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 clear that a few of these gatekeepers from NHS CCGs aren't adhering to the national guidelines for clinical practice or their legal obligations to avoid discrimination and health inequalities.
Anecdotal evidence suggests certain private ADHD clinics aren't adequately controlled. This could lead to inconsistent diagnostic thresholds, and assessment reporting that could cause problems when trying to transfer to the NHS.
How do I obtain an medical diagnosis?
ADHD is a mental health condition which means it can only be diagnosed by a healthcare professional with expertise. This includes psychologists and psychiatrists (who are the only qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK). People with mental health conditions frequently experience symptoms of ADHD especially those who have been struggling for a long time. They may feel stuck in their current situation, and desperate for assistance. The NHS can be difficult for those trying to find the diagnosis.
It is possible to obtain an diagnosis through the NHS by asking your GP for the referral to see an expert. Your GP will be attentive to your concerns and should be able to send you to a specialist for an examination however, you may have to wait while the specialist is available.
When evaluating for ADHD, healthcare experts will examine the family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues you've had in the past. To assess your behavior, they will observe you in different situations, including at home, school, or work. They will ask you to describe your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They may also inquire about your relationships, social life and any other activities you engage in regularly.
A specialist will look at all the evidence before making an assessment. They will look at criteria like being unrestful and fidgety at all times, having short-term memory issues, having difficulty staying focused and unable to keep up in school or at work, failing to complete tasks and being extremely active. The diagnosis will be upon the presence of these characteristics in a variety of settings, which affects your performance, and if there is a distinct pattern that has persisted for at least six years.
In recent months there has been a rise in high-profile people speaking out about their experiences of being diagnosed with ADHD. This has led to a rise in the number of people seeking an assessment, which could lead to long waiting times for healthcare professionals. Many patients and their families opt to avoid the NHS by having their health checked at private clinics which can be costly. It is important to locate a healthcare professional you trust and be prepared to answer honestly about your symptoms.
What happens during the assessment?
If you're self-referring or recommended by your GP, the process of assessing ADHD symptoms is similar. The person who is conducting the assessment will ask you questions about how your symptoms affect your life, such as "What issues do you face at home?", "How do your symptoms affect your work?", and "Do you have any other symptoms you believe could be related to ADHD?"
You may need to fill out a variety of forms or questionnaires before your appointment, based on the location you're going to for your evaluation. Making sure you complete these forms as quickly as you can will prevent any delays during your appointment. It's also worth familiarising yourself with the traits (symptoms) of ADHD to ensure that you recognize the signs and how they impact your life in depth.
The assessment will typically include an interview with either 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 a different condition or not (NICE guidelines). The therapist will discuss with you the options for treatment that could include medications.
It is important to remember that GPs, nurses and psychologists may not be as well-versed in adult ADHD as specialist Psychiatrists It is therefore essential to practice and prepare your symptoms prior to going for an assessment. This will allow you to explain the impact that your symptoms are having in a manner that they can understand. You'll need to provide examples of how your symptoms have impacted on every aspect of your life, from work to relationships, and how they have changed over time.
As part of the evaluation, you might be required to take certain tests, for instance an allergy test. If you are suffering from any other medical problems, your therapist might suggest additional tests to test for these issues, too.
If you self-refer, or going through the Right to Choose scheme, it is crucial to know that, even if you pay for your private examination but you will still need to wait for NHS approved appointments. And this can vary between NHS trusts and from one clinician to another.
What is the outcome if I don't receive an answer to my question?
There are a variety of factors that can stop you getting diagnosed with ADHD. Some groups may have a harder time getting diagnosed. For example that they are of color or were assigned female at birth or if they have other mental health conditions like bipolar disorder or depression.
If you're having trouble getting an answer, consult your GP and request an appointment. It is also a good idea to locate a private psychiatric clinic that specialises in adult ADHD tests. They can often offer a much faster service than the NHS.
The psychiatrist will look at your symptoms to determine if they fit the Nice guidelines for ADHD. They will also try to determine the cause of your issues including anxiety, depression or thyroid issues. This can be a thorough process, and it's not always easy for adults to provide all the evidence needed (for instance, they may have trouble finding old school reports that are in the back of the cupboard).
It is possible that you are not diagnosed with ADHD even if your GP accepts. A psychiatrist is able to diagnose ADHD if they believe that your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment. If they believe you do not meet the criteria, they'll inform you why.
In the UK it is legal to seek treatment through the NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in the event that you are diagnosed with ADHD. You might also be able to access medication through an Individual Funding Request, but this will depend on the area you live in. You may be referred by your local specialist to prescribe the medication you want. adult adhd diagnosis uk will recommend Methylphenidate and Atomoxetine first and don't think of long titration cycles.
Joining a support group whether in person or on the internet for adults with ADHD can be beneficial. They can be extremely helpful and comforting and can assist to share your story with others who understand.
How can I receive treatment?
Doctors can recommend adults to specialists ADHD services for assessment and medication. They are typically located in NHS hospitals and NHS community health teams, for instance the Maudsley Hospital in London offers a nationwide ADHD adult diagnostic service. However there are many NHS healthcare providers don't accept these reports, and patients are often blocked from receiving treatment. This is due to lengthy waiting times or rejection of referrals.
Support groups reported at the consensus meeting that many ADHD sufferers seek private assessment and diagnoses to circumvent the NHS's lack of funding in this area. Private clinics provide a more accurate, professional and speedier diagnosis. They can also assist in screening for comorbidities, such as depression and anxiety which are very common in ADHD and can assist with titration until the final dosage of the medication. The cost is ranging from PS500 to PS1,200. Sometimes the diagnosis and dosage are separately priced.
The diagnosis and treatment for ADHD can vary from one person to another. The majority of people are treated using medication. It could be methylphenidates, such as Ritalin or Concerta or atomoxetine like Strateva. Non-drug interventions can be helpful for education and training for families and parents of children with ADHD. Certain people with ADHD have discovered that changing their diet and establishing a sleep-friendly schedule helps. Others have found that hypnotherapy and psychotherapy can help with their symptoms, but the evidence for these therapies is less extensive.
It is unacceptable that a lot of adults with ADHD aren't able to receive the care and treatment they require on the NHS. This situation needs to be addressed urgently by UK governments and regulatory and clinical bodies. People with ADHD must have access to treatment that is free of discrimination and in accordance with their legal rights. To address this unmet need it is essential to create long-term plans for funding and create health, social and judicial services in tandem. The current situation isn't sustainable and the effect on families, individuals and society is hugely damaging. It is now the time to invest in this area.