How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
People with ADHD typically have to deal with a number of gatekeepers when seeking referral assessment, support and referral. It is clear that a few of these gatekeepers within NHS CCGs aren't following national guidelines for treating patients or their legal obligation to stop discrimination and health inequalities.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that some private ADHD clinics aren't properly monitored. This could lead to 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 a mental illness that is only diagnosed by a healthcare provider with specialized knowledge. This includes psychiatrists and psychologists (who are the only qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK). People with mental illnesses often have ADHD symptoms, particularly those who have struggled for a long period of time. This means they may feel stuck in their current circumstances and are in desperate need of help to improve their life. The NHS can be confusing for those who are looking for an answer to a medical condition.
You can receive an assessment through the NHS if you ask your GP to refer you to a specialist. Your GP will consider your concerns seriously, and might refer you to specialists for an evaluation. However, you might be required to wait until a specialist is available.
When evaluating for ADHD, healthcare specialists will review the family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues you have experienced in the past. They will also observe you in different settings, including at home and school or work to evaluate your behavior. They will ask you to write about your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They might also inquire about your social life, relationships and other activities you do on a regular basis.
A doctor will take into consideration all of the evidence before making an appropriate diagnosis. They will use criteria like being irritable and fidgety all the time or having a short-term memory or difficulty focusing, having difficulty keeping up in school or at work, not finishing tasks and being extremely active. The diagnosis will be made upon the presence of these characteristics in multiple settings, affecting your functioning and if there's a clear pattern that has remained for at least six years.
In recent months, there has been a rise in high-profile people talking about their experiences of being diagnosed with ADHD. This has led to an increase in people seeking a diagnosis. This can result in long wait times for healthcare professionals. Many patients and their families opt to avoid the NHS through assessments at private clinics that can be expensive. It is crucial to select the right healthcare provider who you can trust and be honest about the symptoms you are experiencing.
What happens during the assessment process?
The method of the process of assessing ADHD symptoms is the same regardless of whether you self-refer or get referred by your GP. adhd uk diagnosis conducting the test will ask questions about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. For example, "What problems do experience at home?" "How does your symptoms affect your work?" "Do you have other symptoms that you believe could be related to ADHD?"
You may have to fill out various questionnaires or forms prior your appointment, based on the location you're going to for your assessment. It is crucial to fill these out in the shortest time possible to ensure that your appointment won't be delayed. You should also familiarise yourself with the symptoms of ADHD to be able to recognise the signs and their effects on your life.
The test will usually involve an interview with either a psychiatrist or specialist nursing staff, or a healthcare professional. The therapist will assess both your mental health and ADHD symptoms to determine if they're caused by another illness or not (NICE guidelines). The clinician will then discuss treatment options with you, which can involve medication.
Remember that GPs and nurses will not be as knowledgeable about adult ADHD as Psychiatrists. It is therefore crucial to identify your symptoms and practice them prior to when you attend the evaluation. This will enable you to explain your symptoms in a manner they can comprehend. You will need to give examples of how your symptoms have impacted on all aspects of your life, from work to relationships and how they've changed in time.
You might have some tests performed as part of the assessment, such as an examination of your blood to look for any allergies. Your therapist may suggest additional tests to check whether you have any other medical conditions.
If you are self-referring, or are enrolled in the Right to Choose scheme, it is crucial to know that although you pay for your private assessment but you will still need to wait for NHS approved appointments. And this can differ between NHS trusts and from one physician to another.
What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?
There are several things that can stop you getting diagnosed with ADHD. Some groups may have a difficult time getting diagnosed. For instance when they are of color or were assigned female at birth or if they suffer from other mental health diagnoses such as depression or bipolar disorder.
If adhd diagnosis uk adults having difficulty getting a diagnosis, talk to your GP and request an appointment. You can also try to find a private psychiatrist who is specialized in adult ADHD evaluations. They can often offer more rapid service than the NHS.
The psychiatrist will analyze your symptoms and determine if they meet the criteria for ADHD, using the Nice guidelines as a guideline. They will also look for other possible reasons for your symptoms like anxiety, depression or thyroid issues. This can be a extensive process, and it'sn't always easy for adults to present all the evidence required (for example they might 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. This is because a psychiatrist can only be able to diagnose you if they believe that your ADHD symptoms result in significant impairment. If they believe that you do not meet the criteria, they will inform you the reason.
In the UK it is legal to seek treatment through the NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland when you are diagnosed with ADHD. You could also obtain medication through an Individual Funding Request but this depends on the location you live in. You could be referred by your local specialist to prescribe the medication of your choice. NHS specialists usually prefer Methylphenidate Atomoxetine or Straterra first. They don't always plan for lengthy titration periods.
Participating in a support group, whether in person or online, for adults with ADHD can be beneficial. They can be very positive and reassuring and can be a great way to discuss your experiences with people who understand.
How can I receive treatment?
GPs can recommend adults to specialist ADHD services for assessment and medication. They are typically located in NHS hospitals and NHS community health teams, for example, the Maudsley Hospital in London offers an all-encompassing ADHD adult diagnostic service. However, many NHS healthcare providers don't accept these reports and patients are often denied receiving treatment. This is due to long waiting times or the rejection of referrals.
Support groups at the consensus meeting noted that a lot of ADHD patients seek private assessment and diagnosis to circumvent the absence of NHS funding in this area. Private clinics provide a more accurate, professional and faster diagnosis. They can also help screen for comorbidities such as depression and anxiousness which are common in ADHD. They also help with titration of the final dosage. Costs vary from PS500-PS1,200, although often a diagnosis and titration is priced separately.
The diagnosis and treatment for ADHD will differ from one person to another. The majority of people are treated using medication. These could be methylphenidates, like Ritalin or Concerta or atomoxetine like Strateva. Sometimes, non-drug interventions are beneficial, like education and training for parents and families of people with ADHD. Certain people with ADHD have found that changing their diet and developing an appropriate schedule for sleep can help. Some people have found that psychotherapy and hypnotherapy may help their symptoms. However, the evidence for these treatments is not as extensive.
It is inexcusable that many adults with ADHD are unable to get the care and treatment they require on the NHS. The UK government, clinical and regulatory authorities must take action urgently to rectify this issue. People with ADHD should have access to treatment that is devoid of discrimination and consistent with their legal rights. Long-term planning of funding and joined up commissioning of social, health care and judicial services are essential to meet this unmet need. The current situation is not sustainable and the impact on individuals, families and society is hugely damaging. It is time to invest in this area.