How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
For those of you looking to get a diagnosis of ADHD, the process can seem daunting. It does not have to.
The typical route starts with a visit to your GP and you will have a candid and honest discussion about your health issues and how they've affected you since your early years.
1. Speak with your doctor
Your GP should take your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask questions regarding the symptoms you are experiencing. They should also discuss whether they believe that you meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and what next steps are.
They may decide to send you to an expert physician for a diagnostic examination. They might request you to fill out the form to help the doctor determine if you meet the criteria for ADHD. These forms can be completed online prior to your appointment. It is recommended to learn about the various characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment, and then write down some examples of how you experience these symptoms.
The specialist will review the completed forms and schedule a consultation. It is likely to be in person, but you may also be able to do it over the phone or through Skype if that is the way you prefer. They will determine if you meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and look at any other mental health issues that are causing issues. They will also inquire whether you're thinking of taking medication to treat your symptoms. They will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this option.
If you decide to take medication, your psychiatrist will ask if it is okay 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 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 due to the fact that GPs are not specialists, and can only refer you to specialists for a diagnosis of ADHD after they have established that your symptoms are causing significant difficulties in your everyday life.
It is possible to self-refer to a private evaluation of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. On their website, Psychiatry UK provides a useful guide on this subject. It is however an excellent idea to discuss this with your GP first to ensure they understand why you're seeking a private referral. If your GP is unwilling to refer you for any reason or refuses to refer you, it could be time to look for another GP.
2. You can ask your GP for a referral
If you are concerned that you or your child may be suffering from ADHD, it is important to talk with your GP about the symptoms. Being diagnosed can provide some relief and let you learn more about the condition. The process may seem daunting however, those who wish to live their lives as fully as they can will find it worth the effort.
Discuss with your GP why you think you or your child may be suffering from ADHD. Your GP should take this seriously and may require you to fill in a diagnostic screening tool. You should also be prepared to provide examples of your symptoms, like problems with managing time or frequent loss of items.
Depending the location you live in, you may have wait for a while to receive an ADHD evaluation with the NHS. There are, however, online adhd assessment uk who can provide you with an appointment sooner. These providers are often recommended by the NICE guidelines and have proven track records. They can also provide a more comprehensive assessment and treatment for medication, should it be necessary.
You are entitled 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" route. On the NHS website you can read more about this. Psychiatry-UK, the main provider that is used by RTC in the UK, has a helpful guide to the process that 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 will involve a medical interview that will include questions about your medical history as well as family history and any health issues you are currently facing. The doctor will utilize symptom checklists and interviews with your parents, partner and others who are familiar with you to determine the severity of your symptoms.
After a 25-minute consultation 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 may go to an ADHD specialist for additional treatment like CBT or the possibility of a trial of ADHD medication.
3. Find a psychologist or a psychiatrist.
Your GP will recommend you to a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct an ADHD assessment. The specialist will examine your symptoms and determine the best way to manage these symptoms. They may suggest medication, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or both. Psychiatrists are doctors that specialize in the field of mental health and have advanced training in psychology. They can prescribe medication 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 care physician or your child's pediatrician prior prescribing any medication to treat ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work closely to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to manage your symptoms. They will assess how ADHD symptoms affect your daily life and work, your relationships and your personal wellbeing. They will also consider any other health problems you may have and how they may contribute to your symptoms.
When you have an appointment to see a psychiatrist they will start the examination by asking about your medical history and lifestyle. They will also ask you to fill out questionnaires that determine the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They may also request that you discuss your experiences with those who know you well, like family members or close friends.
Some people have difficulty to get a referral for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This could be due to the stigma associated to ADHD or because the GP may believe that your issues result from something else, such as anxiety or depression. This doesn't always necessarily have to be the case.
There are numerous 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. Many of them accept health insurance, and some offer packages specifically for those who need financial support. Find a practitioner that can help you manage your symptoms and live a happy, fulfilling life.
4. Make an appointment
If you are referred by your doctor for an ADHD assessment, you may be offered the choice to seek out a private practitioner or the NHS Right to Choose option. This is a new system introduced in 2018, which allows you to choose your mental health provider (such as your psychologist or psychiatrist). This makes the process faster than waiting for an NHS appointment, as there will be no need for your GP to refer you to a different provider.
After you have selected the provider of your private assessment, he or she will schedule an appointment with you. It could be in person or over the telephone, depending on your preference. During the examination, your doctor will ask you about various aspects of your life, including your symptoms. They might also ask anyone close to you to share their thoughts for example, your partner, family or a friend. Then, they will make a report that can be sent to your GP.
During the evaluation, your specialist may also discuss whether they believe you could benefit from medication. It can take a while before you get a prescription because of the worldwide shortage in ADHD medication.
You may appeal your doctor's decision if she refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment. If you decide to appeal, you must do so in writing. This allows you to outline any concerns you may have about the decision, and demonstrate the impact it had on your life. In some cases, the CCG might review their decision and decide to approve your request. If they don't, request your MP's assistance to get funding approved. You can get an example letter to send your MP here.