How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
When seeking referral, assessment or support for ADHD, people often encounter an array of gatekeepers in the network. It is evident that some of these gatekeepers within NHS CCGs are not following the national guidelines for clinical practice or their legal obligation to avoid discrimination and health inequalities.
Anecdotal evidence suggests some private ADHD clinics are not sufficiently regulated. This can result in inconsistent diagnostic thresholds, and assessment reporting, which can create problems when trying to transfer to the NHS.
How do I obtain an appointment for a diagnosis?
ADHD is an illness of the mind that can only be diagnosed by a healthcare provider with specialist expertise. This includes psychiatrists and psychologists (who are the only qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK). Patients with mental health issues frequently experience symptoms of ADHD especially those who have been struggling for a long time. This means that they can feel stuck in their current situation and need help to improve their life. The NHS can be confusing for those who are trying to find the diagnosis.
It is possible to obtain an assessment through the NHS by asking your GP for a referral to see a specialist. Your GP will consider your concerns seriously, and could refer you to an expert for an assessment. However, you may have to wait until the specialist is available.
When evaluating for ADHD health professionals will look at your family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues you have had in the past. They will be observing you in various situations, such as at home, at school or at work, to assess your behaviour. You will be asked to write about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They might inquire about your social life, your relationships, and other activities you engage in frequently.
A specialist will look at all the evidence prior to making an assessment. They will use criteria like being unrestful and fidgety at all times and having an insufficient memory for short-term events and having trouble staying focused or keeping up in school or at work, failing to complete tasks, and being extremely energetic. The diagnosis will be based on the presence of these traits in multiple settings, affecting your performance, and if there is a distinct pattern that has been evident for at least six years.
In recent months there has been an increase in the number of high-profile people who have spoken out about their experiences of being diagnosed with ADHD. This has led to an increase in people seeking an assessment. This can result in long waiting times for healthcare professionals. Some patients and families choose to bypass the NHS through assessments at private clinics, which can be expensive. It is important to find a healthcare provider you are comfortable with and answer any questions honestly regarding your health issues.
What happens during the process of assessment?
The process of assessing ADHD symptoms is the same regardless of whether you self-refer or are referred to by your GP. The person who is conducting the test will ask questions about your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. For visit website , "What problems do experience at home?" "How does your symptoms affect your work?" "Do you have other symptoms you think may be related to ADHD?"
You may be required to fill out various questionnaires or forms prior your appointment, depending on the location you're taking for your assessment. Complete these forms as quickly as you can will ensure that you don't have any delays during your appointment. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of ADHD to be able to recognise the signs and their effects on your life.
The evaluation will usually include an interview with a psychiatrist or specialist nursing staff, or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional. The therapist will assess both your mental health and ADHD symptoms to determine if they are caused by another condition or not (NICE guidelines). The therapist will discuss with you the options for treatment that may include medications.
Remember that GPs and nurses will not be as well-versed in adult ADHD as Psychiatrists. It is therefore crucial to identify your symptoms and practice them prior to when you take part in the evaluation. This will enable you to explain your symptoms in a manner they can comprehend. You'll need to provide examples of how your symptoms have impacted your life in all ways, from your work to your relationships, and over time.
As part of the evaluation, you may have to undergo some tests, such as a test for allergies. Your therapist might suggest additional tests to check if you have other medical problems.
You may be self-referring or using the Right to Choose Scheme, however, you'll still have to wait for an appointment that is funded by the NHS. This varies from NHS trust to NHS trust and clinician to clinician.
What happens if I do not receive an appointment?
You could be diagnosed with ADHD in the event that you have a number of factors that favor you. Certain groups might have a difficult time getting diagnosed. For example, if they are of color, were born female or if they have any other mental health issues, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
If you're having difficulty getting an answer, consult your GP and request a referral. It is also a good idea to find a private psychiatric provider that specializes in adult ADHD tests. They can offer a faster service than the NHS.
The psychiatrist will look at your symptoms to determine if they are in line with the Nice guidelines for ADHD. They will also attempt to eliminate other causes of your problems including depression, anxiety or thyroid issues. This can be a extensive process, and it'sn't always easy for adults to present all the evidence needed (for example they might have trouble finding old school reports in the back of the cupboard).
You might not be diagnosed with ADHD even when your GP accepts. This is because a psychiatrist will only determine that your ADHD symptoms result in significant impairment. If they believe you don't meet the criteria, they'll tell you the reason.
If you have been diagnosed with ADHD, it is legal in the UK to receive treatment through the NHS. This applies to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. You might also be able to access medication through an Individual Funding Request however, this is contingent on the area you live in. You could be referred to an expert in your local area who will prescribe the medicine you prefer. NHS specialists tend to prefer Methylphenidate Atomoxetine or Straterra first and they do not always plan for long time periods of titration.
It is helpful to join a support group for adults with ADHD, both in person and online. They can be helpful and comforting. It can also help to share your story with others who can relate to.
How can I receive treatment?
Adults may be referred to ADHD specialist services to be assessed and treated. Most often, these services are located in NHS hospitals and NHS community health teams, for example the Maudsley Hospital in London offers a national ADHD adult diagnostic service. However, a majority of NHS healthcare providers do not accept these reports as valid, and patients frequently face obstacles in their access to healthcare, notably long wait times and rejection of referrals (see below).
Support groups at the consensus meeting reported that many ADHD patients seek private assessment and diagnosis to overcome the insufficient NHS funding in this area. Private clinics can provide a faster and more professional and a more generalized diagnosis. They can also help screen for comorbidities like anxiety and depression which are common in ADHD. They can also help with titration of the final dose. The cost ranges from PS500 to PS1,200. Sometimes, a diagnosis and dosage are priced separately.
The diagnosis and treatment for ADHD will differ from one person to another. The most popular treatment is medication, which can be in the form of methylphenidates (Ritalin, Concerta) or atomoxetine (Strateva). Non-drug interventions can be helpful for education and training for parents and families of those with ADHD. Some people with ADHD have found that a change in their diet can help, as well as trying to establish a relaxing sleep routine. Some people find that hypnotherapy or psychotherapy can help ease their symptoms, but the evidence on these is less extensive.
It is inexcusable that so many adults suffering from ADHD are not receiving the treatment and care they need through the NHS. The UK government, clinical and regulatory authorities need to act urgently to correct this situation. People suffering from ADHD must have access to treatment that is devoid of discrimination and in accordance with their legal rights. The long-term planning of financing, and joint commissioning of social, health care and judicial services are essential to address this need that is not being met. The current situation isn't sustainable and the impact on families, individuals and the entire society is devastating. It's time to invest.