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How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
For those of you looking to be diagnosed with ADHD, the process can seem overwhelming. But, it doesn't need to be.
The usual route begins with an appointment with your GP and you will have a candid and honest discussion about your health issues and how they've affected you since your early years.
1. Talk to your doctor
Your doctor should take your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask questions regarding the symptoms you are experiencing. They should also determine if they believe that you are a candidate for an ADHD diagnosis and what the next steps are.
They may refer you to a specialist clinician for a diagnosis. You might be required to fill out a form which will allow the specialist to determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. These forms can usually be completed online and before your appointment. Before you go to the appointment, it's recommended to familiarise with the different symptoms (traits) of ADHD and record some examples of how they impact you.
The specialist will go over 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 in case you prefer. They will assess if you meet the criteria for an assessment of ADHD and consider any other mental health issues that could be causing difficulties. They will also inquire if you are considering using medication to manage your symptoms, and will outline the pros and cons of this option.
If you decide to take medication, your doctor will ask you if it is acceptable for them to share the prescription with your GP as part of a shared care arrangement. They will ask your GP to prescribe medications 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 for an ADHD assessment. GPs do not have the experience to determine ADHD. They are able to refer a patient to a specialist if your symptoms are causing significant difficulties.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland It is possible to refer yourself for a private ADHD assessment. On their website Psychiatry UK provides a useful guide on this subject. However, it's recommended to discuss this with your GP first, so they know why you're seeking an appointment with a private doctor. If they're reluctant to refer you for any reason, or refuse to refer you it could be time to find another GP.
2. Ask your GP for a referral
It is important to discuss the symptoms with your GP when you suspect that you or your child has ADHD. A diagnosis can ease your mind and assist you in learning more about your condition. It can be a daunting process but those who want to live their lives as fully as they can will appreciate the effort.
When speaking to your GP, be sure to be clear about why you think that your child or you may be suffering from ADHD. Your GP should be aware of this and will likely require you to fill in a diagnostic screening tool. You should be prepared to give them examples of your symptoms, for example difficulties with time management or frequent loss of items.
Based on the location you are in, you may need to wait a few days before you can receive an ADHD assessment from the NHS. Fortunately, there are private ADHD treatment providers that can help you get an appointment in a shorter time. These providers are often suggested in the NICE guidelines, and their track record is established. They can also offer a more thorough assessment and treatment for medication, if necessary.
You have the right to choose your preferred provider in England if your GP accepts that you are eligible for an ADHD assessment. This is the "Right to Choose" pathway. On the NHS website you can find out more about this. The Psychiatry UK, the primary provider for 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 includes a thorough interview that will include questions about your medical background as well as family history and any health issues you are currently facing. The doctor will use symptom checklists and interviews with your partner, parents and other family members who know you to determine the severity of your symptoms.
If you decide to use medications for ADHD You will typically be sent back to your GP after a 25-minute appointment with the psychiatrist. Your GP will renew your prescriptions and you can then visit your preferred ADHD specialist for further treatment, such as CBT therapy or a trial of ADHD medication.
3. Find a Psychiatrist and Psychologist
The GP will write you a referral to see a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct your ADHD assessment. This specialist will discuss your symptoms and determine the best course of action to assist you in managing them. They might recommend medications, 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 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 care physician or your child's pediatrician prior to prescribing any medication to treat ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work together to help you manage your symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan. They will consider the ways in which your ADHD symptoms affect your life quality, and how they affect your relationships, work, and your overall wellbeing. They will also consider any other health issues you have and how they could be affecting your symptoms.
If you book an appointment with a psychiatrist the first thing they will do is inquire about your medical history and lifestyle. They'll also ask you to complete questionnaires to evaluate the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They might also ask for input from individuals who know you very well like family members or close family members.
online adhd assessment find it difficult to get a referral for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This could be due to the stigma associated to ADHD or the fact that the GP may believe that your difficulties stem from other issues, such as depression or anxiety. This does not always necessarily have to be the case.
Online clinics provide ADHD assessments and prescription drugs. Some of these are based in the UK and some are located in different countries. A majority of them have health insurance, and some offer special packages for those who require financial support. It is important to do your research to ensure that you find a practitioner who can help you manage your symptoms and live a happy and fulfilling life.
4. Make a booking
You might be offered the option to choose between private assessments or the NHS Right to Choose pathway in the event that you are referred to an ADHD assessment by your physician. This is a brand-new system introduced in 2018 that gives you the right to choose your preferred mental healthcare provider (such as your psychiatrist or psychologist). This makes the process much quicker than waiting for an NHS appointment, since there will be no need for your GP to refer you over to a different service.
After you have selected the provider of your private evaluation, he or she will schedule an appointment with you. You can decide to schedule the appointment in person or over the telephone, based on your preference. During the assessment, your specialist will ask you about different aspects of your life, such as how your symptoms affect you. They may also ask anyone close to you for their input for example, your partner, family or friend. They will then be able to create an outcome report which they will then send to your GP.
During the examination your doctor will determine if they think you could benefit from medication. Due to the shortage of ADHD medication, it can take a while before you receive a prescription, and this is something that you should be aware of.
If your GP refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment You have the option to appeal the decision. However, if you decide to appeal, it is important that you do so in writing. You should then mention any concerns you may have about the decision, and provide evidence as to the impact it had on you. In certain instances the CCG may examine their decision and then approve your funding. If they do not then you can contact your MP and ask them to help to get the funding approved. You can download an example letter to send your MP here.