfilled life.
4. Make a booking
You might be offered the option of choosing between an individual assessment or the NHS Right to Choose pathway when you are recommended for an ADHD assessment by your doctor. This is a brand new system that was introduced in the year 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. Your GP will not need to send you to another service.
After you have selected the provider of your private assessment, he or she will set up an appointment with you. You can choose to have the appointment in person or by phone, based on your preference. The specialist will ask about different aspects of your life, including your symptoms. They will also ask for feedback from someone close to you, such as a partner, family member or a close friend. They can then prepare a report to be sent to your GP.
During the assessment your specialist might discuss whether you could benefit from taking medication. It may take some time before you receive a prescription due to the worldwide shortage of ADHD medications.
You can appeal to your doctor's decision if he or she refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment. However, if you decide to appeal it is essential to put your appeal in writing. This will allow you to highlight any concerns you have regarding the decision and show the impact that it has had on your life. In some cases, CCG will review their decision and then approve funding. If they don't, request your MP's assistance to get funding approved. You can get the sample letter you can send your MP here.