How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
The process of obtaining an assessment for ADHD can be daunting to those who are interested. It doesn't have to be.
The typical procedure begins with a visit at your GP where you can have an open, honest discussion about the symptoms and how they've affected your life since childhood.
1. Speak with your doctor
Your doctor should take your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask questions about the symptoms you are experiencing. adhd online assessment uk should also discuss whether they think you meet criteria for being diagnosed with ADHD, and what the next steps should be.
They might refer you to a specialist to get diagnosis. They might require you to fill out a form that will help the doctor determine if you are a candidate for ADHD. These forms can usually be completed online before your appointment. It is recommended to familiarise yourself with the different traits (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment, and note down instances of how you have experienced these symptoms.
The specialist will go over the completed forms and set up a meeting. It will likely be in person, but you can also schedule it via phone or via Skype If that's what you prefer. They will determine if your situation meets the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis and will also look at any other mental health issues causing problems. They will inquire if you've considered taking medication to manage symptoms and explain the pros and con of this choice.
If you decide to go down the medication route your psychiatrist will ask if you agree to share your prescription with your GP under a shared-care agreement. They will then request your GP to prescribe the medication and schedule subsequent appointments with you.
It is worth noting that if you are not in the NHS your GP will have no obligation to refer you to an assessment of ADHD. GPs don't have the experience to diagnose ADHD. They can only refer patients to a specialist if your symptoms are causing you significant difficulties.
It is possible to self-refer for a confidential evaluation of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Psychiatry-UK have a great guide on their website here. It is best to discuss this issue with your GP to make sure they know why you require an individual referral. If they are reluctant for any reason, or refuse to even consider referring you, then it might be time to find another GP.
2. You can ask your GP for a referral
If you think you or your child could be suffering from ADHD and/or ADD, it is essential to talk to your GP about the symptoms. A diagnosis can provide relief and allow you to learn more about your condition. It can be a daunting process however, those who wish to live as full as they can, will be able to justify the effort.
Explain to your GP the reason you believe you or your child might have ADHD. Your GP should be aware of this and may ask you to fill out an assessment tool for diagnosing. You must also be prepared to provide examples of your symptoms, for example trouble with time management or frequent loss of items.
Depending on where you live, you may need to wait for a while before you can receive an ADHD assessment from the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment centers that offer faster appointments. These professionals are often recommended by the NICE guidelines and their track record is established. They are also able to provide a more comprehensive assessment and medication treatment, should it be necessary.
In England, if your GP will agree to refer you to an ADHD assessment you are entitled to choose the provider you want. This is the "Right to Choose" option. On the NHS website, you can learn more about this. Psychiatry UK is the principal provider of RTC in the UK has a manual that includes templates that you can use to convince an GP to refer the patient.
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 current health concerns. The doctor will utilize symptoms checklists and interviews with your parents, partner and others who are familiar with you to evaluate your symptoms.
After a consultation lasting 25 minutes with the psychiatrist, you'll be discharged to your GP If you decide to take medication for ADHD. Your GP will renew your prescriptions, and you can visit an ADHD specialist for further treatments such as CBT or an evaluation of ADHD medications.
3. Find a psychiatrist or a Psychologist.
The GP will issue an appointment with an Psychologist or a psychiatrist to conduct your ADHD assessment. The specialist will examine your symptoms and decide the best way to manage them. They might suggest medication, cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT) or both. Psychiatrists are doctors who specialise in the field of mental health and hold advanced degrees in psychology. They can prescribe medications 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 most likely consult with your primary care doctor or child's pediatrician before prescribing any medication for ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work together to assist you in managing your symptoms and create an effective treatment plan. They will examine the ways in which your ADHD symptoms affect your quality of life and how they impact your work, relationships, and your personal well-being. They will also look at any other health problems you may have and how these might contribute 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. They will also ask you to complete questionnaires to evaluate the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They may also request that you discuss your experiences with those who know you well, such as 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 attached to ADHD or because a GP may believe that your difficulties 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. Many of them are covered by health insurance, and a few offer special packages for those who need financial support. Find an expert who can help you manage symptoms and live a pleasant and fulfilled life.
4. Make an appointment
If you're referred to your doctor for an ADHD evaluation, you could be offered the option to go privately or use the NHS 'Right to Choose' route. This is a brand new system introduced in 2018, which gives you the right to choose your mental healthcare provider (such as your psychologist or psychiatrist). This is a faster procedure than waiting for an NHS appointment. Your GP is not required to send you to another service.
Once you have chosen the company for your private evaluation They will then schedule an appointment with you. You can make the appointment in person or by telephone, based on your preference. During the examination the doctor will ask you questions about various aspects of your life, including the way your symptoms affect you. They will also request input from a person who is close to you, such as a partner, family member or a friend. They will then create an outcome report which they will then forward to your GP.
During the assessment your specialist may discuss whether they believe you could benefit from taking medication. Due to the shortage of ADHD medications, it may take a while before you get an order, so this is something you must be aware of.
You may appeal your doctor's decision if he or she refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment. If you choose to appeal, you must do so in writing. This allows you to outline any concerns that you have regarding the decision and provide evidence of the impact it has had on your life. In some cases the CCG could review their decision and approve your funding. However, if they do not, you can contact your MP and ask them to help to get the funding approved. Here is a sample letter you can give to your MP.