How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
If you're trying to get a diagnosis of ADHD the process may seem daunting. But, it doesn't need to be.
The typical route begins with a visit at your GP where you will be able to have an open, honest discussion about your symptoms and how they have affected your life since the time you were a child.
1. Talk to your doctor
Your GP should be aware of your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask questions about how symptoms impact your life. They should also discuss whether they believe you have the right criteria to receive an ADHD diagnosis and what the next steps are.
They may decide to refer you to an expert clinician for a diagnostic assessment. They might request you to fill out a form that will help the doctor determine if you meet the criteria for ADHD. These forms can be completed online before your appointment. It is also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the various traits (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment, and note down examples of how you experience these symptoms.
The specialist will review your completed forms and schedule a consultation. It will likely be in person, however it could be over the phone or through Skype in case you prefer. They will assess if you meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD and consider any other mental health issues that might be causing issues. They will inquire if you have considered taking medication to manage symptoms and then explain the pros and cons of this option.
If you decide to go down the route of medication, your psychiatrist will ask if you agree to give your prescription to your GP under a shared care agreement. They will ask your GP to prescribe medication and schedule 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. GPs don't have the experience to diagnose ADHD. They are able to refer an individual to a specialist if your symptoms are causing significant difficulties.
It is possible to self-refer for a confidential assessment of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Psychiatry-UK have a great guide to this on their website here. It is however a good idea to discuss this with your GP first to ensure they understand the reason you want a private referral. If they're not willing to refer you to refer you for any reason, or refuse to refer you at all, then it might be time to seek out a new GP.
2. You can ask your GP for an appointment
It is crucial to discuss the symptoms with your GP when you suspect that you or your child has ADHD. Getting a diagnosis can help provide some relief and let you learn more about the condition. It can be difficult but it's worth the effort for those who wish to live as full as they can.
Explain to your GP the reason you believe you or your child may be suffering from ADHD. Your GP must take this seriously and may ask you to fill out a diagnostic screening tool. You should be prepared to provide examples of your symptoms, such as trouble with time management or frequent loss of items.
Based on the location you are in depending on your location, you might have to wait for a while before you can receive an ADHD assessment from the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers who offer faster appointments. They are frequently suggested in the NICE guidelines and their track record is established. They are also able to provide an in-depth evaluation and treatment for any medication required.
You have the right to select your provider in England when your GP agrees that you should be referred to an ADHD assessment. This is the "Right to Choose" route. You can find out more information about this on the NHS website. Psychiatry UK, the main provider of RTC in the UK offers a guideline that includes templates that 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, family history, and any health issues you are currently facing. The doctor will utilize symptoms checklists and interviews with your parents, partner and other family members who are familiar with your condition to assess your symptoms.
After a 25-minute discussion with a psychiatrist, you'll get discharged to your GP if you decide to take medication for ADHD. Your GP will renew your prescriptions and you can then visit your chosen ADHD specialist for further treatment, such as CBT therapy or an evaluation of ADHD medication.
3. Find a psychiatrist or a Psychologist.
Your GP will refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct an ADHD assessment. This specialist will discuss your symptoms and determine the best method to help you manage these symptoms. They may recommend medications, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or both. Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in the field of mental health and hold advanced degrees 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. However they'll likely consult with your primary physician or child's pediatrician before prescribing any medication for ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work together to develop an effective treatment strategy and manage your symptoms. They will look at how ADHD symptoms affect your daily life, your interactions, your work, and your overall health. They will also take into account any other health issues you have and how they might contribute to your symptoms.
When you have an appointment to see a psychiatrist, they will start the examination by asking about your lifestyle and medical history. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires to assess your symptoms and their impact on your daily routine. They might also request that you share your experiences with people who know you well, like family members or close friends.
Some people are unable to get an appointment from their GP for an ADHD assessment. This could be due to the stigma attached to ADHD or due to the fact that a GP may think that your difficulties result from something else, such as depression or anxiety. Luckily, this doesn't necessarily have to be the situation.
There are a variety of online clinics that provide ADHD assessments and prescription medications. Some of these clinics are located in the UK and some are in other countries. A majority of them are covered by health insurance, and a few offer packages specifically for those who require financial support. Do your research to find a practitioner that can help you manage symptoms and live a happy, fulfilling life.
4. Make an appointment
You could be offered the option to choose between an individual assessment or the NHS Right to Choose pathway in the event that you are referred to an ADHD evaluation by your GP. This is a new system introduced in 2018, which gives you the right to choose your mental health provider (such as your psychiatrist or psychologist). This makes the process quicker than waiting for an NHS appointment, as there is no need for your GP to refer you to a different health service.
Once you've selected the individual who will perform your private evaluation, he or she will schedule an appointment with you. This could be in person or by telephone, based on what your preference is. The specialist will ask you about various aspects of your life, including your symptoms. They may also request anyone close to you for their input, such as your partner, family or a close friend. They will then prepare an outcome report that they will then forward to your GP.
During the assessment your specialist might discuss whether you could benefit from taking medication. Due to the global shortage of ADHD medication, it can take a while before you receive a prescription, so this is something that you should be aware of.
You may appeal your doctor's decision in the event that he or they refuse to pay for your ADHD assessment. If you choose to appeal it must be done 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 camhs adhd assessment , the CCG may examine their decision and then decide to approve your request. If they don't you can call your MP and ask them to to get the funding approved. Here is a sample letter you can present to your MP.