How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
If you're trying to get a diagnosis of ADHD the process can seem overwhelming. It does not have to.
The typical procedure starts with a visit to your GP where you will be able to have an open and honest discussion about the symptoms and how they have affected your life since childhood.
1. Speak with your doctor
The GPs you consult with should be aware of your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask you questions about how symptoms impact your life. They should also discuss if they believe you are a candidate for an ADHD diagnosis and what next steps are.
They may refer you to a specialist to get diagnosis. They may require you to fill out a form that will help the specialist assess whether you are a candidate for ADHD. These forms can be completed online 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 impact you.
The specialist will review the forms you've filled out and then schedule a meeting with you. It will likely be in person but it may be via phone or via Skype should you prefer. They will assess if you meet the criteria for an assessment of ADHD and will also look into any other mental health issues that might be causing problems. They will inquire if you've thought about taking medication to treat symptoms and explain the pros and con of this choice.
If you decide to take medication Your doctor will ask you whether it's okay for them to give the prescription to 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 do not have access to the NHS or the NHS, your GP is not required to refer you to an ADHD assessment. GPs do not have the experience to identify ADHD. They are able to refer an individual to a specialist if the symptoms are causing you significant difficulties.
It is possible to self-refer for a private assessment of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Psychiatry UK website has a helpful guide to this on their website here. It is however recommended to discuss this with your GP first to let them know why you are seeking an appointment with a private doctor. If your GP is unable to recommend you for reasons other than the reason that they are unable to refer you, it could be time to find another GP.
2. Ask your GP to refer you to a
If you are concerned that you or your child may be suffering from ADHD, it is important to speak with your GP about the symptoms. Being diagnosed can bring some relief and let you understand more about the condition. The process can be a bit daunting, but it is worth the effort for those who want to live as full as they can.
When you speak to your GP ensure that you explain why you believe that your child or you may have ADHD. Your GP must take this seriously and will likely request you to fill out an assessment tool for diagnosing. You should also be prepared to give them examples of your symptoms, like problems with time management or frequent loss of items.
Depending the location you live in, you may have to wait a while for an ADHD evaluation with the NHS. There are, however, private ADHD treatment providers that can help you get an appointment sooner. They are frequently recommended by the NICE guidelines and have demonstrated track records. They can also provide you with an extensive assessment and medication treatment if needed.
You are entitled to select your provider in England If your GP agrees that you should be referred to an ADHD assessment. This is called the Right to Choose process. 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, which 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 includes questions about your medical history, family history, and any health issues you are currently facing. The specialist will also use symptoms checklists, interviews with your partner or parents as well as input from other people who know you well to determine your symptoms and how they affect your life.
If you decide to take medication for ADHD typically, you'll be sent back to your GP after a 25-minute appointment with the psychiatrist. Your GP will renew your prescriptions, and you are able to visit an ADHD specialist for further treatments like CBT or an evaluation of ADHD medication.
3. Find a psychiatrist or a Psychologist.
cheapest adhd assessment will refer you to a psychiatrist or a psychologist to conduct an ADHD assessment. This specialist will discuss your symptoms and determine the best method to help you manage them. They may suggest medication, cognitive behavioral 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, Iowa and Louisiana and also in the Public Health Service, Indian Health Service and throughout the US Armed Forces. However they'll likely consult with your primary physician or child's pediatrician before prescribing any medication to treat ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work together to assist you in managing your symptoms and formulate an effective treatment plan. They will examine how ADHD symptoms affect your daily life, your work, your relationships, and your overall wellbeing. They will also look at any other health issues you may have and how these might be contributing to your symptoms.
When you have an appointment to see a psychiatrist they will begin the examination by asking about your medical history and lifestyle. They'll also ask you to complete questionnaires that evaluate the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They may also ask you to share your experiences with people who are familiar with you, such as family members or close relatives.
Some people find it difficult to get a referral request for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This is due to the stigma surrounding ADHD or because the GP might think that your issues are due to other factors, such as anxiety or depression. This does not always necessarily have to be the case.
Online clinics provide ADHD tests and prescription medication. Some of these clinics are located in the UK as well as others in other countries. Some of them accept health care insurance and others offer special packages for people who require financial assistance. Find a doctor who can help you manage symptoms and live a pleasant and fulfilling life.
4. Make an appointment
You might be offered the option to choose between a private assessment or the NHS Right to Choose pathway when you are recommended for an ADHD evaluation by your GP. This is a brand new system that was introduced in 2018, and it gives you the legal right to choose your mental health practitioner (for instance, your psychiatrist or Psychologist). This makes the process faster than waiting for an NHS appointment, as there is no need for your GP to forward your referral over to a different service.
Once you've selected the individual who will perform your personal assessment, he or she will set up an appointment with you. This could be in person or over the phone, based on what your preference is. During the examination, your doctor will ask about different aspects of your life, including your symptoms. They will also ask for input from someone close to you, like a partner, family member or friend. They can then prepare a report to be sent to your GP.
During the examination, your doctor might discuss whether you would benefit from medication. Due to the global shortage of ADHD medications, it could take a while before you get an order, so this is something you need to be aware of.
If your GP refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment you are able to appeal the decision. However, if you decide to do this it is essential that you do so in writing. You can then highlight any concerns you have regarding the decision and provide evidence of the impact it has had on you. In some cases, the CCG might examine their decision and then approve your funding. If they don't, request your MP's assistance to in getting your funding approved. You can find an example letter to send your MP here.