How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
The process of obtaining the diagnosis for ADHD is a challenge for those who are interested. But it doesn't have to be.
The typical route begins with a visit at your GP where you can engage in an open, open discussion about your issues and how they have impacted your life since the time you were a child.
1. Talk with your doctor
Your doctor should take your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask questions about the symptoms that you are experiencing. They should also discuss whether they believe you meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD, and what the next steps will be.
They may refer you to a specialist to determine diagnosis. You might be asked to fill out a form that will help the specialist determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. These forms are usually completed online and before your appointment. It is recommended to learn about the various characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD prior to your appointment and then write down some instances of how you have experienced these symptoms.
The specialist will review the completed forms and set up a meeting. It will likely be in person, however you can also schedule it over the phone or via Skype If that's your preference. They will determine if your situation meets the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis and also consider any other mental health issues causing difficulties. They will also ask whether you're thinking of taking medication to treat your symptoms, and will outline the pros and cons of this approach.
If you decide to go down the medication route, your doctor will ask you if you agree to share your prescription with 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. This is due to the fact that GPs are not specialists, and are able to refer you to specialists to determine if you suffer from ADHD when they have determined that your symptoms are causing serious problems in your daily life.
It is possible to self-refer for a private assessment of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Psychiatry-UK website provides a comprehensive guide to this on their website here. It is however an excellent idea to discuss this with your GP first to ensure they understand the reason you want a private referral. If they're reluctant to refer you to a specialist for any reason, or if they are unable to refer you at all, then it might be time to find another GP.
2. Request your GP for a referral
It is important to discuss the symptoms with your GP when you suspect that you or your child is suffering from ADHD. A diagnosis may provide relief and allow you to learn more about your condition. The process may seem daunting but those who want to live their lives as fully as they can, will be able to justify the effort.
When speaking to your GP make sure you explain why you believe that your child or you may be suffering from ADHD. Your GP will take this seriously and may even ask you to complete an assessment tool for diagnosing. You must be prepared to describe your symptoms in detail, for example the case of difficulty managing your time or losing items often.
Depending on where you live, you may have wait for a while to receive an ADHD assessment with the NHS. There are, however, private ADHD treatment providers who can provide you with an appointment in a shorter time. They are frequently recommended in the NICE guidelines and their track record is proven. They can also provide you with an extensive assessment and treatment for medication if required.
You are entitled to select your provider in England if your GP agrees that you are eligible for an ADHD assessment. This is called the 'Right to Choose' pathway. You can find out more information about this on the NHS website. The main provider, Psychiatry-UK for RTC in the UK, has a helpful guide to the process. It 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 that will include questions about your medical history, family history, and current health issues. The specialist will also use symptoms checklists, interviews with your partner or parents and input from others who know you well to assess your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
If you decide to use medication for ADHD typically, you'll be sent back to your GP after a 25-minute appointment with the psychiatrist. Your GP will renew the prescriptions, and you may visit an ADHD specialist for additional treatment like CBT or the possibility of a trial of ADHD medications.
3. Find a psychiatrist or a Psychologist.
Your GP will recommend you to a psychiatrist or a psychologist to conduct an ADHD assessment. The specialist will evaluate your symptoms and determine the best way to manage the symptoms. They might recommend medications, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or both. Psychologists are trained to be advanced in psychology and are experts in mental health. They can prescribe medication in Idaho, Illinois, Iowa and Louisiana and also in the Public Health Service, Indian Health Service and across the US Armed Forces. However, they will most likely consult with your primary care doctor or your child's pediatrician prior prescribing any medication to treat ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists collaborate to develop an effective treatment strategy and manage your symptoms. They will look at how ADHD symptoms affect your life quality and work, your relationships and your overall health. They will also consider any other health issues you have and how they could be affecting your symptoms.
When you schedule an appointment with a psychiatrist, the first thing they do is inquire about your medical history and your lifestyle. They'll also require you to complete questionnaires to determine the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They may also seek opinions from people who know you well like family members or close family members.
how much does an adhd assessment cost 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 difficulties are due to other issues, such as depression or anxiety. This doesn't always have to be the situation.
There are a variety of online clinics offering ADHD assessments and prescription medications. Some of these clinics are located in the UK and others in other countries. Some of them accept health care insurance while others provide special packages to people who require financial assistance. It is important to do your research so that you find a physician who can assist you in managing your symptoms and live a healthy and happy life.
4. Make an appointment
If you're referred to your doctor to undergo an ADHD assessment, you could be offered the choice to consult a private doctor or the NHS 'Right to Choose' pathway. This is a brand-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, since there is no need for your GP to refer you over to a different service.
Once you've selected the service provider for your private evaluation, they will book an appointment with you. You can decide to schedule the appointment in person or via phone, depending on your preference. During the assessment, your specialist will ask you questions about various aspects of your life, including how your symptoms affect your life. They will also seek feedback from someone close to you, like a partner, family member or friend. Then, they will make a report that can be sent to your GP.
During the assessment, your specialist may also determine if they think you would benefit from medication. Due to the worldwide shortage of ADHD medications, it may take a while before you are given an order, so this is something that you must be aware of.
You can appeal your doctor's decision if will not pay for your ADHD assessment. If you choose to appeal it is crucial to put your appeal in writing. You can then outline any concerns you have about the decision, and provide evidence of the impact it has had on you. In some cases, CCG will review their decision and then approve funding. However, if they don't then you can contact your MP and ask them to help to get the funding approved. You can download a sample letter to give your MP here.