How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
GPs can refer you for an NHS ADHD assessment. If you are waiting a long time you can consult your GP to use Right to Choose law which gives patients the right to choose their preferred provider.
A psychiatrist will conduct a structured meeting to evaluate your symptoms and your impact on various aspects of your life. They will ask for evidence, including childhood histories school reports may be requested.
Find a Psychiatrist
They can prescribe medication for ADHD. They may also provide talk therapy. If you have health insurance then the cost of your psychiatrist's visit should be covered. If you're unsure if the psychiatrist you are seeking is within your network, contact your insurance provider to find out. You could also request your GP to recommend you to a psychiatrist specialist or search online for local services. If you don't have insurance, you may opt for an independent service. However, make sure that the Psychiatrist you choose is licensed and has worked with ADHD patients.
Many medical professionals have preconceived notions of what a person with ADHD is like. This can be a problem when trying to establish a diagnosis. A lot of medical professionals do not have the required knowledge or training to diagnose adult ADHD. You'll need to do some work to locate an adult ADHD specialist who is able to assess your symptoms and diagnose you correctly.
It is important to develop an established relationship of trust with your psychiatrist once you've discovered one. This is important, especially if you plan to begin taking medication for ADHD. If you're uncomfortable with your psychiatrist, think about seeking out an alternative. It is crucial to be comfortable with your doctor but you should not settle for anything less.
Your GP can refer you to an adult ADHD specialist for a clinical assessment. The process usually involves a questionnaire, and a discussion between you and the psychologist about your ADHD symptoms in different social settings. The psychologist will then analyze your results and determine if you meet the criteria for an adult ADHD diagnosis.
In England You can choose the place where you receive your NHS assessments. The NHS offers a list of providers, and you can make use of your right to Choose to select the provider that is most suitable for you. Some of these providers offer online assessments for adults which can cut waiting times by a considerable amount.
Ask your GP
If you have an GP who is well-aware of ADHD they may be happy to refer you to an NHS diagnosis. In the UK this will require a clinical interview with a psychiatrist or psychologist (not nurses) that will include a questionnaire on ADHD symptoms as well as your medical history, and your family mental health background. It is also possible that neuropsychological tests will be conducted along with the interview. This will give you more information about your strengths, weaknesses, and comorbid conditions that may influence your ADHD.
Your GP may also be able to assist by writing a letter to let them know that you want to be referred for an assessment under Right to Choose. Print out an example and present it to your GP. If they are unable to do this for any reason, it could be worth switching your GP, especially when you intend to to apply for an Shared Care Agreement for medication later on.
If your GP accepts to refer you to a specialist, then you'll have to wait a few days before meeting with the specialist. Making preparations for the interview is vital since it will be focused on your ADHD symptoms and how they are affecting your life today. You will be asked for examples and to discuss how you've performed in different areas of your life.
After you've been officially diagnosed, your physician will provide you with advice on treatment options. These treatments could include talking therapy, behavioural interventions and prescription drugs. You will be provided with advice on how to manage ADHD and the report will contain suggestions for treatment that is ongoing. If you are a student, it is likely that your therapist will recommend a shared care arrangement with your GP to prescribe medications for you.
There are a lot of professionals in the UK, from GPs to psychologists and nurses who are not knowledgeable about ADHD. This can make getting a diagnosis and accessing treatment difficult. You might be told that you don't need treatment since you are not hyperactive. Also, adults don't get treated. Or that children don't develop ADHD. It's not easy to find a specialist who can listen and comprehend the issue.
Right to choose
If you reside in England and your GP agrees to refer you to an ADHD assessment You have a legal right to choose the provider you wish to be referred to. This is called the "Right to Choose". The only requirement is that the chosen provider is registered under an NHS Standard Contract with your CCG or NHS England for the required service. It is also recommended to know the waiting times for the service of your choice prior to deciding to contact them. You can learn more by calling the provider directly or contacting your GP.
It is important to remember that GPs are only general practitioners and are not experts in diagnosing mental health issues, including adult ADHD. So, you might have to convince your GP that you should be referred by an expert for an ADHD assessment. If you are unable to convince your GP, you can print and download an email from the charity ADHD UK to give to your GP. This includes quotes from NICE 87 guidance which state that a GP is not able to refuse to diagnose ADHD and only an expert can make this diagnosis.
It is also advisable to ask your GP about their current waiting times for an ADHD assessment. If the waiting time is too long, you may make use of your Right to Choice and choose another provider.
If you are undergoing an ADHD assessment you will be required to fill out a questionnaire and to attend an interview. The interview will typically be conducted by a psychiatrist or a specialist nurse. The interview will focus on your history with ADHD and how it has affected your life. The interview will also look at your current symptoms. It is recommended to prepare for this interview and bring a family member to help you.
It is also advisable to seek advice from your GP to think about possible medication options for you. They may be reluctant to prescribe stimulants, however they should be aware that there is a variety of non-stimulant medicines which can help control the symptoms of ADHD. These include methylphenidate, dexamphetamine, and atomoxetine. In addition, you can also try cognitive behavior therapy or psychotherapy for adults suffering from ADHD.
Private Assessment
You can refer yourself to a private assessment when you don't wish to wait for the NHS or when your GP has preconceived assumptions about what ADHD is (this is an issue that is becoming more prevalent particularly for women, people of color and those who were born female). Psychiatry-UK is the primary provider. They have a guide on their website with templates you can provide to a GP. On their website, they offer a list of providers. Most of them provide both in-person and online diagnosis.
A private appointment is typically slightly longer than a normal psychiatric appointment and will include a structured interview with a psychiatrist. The interview will cover a variety of aspects of your life, and how your symptoms affect your present functioning. They will also consider your symptoms in various environments and situations. It is often beneficial when you have someone in more info your family or a close friend to give feedback. The psychiatrist will then review their findings and notify you of your diagnosis.
They will tell you if they believe you have the right criteria for ADHD or if they believe another condition is more appropriate to explain your behavior (symptoms). If they do not believe you meet the criteria, they will tell you the reason and you can ask them to refer you again.
After you have received a diagnosis, you can decide whether you want to go down the route of medication or not. You will need a discussion with your GP. You might be able to obtain an agreement on shared-care for medication via your GP. This could help you save money over the course of time.
You should not depend on getting an ADHD diagnosis via the internet or self-diagnosis software as they could be a false diagnosis. It is recommended to get a qualified and unbiased assessment in order to get the best results. Based on your specific circumstances and whether or not you're willing to use medication, there may be other resources available that can ease your symptoms. If you are a university student for instance you could request an assessment. They can advise you on reasonable adjustments and the Disabled Students allowance.