How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
If you're trying to be diagnosed with ADHD the process can seem daunting. It doesn't have to be.
The typical process starts with a visit to your GP where you can have an open and 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 GP should take your concerns regarding ADHD seriously and ask questions about the symptoms you are experiencing. They should also determine if they believe you have the right criteria to receive an ADHD diagnosis and what the next steps to take.
They might want to refer you to an expert doctor for a diagnostic evaluation. You might be asked to complete a form that will allow the specialist to determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. These forms can be completed online prior your appointment. It is recommended to familiarise yourself with the various traits (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment, and to write down instances of how you have experienced these symptoms.
The specialist will go over the completed forms and schedule a consultation. It will likely be in person, however you can also schedule it via phone or via Skype If that's your preference. They will determine if you meet the criteria for an assessment of ADHD and consider any other mental health issues that could be causing problems. They will inquire if you've considered taking medication to treat symptoms and explain the pros and cons of this choice.
If you decide to take the medication route, your psychiatrist will ask if you would like them to share your prescription with your GP under a shared-care agreement. They will ask your GP to prescribe medication and set up follow-up appointments with you.
It is important to note that if you are not registered with the NHS your GP is not obliged to refer you to an assessment of ADHD. This is due to the fact that GPs are not specialists, and they can only refer you to specialists to determine if you suffer from ADHD after they have established that your symptoms are causing significant problems in your daily life.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland It is possible to request a private ADHD assessment. Psychiatry-UK have a great guide to this on their website here. However, it's a good idea to discuss this with your GP first to let them know why you are seeking private referral. If your GP is unwilling to recommend you for any reason or refuses to do so, it may be time to look for another GP.
2. Request your GP for a referral
If you suspect that you or your child may be suffering from ADHD or other related disorders, it is crucial to talk to your GP about the symptoms. A diagnosis can ease your mind and allow you to learn more about your condition. The process can be a bit daunting, but it is worth the effort for those who want to live their lives as fully as possible.
When speaking to your GP ensure that you provide the reasons why you think that your child or you may have ADHD. Your GP should take this seriously and may require you to fill in an instrument for screening. You should also be prepared to give them examples of your symptoms, like trouble with time management or frequent loss of items.
Depending on where you live depending on where you live, you might have wait for a while to receive an ADHD evaluation with the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers who can offer a quicker appointment. These professionals are often recommended in the NICE guidelines and their track record is proven. They are also able to provide a more comprehensive assessment and treatment for medication, if necessary.
In England If your GP will agree to refer you for an ADHD assessment You have the right to choose the provider you want. This is known as the Right to Choose process. You can learn more information about this on the NHS website. The Psychiatry UK, the primary provider that is used by RTC in the UK provides a comprehensive guide to the process, which includes template forms 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 will include a comprehensive clinical interview, which will include questions regarding your medical background, family history, and any health issues you are currently facing. The doctor will also use symptom checklists and interviews with your parents or spouse and input from others who know you well to determine your symptoms and how they impact your daily life.
After a consultation lasting 25 minutes with the psychiatrist, you'll get discharged to your GP in the event that you decide to use medication for ADHD. Your GP will renew your prescriptions and you can then visit your preferred ADHD specialist for further treatment such as CBT therapy or the possibility of a trial of ADHD medication.
3. Find a psychologist or a psychiatrist.
The GP will write you a referral to see a psychiatrist or psychologist for your ADHD assessment. This specialist will discuss your symptoms and determine the most effective way to assist you in managing these symptoms. They may suggest medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or both. Psychologists are trained to be advanced in psychology and are experts in the field of mental health. They are able to prescribe medications in Idaho, Illinois and Iowa and also the Public Health Service and Indian Health Service. However, they will most likely consult with your primary care physician or child's pediatrician before prescribing any medication for ADHD.
Psychiatrists and psychologists work closely together to help you manage your symptoms and create an effective treatment plan. They will examine the ways in which ADHD symptoms impact your life quality, your work, your relationships, and your overall wellbeing. They will also take into consideration any other health issues that you may have, and how they could be contributing to the symptoms.
When you schedule an appointment with a psychiatrist, the first thing they will conduct is to inquire about your medical history and your lifestyle. They'll also require you to complete questionnaires that assess the extent of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. I Am Psychiatry may also request opinions from people who know you very well like family members or close family members.
Some people have trouble getting a referral from their GP to undergo an ADHD assessment. This is due to the stigma associated with ADHD, or because a GP might think that your problems are due to something else, like anxiety or depression. Luckily, this doesn't need to be the situation.
Online clinics provide ADHD tests and prescription medication. Some of them are located in the UK while others are located in different countries. Some of them accept health care insurance while others provide special packages for those who require financial assistance. It is important to do your research to ensure you find a practitioner who can help you manage your symptoms and live a healthy and happy life.
4. Make a reservation
You could be offered the option to choose between an individual assessment or the NHS Right to Choose pathway in the event that you are referred to an ADHD assessment by your doctor. This is a new procedure that was launched in 2018and gives you the legal right to select your mental health professional (for instance, your psychiatrist or Psychologist). This is a quicker procedure than waiting for an NHS appointment. Your GP is not required to refer you to a different service.
After you have selected the provider of your private assessment, the person will schedule an appointment with you. This could be in person or via the telephone, based on your preference. During the examination your doctor will question you questions about various aspects of your life, including the way your symptoms affect your life. They will also seek input from a person who is close to you, like your spouse, family member or a friend. Then, they can create a report that will be sent to your GP.
During the assessment your specialist will discuss whether they believe you could benefit from taking medication. It may take some time before you get an appointment due to the global shortage in ADHD medications.
If your GP refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment, you have the option to appeal their decision. If you choose to appeal you must submit your appeal in writing. You should then mention any concerns you have about the decision, and provide evidence as to the impact it has had on you. In some cases the CCG may reconsider their decision and decide to approve your request. However, if they do not you can call your MP and ask them to help to get the funding approved. You can get the sample letter you can send your MP here.