How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
If you're trying to be diagnosed with ADHD the process can seem daunting. But adhd assessment near me doesn't have to be.
The typical process starts with a visit to your GP where you will be able to have an open and honest discussion about the symptoms and how they've affected your life since the time you were a child.
1. Talk to your GP
The GPs you consult with should consider your concerns regarding ADHD seriously and ask questions regarding how the symptoms affect your life. They should also discuss if they think you meet criteria for being diagnosed with ADHD and what the next steps would be.
They may want to refer you to a specialist physician for a diagnostic examination. You may be asked to complete a form that will help the specialist determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. These forms can be completed online prior your appointment. Prior to your appointment, it is a good idea for you to be familiar with the various symptoms (traits) of ADHD and record some examples of how they impact you.
The specialist will go over your completed forms and set up a meeting. It will likely take place in person, however you can also do it over the phone or via Skype should that be what you prefer. They will determine if you meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and will also look at any other mental health issues that are causing issues. They will inquire if you have considered taking medication to treat symptoms and will explain the pros and con of this option.
If you decide to take medication your psychiatrist will ask whether it is okay for them to give the prescription to 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 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. This is because GPs are not experts, and are able to refer you to an expert for a diagnosis of ADHD after they have established that your symptoms are causing you significant difficulties in your everyday life.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland It is possible to request an individual ADHD assessment. The Psychiatry UK website has a helpful guide on their website here. It is however an excellent idea to discuss this with your GP first to ensure they understand the reason you want a private referral. If your GP is unable to refer you to a specialist for reasons of any kind or refuses to do so, it may be time to look for another GP.
2. Request your GP for a referral
If you are concerned 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 bring some relief and help you know more about the condition. The process may seem daunting but those who want to live as full as they can, will be able to justify the effort.
When you speak to your GP, be sure to provide the reasons why you think that your child or you may have ADHD. Your GP must take this seriously and may ask you to fill out a diagnostic screening tool. It is important to be able to describe your symptoms in detail, for instance when you are having trouble managing your time or losing items often.
Depending the location you live in depending on where you live, you might have to wait a few days for an ADHD assessment with the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers that can provide a faster appointment. These providers are often recommended by NICE guidelines and have demonstrated results. They are also able to provide an in-depth assessment and medication treatment if required.
You are entitled to select your provider in England when your GP accepts that you should be referred to an ADHD assessment. This is known as the "Right to Choose" route. You can learn more information about this on the NHS website. Psychiatry UK, the main provider of RTC in the UK has a manual that includes templates that you can use to convince a 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, which will ask questions about your medical background, family history, and current health issues. The specialist will also use symptoms checklists and interviews with your parents or partner and input from others who know you well to evaluate your symptoms and how they affect your life.
After a 25-minute discussion with a psychiatrist, you'll be released to your GP in the event that you decide to use medication for ADHD. Your GP will renew the prescriptions, and you are able to go to an ADHD specialist for further treatments such as CBT or a trial of ADHD medications.
3. Find a Psychiatrist and Psychologist
Your GP will refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct an ADHD assessment. This specialist will assess your symptoms and determine how to best manage them. They may recommend medications, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or both. Psychiatrists are doctors that specialize in the field of mental health and have advanced qualifications in psychology. They can prescribe medication in Idaho, Illinois, Iowa and Louisiana and also in the Public Health Service, Indian Health Service and across the US Armed Forces. However they'll most likely consult with your primary care doctor or your child's pediatrician prior to prescribing any medication to treat ADHD.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work closely to create a successful treatment strategy and manage your symptoms. They will examine how ADHD symptoms affect your daily life at interactions, your work, and your overall health. They will also consider any other health issues that you may have, and how they could be contributing to the symptoms.
When you make an appointment with a psychiatrist the first thing they will conduct is to inquire about your medical history and lifestyle. They will also ask you to complete questionnaires to evaluate the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They may also request input from individuals who know you personally like 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 associated to ADHD or because a GP may believe that your issues are due to something else, like depression or anxiety. Luckily, this does not have to be the situation.
Online clinics offer ADHD assessments and prescription drugs. Some of these clinics are located in the UK and some are in other countries. Some of them accept health insurance and others offer special packages for those who are in need of financial assistance. Do your research to find a doctor who can help you manage symptoms and live a pleasant and fulfilled life.
4. Make an appointment
You might be offered the option to choose between an individual assessment or the NHS Right to Choose pathway when you are recommended for an ADHD assessment by your doctor. This is a brand new system which was introduced in the year the year 2018, and it grants you the legal right to select your mental health professional (for instance, your psychiatrist or Psychologist). This makes the process faster than waiting for an NHS appointment, as there is no need for your GP to send your referral over to a different service.
Once you've selected the individual who will perform your private assessment, he or she will schedule an appointment with you. You can make the appointment in person or via phone, depending on your preference. The specialist will inquire about various aspects of your life, including your symptoms. They might also ask your family members for their input for example, your spouse, family member or a close friend. Then, they can create a report that will be sent to your GP.
During the evaluation the doctor may also determine if they think you could benefit from a medication. It may take some time before you receive a prescription because of the worldwide shortage of 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 do so in writing. This will allow you to highlight any concerns you have about the decision, and show the impact that it has had on your life. In certain instances the CCG could reconsider their decision and approve your funding. If they don't, you can ask your MP to assist you get funding approved. Here's an example of a letter you can give to your MP.