How to Get an ADHD Assessment in the UK
The process of getting an ADHD assessment from the NHS isn't always easy. The waiting lists can be lengthy and some people are diagnosed with other disorders that better explain their difficulties, such as anxiety or depression.
Your GP should take your concerns seriously and listen to why you believe you might have ADHD. Your GP will then refer you to the NHS to conduct an assessment.
1. See your GP
In England and Wales you can obtain an ADHD assessment through the NHS and it could be possible to obtain medication if it is suitable for you. You'll need to tell your GP why you believe you may have ADHD and the impact it has on your life. Your GP must take this seriously, and they will require you to fill out several questionnaires or a screening tool prior to they recommend you to a specialist to have an assessment. Adults should prepare an inventory of the specific ADHD symptoms and characteristics they experience on a daily basis. Be prepared to give examples if you are asked.
Your psychiatrist will collaborate with you to determine whether or not you suffer from ADHD and will employ a variety techniques and methods, including symptom checklists, behaviour rating scales, as well as interviewing you along with your family members, friends and others who know you well. The psychiatrist will write an assessment using the information they've received. They will then discuss with you what they recommend, which may be that you have an ADHD diagnosis, and if appropriate, that you start treatment with a medication.
You might find that some GPs are not willing to recommend you for an assessment or will not prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS In this instance, it is best to find an alternative GP who may be more accommodating. The website of Psychiatry UK offers some helpful information on this topic.
In England, it is your legal right to pick the location that you receive an ADHD assessment, as long as the service you receive is provided by the NHS and the cost of the service does not exceed what you would pay for it if you were to go directly to the NHS. If you're unable to achieve progress with your local CCG, you can ask ICAS to assist you in submitting an appeal to the national Appeal Panel. If you live in Scotland, Northern Ireland, or Wales The NHS has different guidelines and rules. You can access services via Right to Choose. Psychiatry UK also has some tips on this.
2. Request a recommendation
There are two ways to get an ADHD assessment, based on the location you reside in. website link is to use the NHS and ask your GP to recommend you. This can be a long process, and you may end up waiting years before getting a diagnosis. Alternatively, you can use the 'Right of Choice option. This is a legal right that allows you to request an appointment with private providers in the event that you believe the NHS waiting time for an ADHD assessment is too long.
If you choose to do this you must inform your GP must accept this, and sign a "shared care agreement" with the provider that you have chosen. Many GPs are reluctant sign shared care agreements for patients who have been diagnosed privately particularly because they lack experience in diagnosing ADHD or prescribing its medication.
In the majority of cases, you can then make an appointment with a private practitioner that you like. Prior to completing the initial assessment, the ADHD specialist will interview you and your child if they are older than 11 years old. The specialist will then provide you with a clear indication of whether they believe that your symptoms could be caused by ADHD, or not.
If it is determined that ADHD could be the root reason for your problems In most cases, you will be sent home with additional questionnaires to your workplace or school. They will then set up a follow up appointment to discuss the findings and explain your diagnosis. This appointment will give you a chance to discuss any possible medication options and if it is decided that medication is appropriate then your GP will be informed and asked to prescribe it. The doctor will also discuss other suggestions regarding support at school or work. The cost of any fees will be discussed prior to beginning. Most private providers offer free advice and support in between appointments by email or phone calls.
3. Go for an evaluation
It isn't always easy to get an ADHD diagnosis in the UK, and it is often misdiagnosed as other mental health issues. The best way to get a diagnosis of ADHD is through an assessment by an experienced consultant psychiatrist who specializes in the disorder.
You might have to wait for an assessment to be done by the NHS. Consult your GP if you're worried about the time it takes to wait. Right to Choose is an exciting new NHS initiative that allows you the option of choosing the organisation to whom you're referred. This allows you to bypass the NHS waiting list and could make the process much quicker.
The psychiatrist will ask you to explain your symptoms, and how they impact your daily routine. They will then conduct an assessment of your clinical condition using standardised questionnaires. It is helpful to be familiar with the traits (symptoms) of ADHD prior to your appointment. You should write down examples, as it is common for people's minds to become in a blank space when discussing their own experience.
The test will consist of physical examinations and interviews with teachers, family members, and colleagues. The psychiatrist needs accurate and complete data to make the best diagnosis.
If the psychiatrist suspects that you or your children suffer from ADHD and he is concerned, he will recommend a treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. This is an additional appointment that may include a range of tests including brain scans and psychological tests to determine the severity of ADHD.
Some people prefer to go private to get their ADHD assessed. This is becoming more commonplace as the NHS waiting lists continue to increase. Based on where you live in the UK there are a number of companies that offer private assessments for ADHD. You can find a list here, or talk to your GP about which option is the best one for you. Private assessments can be quicker than those conducted through the NHS. However the health insurance you have won't cover the cost.
4. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can cause significant problems in many areas of life like relationships or work, and an accurate diagnosis can aid in addressing these issues. Due to the increasing number of people who require ADHD assessments, NHS services struggle to cope. The waiting times for assessments can be lengthy. Some people choose to pay for their assessment privately. This allows them bypass NHS waiting lists and begin treatment sooner.
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD the next step is to create a treatment plan. This could involve medication or CBT therapy. It is important to think about this before you make your assessment because it will help you determine what the most effective course of action for you will be.
Depending on where you live in the UK You may be able to get an ADHD assessment via the NHS. If this is the case, you must be directed to an expert psychiatrist or paediatrician. They will evaluate your symptoms and provide a diagnosis based on the NICE 87 guidelines.
If you are unable to get a referral from your GP You can refer yourself to an ADHD assessment with a private mental health provider. This is usually faster than the NHS method, but it is crucial to confirm whether your doctor will sign an agreement called a Shared Care Agreement with your private practitioner.
If you are tested for ADHD, your expert will ask you questions about your past and present behaviors. They will look for traits (symptoms) of ADHD, such as inattentiveness and hyperactivity/impulsiveness. They will also ask you about how these characteristics are affecting your life now. It is helpful to familiarize yourself with the criteria for diagnosing ADHD and then write down examples of how you have experienced these traits in your own life prior to scheduling an appointment.
If you are diagnosed with ADHD it can be a life-changing experience. It can lead to a variety of treatment options and provide an improved sense of self-confidence for those who were previously not diagnosed. It can also lead to improved relationships and a happier life.