How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
The process of getting an assessment for ADHD is a challenge for those who are interested. It doesn't have to be.
The typical route starts with an appointment with your GP where you'll have an open and frank discussion about your issues and how they have affected you since childhood.
1. Speak to your doctor
Your doctor should take your concerns about ADHD seriously and inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing. They should also discuss whether they believe that you meet the criteria for being diagnosed with ADHD, and what the next steps should be.
They might refer you to a specialist to determine diagnosis. You might be required to fill out a form which will assist the doctor in determining whether you meet the ADHD criteria. These forms are usually completed online prior to your appointment. It is also a good idea to be familiar with the different traits (symptoms) of ADHD prior to your appointment and to write down instances of how you have experienced these symptoms.
The specialist will review the forms you've filled out and then schedule a meeting with you. It is likely to be in person, but you can also do it via phone or via Skype should that be what you prefer. They will determine if your situation meets the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and also consider any other mental health issues causing problems. They will ask if you have considered taking medication to manage symptoms and then explain the pros and cons of this option.
If you decide to go the medication route your doctor will ask you if you would like them to give your prescription to your GP under a shared-care agreement. They will then ask your GP to prescribe the 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 knowledge to identify ADHD. They are able to refer patients to a specialist when your symptoms are causing you significant difficulties.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland In Northern Ireland, you are able to request an individual ADHD assessment. On their website, Psychiatry UK has a very useful guide on this topic. It is best to discuss this with your GP so they understand why you want an individual referral. If your GP refuses to refer you to a specialist for any reason or refuses to do so, it may be time to find another GP.
2. Ask your GP for a referral
It is crucial to discuss the symptoms with your GP when you suspect that you or your child is suffering from ADHD. A diagnosis can give some relief and help you learn more about the condition. It can be a daunting process, but those who wish to live as full as they can will appreciate the effort.
When you talk to your GP ensure that you provide the reasons why you think you or your child might have ADHD. Your GP will take this very seriously and may even ask you to fill out a diagnostic screening tool. You must also be prepared to provide examples of your symptoms, such as problems with managing time or frequent loss of items.
Depending on where you live, you may have wait for a while to receive an ADHD assessment through the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers that offer faster appointments. These professionals are often recommended by the NICE guidelines and their track record is proven. They can also offer you an extensive assessment and medication treatment if required.
In England, if your GP will agree to refer you for an ADHD assessment You have the right to choose the provider you want. This is the "Right to Choose" route. On the NHS website, you can learn more about this. The Psychiatry UK, the primary provider for RTC in the UK offers a useful guide to the process that includes templates that 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 about your medical background, family history, and current health concerns. how much is an adhd assessment uk will use symptom checklists and interviews with your partner, parents and other people who are familiar with you to determine the severity of your symptoms.
If you decide to take medications 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 visit your preferred ADHD specialist for further treatments, such as CBT therapy or the possibility of a trial of ADHD medication.
3. Find a Psychiatrist or Psychologist.
The GP will provide you with a referral to see an Psychologist or a psychiatrist to conduct your ADHD assessment. The specialist will evaluate your symptoms and decide how best to manage the symptoms. They may suggest medication, cognitive treatment for behavioural issues (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 across the US Armed Forces. However they'll most likely consult with your primary care physician or your child's pediatrician prior to prescribing any medication to treat ADHD.
Psychiatrists and psychologists work closely together to help you manage your symptoms and create an effective treatment plan. They will assess the ways in which ADHD symptoms affect your daily life and work, your relationships and your overall health. They will also take into consideration any other health issues you may have and how they may be contributing to your symptoms.
When you make an appointment with a psychiatrist the first thing they will conduct is to inquire about your medical history and your lifestyle. You will be asked to complete questionnaires to evaluate your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. They may also request input from individuals who know you well, such as 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 that is attached to ADHD or due to the fact that a GP might believe that your problems result from something else, such as anxiety or depression. Luckily, this doesn't need to be the situation.
Online clinics provide ADHD tests and prescription medication. Some of these clinics are located in the UK as well as others in other countries. A majority of them are covered by health insurance, and some offer packages specifically for those who need financial support. Do your research to find an expert who can help you manage symptoms and live a happy and fulfilling life.
4. Make a reservation
You might be offered the choice of private assessments 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 system introduced in 2018 that allows you to choose your preferred mental healthcare provider (such as your psychologist or psychiatrist). This makes the process much faster than waiting for an NHS appointment, as there is no need for your GP to refer you to a different provider.
After you have selected the provider for your personal assessment, they will book an appointment with you. This could be in person or over 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 you. They might also ask anyone close to you to share their thoughts for example, your family, partner or a close friend. Then, they can make a report that can be sent to your GP.
During the exam, your doctor will discuss whether they believe that you could benefit from medication. Due to the worldwide shortage of ADHD medications, it could take a while before you get a prescription, so this is something you need to be aware of.
You can appeal your doctor's decision if he or they refuse to pay for your ADHD assessment. If you decide to do this it is essential to put your appeal in writing. This allows you to outline any concerns you have about the decision, and provide evidence of the impact it had on your life. In some cases the CCG may review their decision and approve your funding. If they don't, you can ask your MP to assist you in getting your funding approved. You can download a sample letter to give your MP here.