How to Get an ADHD Assessment in the UK
It can be difficult to get an ADHD assessment through the NHS. The waiting lists can be lengthy and there are times when people are diagnosed with other illness that might explain their issues better for example, anxiety or depression.
Your GP should listen to your concerns and help you understand the reasons you think you be suffering from ADHD. They should then refer you for an NHS assessment.
1. See your GP
In England and Wales you can get an ADHD assessment through the NHS, and it may be possible to access medication if this is appropriate for you. You'll need to explain to your GP why you believe you may have ADHD and the consequences it can have on your life. Your GP will take this very seriously and will ask you to complete the questionnaire or screen tool prior to referring you to specialists to conduct an assessment. Adults should make an outline of specific ADHD signs and symptoms they experience on a daily basis. Be prepared to give examples when asked.
Your psychiatrist will collaborate with you to determine whether or not you have ADHD, and they will employ a variety of techniques and methods, including symptom checklists, behaviour rating scales, as well as interviewing you as well as your family members and others who know you well. The psychiatrist will write a report that is based on the information they have received. They will then discuss with you what their recommendation is, which may be that you have an ADHD diagnosis, and if appropriate to begin treatment with medication.
You may find that some doctors aren't willing to refer you for an assessment or not be able to prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS In this case, it is best to find another GP who will be more accommodating. Psychiatry-UK's website has some useful tips on this subject.
In England it is your legal right to choose where you get an ADHD evaluation, provided that the service you receive is provided by the NHS and the cost of the service does not exceed what you would pay when you go directly to the NHS. If book adhd assessment uk are unable to agree with your local CCG you can ask ICAS for help in making an appeal to the national Appeal Panel. If you live in Scotland, Northern Ireland, or Wales the NHS has different guidelines and regulations. You may be able to try contacting services through Right to Choose, and Psychiatry-UK has some suggestions about this here.
2. Ask for a referral
Depending on where you reside in the UK there are two distinct routes you can take to receive an ADHD assessment. The first is to go through the NHS by asking your GP to refer you. This can be a long process, and you may end up waiting years to get an appointment. You can also opt for the 'Right of Choice option. This is a legal option that permits you to request an appointment with a private provider if you think the NHS wait time for an ADHD assessment is too long.
If you choose to do this, then your GP must be in agreement with this, and sign a'shared care agreement' with the healthcare provider you've chosen. The majority of GPs are not willing to sign shared agreements with patients who have been diagnosed privately particularly because they lack expertise to diagnose ADHD or prescribing its medication.
In the majority of cases, you can make an appointment with a private provider of your choosing. The ADHD specialist will conduct an interview and questionnaire with you and your child (if older than 11) before completing an initial assessment. The doctor will then give you an exact indication of whether they believe that your symptoms are caused by ADHD, or not.
If it is found that ADHD could be the root reason for your problems You will typically be sent home with additional questions for your workplace or school. They will then schedule an appointment for a follow-up to discuss their findings and discuss the diagnosis. The appointment will be a chance to discuss any medication options and, if found that the medication is appropriate then your GP will be informed and asked to prescribe it for you. Your specialist will discuss any other suggestions regarding assistance at school or at work. Any costs are agreed upon prior to starting. The majority of private providers provide free advice and support in between appointments via email or short phone calls.
3. Go for an evaluation
The process of obtaining an ADHD diagnosis in the UK isn't easy and often, it's mistakenly interpreted as other mental health issues. The best way to get a diagnosis of ADHD is with an assessment by an experienced consultant psychiatrist who specializes in the disorder.
You may have to wait for a long time to receive an assessment from the NHS. Ask your GP if you're worried about the waiting time. Right to Choose is an exciting new NHS initiative that gives you the option of choosing the company to which you are referred. This allows you to skip the NHS waiting lists and could make the entire process faster.
The psychiatrist will ask you to describe your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They will then conduct a structured clinical assessment using standardised questionnaires. Before your appointment, it can be helpful to write down some examples and become familiar with the signs (traits) of ADHD. It's normal for people to forget about their experiences when discussing them.
The assessment will include a physical exam and interviews with family members, teachers, members, and colleagues. The psychiatrist will require precise and complete information in order to make the most accurate diagnosis.
If the psychiatrist is of the opinion that you or your children are suffering from ADHD and he is concerned, he will recommend you to a program for adults with ADHD. This is an additional appointment that may include a variety of tests like brain scans and psychological tests to determine the severity of ADHD.
Some people choose to have their ADHD evaluated. This is becoming more common as the NHS waiting list continues to grow. There are different organisations in the UK that provide private assessments for ADHD according to the area you reside. You can find a listing here or talk to your GP to determine which one is the best one for you. Private exams are usually faster than using the NHS, but it's crucial to be aware that your health insurance may not pay for the costs.
4. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can cause issues in a variety of areas. For instance it can impact work or relationships. An accurate diagnosis can help to resolve these problems. Due to the increasing number of people who require ADHD assessments, NHS services struggle to cope. The wait times can be long. Some people opt to go through a private clinic and pay for their assessments privately. This lets them skip NHS waiting lists and begin treatment sooner.
Once you have been diagnosed with ADHD the next step is to get a treatment plan together. This could include medication, or CBT therapy. It is crucial to consider this prior to when you have your assessment, as it will help determine what the best option for you is.
You could be eligible to receive an ADHD assessment through the NHS based on the location you reside in the UK. If this is the case, you must be taken to a specialist psychiatrist or paediatrician. They will assess your symptoms and make a diagnosis based on the NICE 87 guidelines.
Self-referral is an option even if you don't have GP referral. A private mental health provider will conduct an ADHD assessment. This is often faster than the NHS option, however you should check that your GP accepts the "Shared Care Agreement" with your private physician.
If you are tested for ADHD the doctor will ask you questions about your past and present behaviours. They will look for traits (symptoms) of ADHD, such as inattentiveness and hyperactivity/impulsiveness. They will also inquire about how these traits impact your daily life. Before you go to an appointment, it is beneficial to be familiar with the criteria used to diagnose ADHD and to write examples of how these characteristics have affected your life.
A diagnosis of ADHD can transform your life. It can open the doors to a variety of treatment options and may provide an understanding of oneself and awareness that some previously undiagnosed adults find particularly beneficial. It can also lead to better relationships and a more fulfilling life.