How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
If you're looking to get a diagnosis of ADHD the process can seem overwhelming. But, it doesn't need to be.
The typical route starts with visiting your GP where you'll be able to have a candid and open discussion about your symptoms, including how they have affected you since your early years.
1. Talk to your GP
GPs should consider your concerns regarding ADHD seriously and ask questions about how symptoms impact your life. They should also determine if they believe that you are a candidate for an ADHD diagnosis and what the next steps to take.
They may refer you to a specialist to get diagnosis. You may be required to fill out a form that will help the specialist determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. These forms can be completed online before your appointment. It is recommended to familiarise yourself with the various characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD prior to your appointment and note down instances of how you have experienced these symptoms.
The specialist will go over your completed forms and set up a meeting. It will likely be in person, however you may also be able to do it via phone or through Skype if that is what you prefer. They will determine if you fit the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis and look at any other mental health issues causing issues. They will ask you if you've thought about using medication to manage 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 are happy for them to give your prescription to 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 do not have access to the NHS or the NHS, your GP is not required to refer you for an ADHD assessment. This is due to the fact that GPs are not specialists and can only refer you to an expert for a diagnosis of ADHD when they have determined that your symptoms are causing significant problems in your daily life.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, it is possible to refer yourself for an individual ADHD assessment. 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 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 refer you, it could be time to look for another GP.
2. Ask your GP to refer you to a
It is important to discuss the symptoms with your GP when you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD. A diagnosis can provide relief and allow you to learn more about your condition. The process can be a bit daunting but it's worth the effort for those who want to live as full as they can.
Tell your GP why you think you or your child may have ADHD. Your GP will take this very seriously and may ask you to fill out a diagnostic screening tool. You should be prepared to give them examples of your symptoms, such as problems with managing time or frequent loss of items.
Depending on where you live, you may need to wait a while before you are able to get an ADHD evaluation through the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers that can provide a faster appointment. These providers are often recommended by NICE guidelines and have demonstrated results. They also can provide a more thorough evaluation and treatment for medication, should it be necessary.
You have the right to select your provider in England if your GP accepts that you should be referred for an ADHD assessment. This is the "Right to Choose" option. You can learn more information about this on the NHS website. Psychiatry-UK, the main provider for RTC in the UK, has a helpful guide to the process. It includes templates for forms you can use to convince your GP to make the referral.
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, which will ask questions regarding your medical background as well as your family history and current health concerns. The doctor will also use symptom checklists and interviews with your parents or partner as well as input from other people who know you well to determine your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
If you decide to take medication for ADHD You will typically be discharged back to your GP after a 30-minute appointment with a psychiatrist. Your GP will renew your prescriptions and you can then go to 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 refer you to a psychiatrist or a psychologist for an ADHD assessment. The specialist will evaluate your symptoms and decide how best to manage these symptoms. They may suggest medications, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or both. Psychiatrists have advanced psychology qualifications and are experts in mental health. They are able to prescribe medication in Idaho, Illinois and Iowa as well as the Public Health Service and Indian Health Service. They will consult with your child's primary physician or pediatrician first before prescribing any ADHD medication.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work together to assist you in managing your symptoms and create an effective treatment plan. They will look at how your ADHD symptoms affect your life quality, and how they affect your relationships, work, and personal wellbeing. They will also take into consideration any other health issues you have and how they could be affecting your symptoms.
If you book an appointment with a psychiatrist, the first thing they conduct is to inquire about your medical history and your lifestyle. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires to determine the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily routine. They might also ask for opinions from people who know you personally like family members or close friends.
Many people find it difficult to get a referral request for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This could be because of the stigma associated with ADHD, or because a GP may believe that your issues are caused by something else, such as depression or anxiety. This does not always necessarily have to be the case.
Online clinics offer ADHD assessments and prescription drugs. Some of these clinics are located in the UK as well as others in other countries. Many of them have health insurance, and some have special packages for people who require financial support. Find a practitioner that can help you manage your symptoms and live a pleasant, fulfilling life.
4. Make an appointment
You may be given the option of choosing between an individual assessment or the NHS Right to Choose pathway in the event that you are referred to an ADHD assessment by your doctor. This is a new procedure that was introduced in 2018and gives you the legal right to select your mental health professional (for instance, your psychiatrist or Psychologist). This is a much faster process than waiting for an NHS appointment. Your GP is not required to send you to a different provider.
After you have selected the individual who will perform your private evaluation, he or she will schedule an appointment with you. This could be in person or via the telephone, based on your preference. During the examination the doctor will ask you about different aspects of your life, such as how your symptoms affect you. They will also request feedback from someone close to you, such as your spouse, family member or a friend. They can then make an outcome report, which they will then send to your GP.
During the evaluation, your specialist 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 are given a prescription, so this is something you need to be aware of.
If your GP refuses to fund your ADHD assessment, you have the option to appeal their decision. If adhd assessment online uk decide to appeal, you must do so in writing. You can then outline any concerns you may have regarding the decision and provide evidence of the impact it had on you. In certain cases, CCG will review their decision and approve funding. If they don't, you can ask your MP to assist you get your funding approved. Here is an example letter you could send to your MP.