How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
If you're looking to receive a diagnosis of ADHD the process may appear daunting. But, it doesn't need to be.
The typical route starts with an appointment with your GP, where you should have a candid and honest discussion about your issues, including how they have affected you since childhood.
1. Speak with your doctor
Your GP should consider your concerns regarding ADHD seriously and ask you questions regarding how the symptoms affect your life. They should also discuss if they believe you meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and what next steps are.
They may want to send you to an expert doctor for a diagnostic evaluation. 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 usually be completed online and 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 note down some examples of how they affect you.
The specialist will go over the forms you've completed and then schedule a meeting with you. It will likely be in person, however you can also schedule it over the phone or via Skype if that is what you prefer. They will assess if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD and will also look into any other mental health issues that might be causing issues. They will ask if you have considered taking medication to treat symptoms and then explain the pros and con of this choice.
If you decide to take medication Your doctor will ask you whether it's acceptable for them to share the prescription with your GP as part of a shared-care arrangement. They will then request your GP to prescribe the medication and set up follow up appointments with you.
It is worth noting that if you're not in the NHS your GP will have no obligation to refer you to an assessment of ADHD. GPs don't have the knowledge to determine ADHD. They can only refer an individual to a specialist when your symptoms are causing significant difficulties.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland It is possible to ask for an in-person ADHD assessment. The Psychiatry UK website has a helpful guide to this on their website here. However, it's recommended to discuss this with your GP first to let them know the reason you want a private referral. If they're reluctant for any reason, or refuse to refer you It could be time to seek out a new GP.
2. Ask my response for a referral
It is essential to discuss the symptoms with your GP in case you suspect that you or your child has ADHD. A diagnosis can ease your mind and allow you to learn more about the condition. The process can be daunting but those who want to live their lives as fully as they can, will find it worth the effort.
When you talk to your GP ensure that you provide the reasons why you think you or your child may be suffering from ADHD. Your GP must take this seriously and will likely require you to fill in an assessment tool for diagnosing. You should be prepared to provide examples of your symptoms, like difficulties with time management or frequent loss of items.
Depending the location you live in, you may have wait for a while to receive an ADHD assessment through the NHS. There are, however, private ADHD treatment providers who can offer you an appointment sooner. They are frequently recommended by the NICE guidelines and have demonstrated results. They also can offer a more thorough assessment and treatment for medication, if necessary.
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 called the 'Right to Choose' pathway. On the NHS website you can find out more about this. The Psychiatry UK, the primary provider that is used by RTC in the UK provides a comprehensive guide to the process. It includes templates that 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 involve a medical interview, which will ask questions about your medical history as well as your family history and current health concerns. The doctor will also use symptom checklists as well as interviews with your partner or parents and the input of others who know you well to determine your symptoms and how they impact your daily life.
If you decide to take medication for ADHD You will typically be sent back to your GP after a 25-minute appointment with the psychiatrist. Your GP will renew your prescriptions, and you can then visit your preferred ADHD specialist for further treatment like CBT therapy or a trial of ADHD medication.
3. Find a psychiatrist and Psychologist.
Your GP will recommend 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 recommend medication or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or both. Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in the field of mental health and have advanced training in psychology. They are able to prescribe medication in Idaho, Illinois and Iowa as well as the Public Health Service and Indian Health Service. However they'll most likely consult with your primary physician or your child's pediatrician prior prescribing any medication for ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work closely to create a successful treatment plan and manage your symptoms. They will assess how ADHD symptoms impact your life quality at work, your relationships and your overall health. They will also take into account any other health issues you have and how they might be affecting your symptoms.
If you are scheduled to see a psychiatrist, they will start the assessment process by asking about your medical history and lifestyle. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires to determine the severity of your symptoms and the impact they have on your daily life. They may also ask you to talk about your experiences with people who are familiar with you, such as family members or close relatives.
Some people have difficulty to get a referral request for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This could be due to the stigma associated to ADHD or due to the fact that a GP might believe that your difficulties are due to other issues, such as depression or anxiety. Luckily, this does not need to be the situation.
Online clinics offer ADHD assessments and prescription drugs. Some of these clinics are located in the UK as well as others in other countries. A majority of them have health insurance, and some have special packages for people who require financial support. It is important to do your research to ensure you find a doctor who can assist you in managing your symptoms and lead an enjoyable and fulfilled life.
4. Make an appointment
If you're referred to your GP to undergo an ADHD assessment, you may be given the option to consult a private doctor or the NHS 'Right to Choose' route. This is a brand new system introduced in 2018, which allows you to choose your mental healthcare provider (such as your psychologist or psychiatrist). This makes the process much quicker than waiting for an NHS appointment, as there is no requirement for your GP to forward your referral to a different provider.
After you have selected the provider of your personal assessment, he or she will schedule an appointment with you. You can make the appointment in person or over the telephone, based on your preference. During the exam your doctor will question you questions about various aspects of your life, such as the way your symptoms affect your life. They will also request feedback from someone close to you, like your spouse, family member or a close friend. They will then create an outcome report which they will forward to your GP.
During the exam, your doctor may discuss whether they believe you would benefit from medication. Due to the global shortage of ADHD medications, it may take some time before you get an order, so this is something that you need to be aware of.
If your GP refuses to fund your ADHD assessment You have the option to appeal their decision. If you choose to appeal you must submit your appeal in writing. This will allow you to highlight any concerns that you have about the decision and show the impact it had on your life. In certain instances the CCG may examine their decision and then decide to approve your request. If they don't, you can ask your MP to assist you in getting your funding approved. Here is a sample letter you can present to your MP.