How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
If you're trying to receive a diagnosis of ADHD the process may seem overwhelming. It does not have to.
The typical process begins with a visit at your GP where you will be able to have an open, honest discussion about your symptoms and how they've affected your life since childhood.
1. Talk to your GP
The GPs you consult with should consider your concerns regarding ADHD seriously and ask you questions about how symptoms impact your life. They should also discuss whether they believe you are a candidate for an ADHD diagnosis and what next steps to take.
They may refer you to a specialist to get a diagnosis. They might ask you to complete the form to help the doctor determine if you are a candidate for ADHD. 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 the ways you experience them.
The specialist will go over the forms you've filled out and then set up a time to meet with you. This will probably be in person, but it could be over the phone or through Skype in case you prefer. They will determine if you fit the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and look at any other mental health issues that are causing difficulties. They will ask if you've thought about taking medication to treat symptoms and explain the pros and cons of this option.
If you decide to go down the medication route, your doctor will ask you if agree to share your prescription with your GP under a shared-care agreement. They will then ask your GP to prescribe the medication and book follow up 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 for an ADHD assessment. GPs do not have the expertise to diagnose ADHD. They can only 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. On their website, the Psychiatry UK provides a useful guide on this subject. It is however a good idea to discuss this with your GP first to ensure they understand the reason you want private referral. If they're reluctant to refer you for any reason, or refuse to even consider referring you it could be time to look for a different GP.
2. Ask your GP to refer you
It is important to discuss the symptoms with your GP if you suspect you or your child has ADHD. A diagnosis can ease your mind and help you learn more about the condition. The process can be daunting, but those who wish to live their lives as fully as they can will find it worth the effort.
When you talk to your GP ensure that you be clear about why you think you or your child may have ADHD. Your GP must take this seriously and may ask you to fill out an instrument for screening. You must be prepared to explain your symptoms in detail, for example when you are having trouble managing time or losing items often.
Based on the location you are in depending on your location, you might have to wait a while before you are able to get an ADHD evaluation through the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers that offer faster appointments. These providers are often recommended by NICE guidelines and have demonstrated results. They also can offer a more thorough assessment and medication treatment should it be necessary.
You are entitled to select your provider in England If your GP is in agreement that you are eligible for an ADHD assessment. This is the "Right to Choose" route. You can find out more information about it on the NHS website. The main provider, Psychiatry-UK for RTC in the UK provides a comprehensive guide to the process. It 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 include a thorough clinical interview, which will include questions about your medical history, family history and any health issues you are currently facing. The doctor will also utilize symptoms checklists, interviews with your parents or partner and the input of others who know you well to determine your symptoms and how they affect your life.
If you decide to use medication for ADHD typically, you'll be sent back to your GP after a 30-minute appointment with the psychiatrist. Your GP will renew your prescriptions, and you are able to go to an ADHD specialist for additional treatment like CBT or an evaluation of ADHD medication.
3. Find a psychiatrist and Psychologist.
The GP will provide you with a referral to see a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct your ADHD assessment. The specialist will review your symptoms and determine the most effective way to help you manage them. They may recommend medication, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) or both. Psychologists have advanced degrees in psychology and are specialists in mental health. They can prescribe medications in Idaho, Illinois, Iowa and Louisiana as well as 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 child's pediatrician before prescribing any medication for ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to manage your symptoms. They will examine the ways in which your ADHD symptoms affect your quality of life, and how they affect your work, relationships, and your overall wellbeing. They will also consider any other health issues you have and how they might be affecting your symptoms.
If you are scheduled 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 assess the extent of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They might also request that you share your experiences with people who know you well, such as family members or close relatives.
Some people have difficulty to obtain a referral for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This could be due to the stigma associated to ADHD or because a GP might believe that your issues result from something else, like depression or anxiety. Fortunately, this doesn't have to be the case.
There are many online clinics that provide ADHD assessments and prescription medications. Some of them are located in the UK and some are located in other countries. Many of them are covered by health insurance, and a few offer packages specifically for those who require financial assistance. Do your research to find a practitioner that can help you manage your symptoms and lead a healthy and fulfilled life.
4. Make an appointment
You might be offered the option to choose between a private assessment or the NHS Right to Choose pathway in the event that you are referred to an ADHD assessment by your physician. This is a new system that was introduced in 2018and gives you the legal right to choose your mental health provider (for instance, your psychiatrist or Psychologist). This is a faster process than waiting for an NHS appointment. Your GP is not required to refer you to a different provider.
After you have selected the individual who will perform your personal assessment, the person will schedule an appointment with you. This can be in person or over the phone, based on your preference. During the examination the doctor will ask you questions about various aspects of your life, such as the way your symptoms affect your life. They may also ask someone close to you for their input like your spouse, family member or friend. Then, they will make a report that can be sent to your GP.
During explanation will discuss whether they believe you could benefit from medication. It may take some time before you get an order due to the worldwide shortage of ADHD medications.
If your GP refuses to fund your ADHD assessment you are able to appeal the decision. If you decide to appeal it must be done in writing. You can then outline any concerns you have regarding the decision and provide evidence of the impact it had on you. In some instances, CCG will review their decision and approve funding. However, if they don't then you can contact your MP and ask them to to get the funding approved. You can find the sample letter you can send your MP here.