How to Get an ADHD Assessment in the UK
It can be a challenge to get an ADHD assessment However, it is crucial that you follow the correct steps. First, talk to your GP and explain the reason you think you might have ADHD. Your GP should take you seriously and ask you to fill out a screening tool.
You can also self-refer to a private medical professional to get an ADHD assessment. This option is much quicker than using the NHS.
1. Speak to your doctor
In the UK there is an increasing awareness of ADHD. However, how much does an adhd assessment cost can make it difficult for people to be diagnosed. These include the notion that ADHD is only a problem for boys, people with certain backgrounds, or who don't conform to the stereotype of someone who has ADHD.
If your GP is unable to recommend you for an examination, it's worth taking a look at a different one, especially if you want to pursue a Right to Choose referral for medication through the NHS. Here's a helpful guide from Psychiatry UK which can assist you.
A typical ADHD assessment involves a series conversations with a psychiatrist about your symptoms, as well as questionnaires. You might also be asked about your family history and the impact your symptoms have on you. They may also inquire whether you have any other health problems.
2. Have your GP to refer you
In England the UK, GPs can refer adults suffering from ADHD to psychiatrists using the "Right to Choose" process. This will allow you to access the NHS quicker and reduce the time it takes to wait.
Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and have a candid and honest discussion about the reasons why you believe you might have ADHD. They should also discuss any other mental health issues impacting your life.
If your GP decides to refer you to the NHS for an evaluation, they should follow NICE guidelines. They will conduct an interview and questionnaires assessing your symptoms and family history, as well as information from those who know you well. A diagnosis can aid you in getting the support you need, including medication and CBT therapy. The medications for ADHD are stimulants and can only be prescribed by a specialist doctor. Once you have a private diagnosis, your doctor will write to your GP asking for a prescription under a 'Shared-Care Agreement'.
3. Ask your GP to recommend you to a Psychiatrist
ADHD can be a debilitating condition. It can be challenging to keep up in school and at work, as well as in relationships. It can also impact your health and trigger a range of other mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
The NHS offers specialized ADHD tests through a process called Right to Choose (RTC). This is a legal right that you have in England.
You'll see a psychiatrist during your appointment. They will ask you questions about your symptoms and your family history. It's helpful to bring evidence such as performance evaluations or copies of your previous results of psychological tests. They may also want to talk to your parents or other individuals who know you well. They will then decide whether they are able to determine that you have ADHD. They may recommend that you think about medications. They will also discuss ongoing care, which could include private treatment or a discharge back to your GP.
4. Request your doctor to refer you to a Neurodevelopmental Service
The process of getting an ADHD assessment can take a long time especially if you reside in an area that has a limited number of providers. The NHS psychiatrist will ask you questions to determine the severity of your symptoms, and then talk with you about your issues. They may also ask people in your life who know you well (spouse siblings, parents or sibling for adults) to describe your behaviours. This can provide a level of personal insight that is not available through questionnaires.
The specialist will provide a diagnosis to your GP. If your doctor accepts a 'Shared care agreement', they'll arrange for you begin treatment through the NHS. This will include prescription medications and CBT therapy. It could take a while - the NHS is under strain, and resources are scarce.
5. Ask your GP for an appointment with a child psychiatrist
A professional ADHD evaluation can be a huge relief. It will help you realize that your or your child's symptoms are due to a neurological condition and not due to a personal flaw and can help reduce feelings of guilt, shame, and self-doubt.
The psychiatrist will take details from a questionnaire or interviews with your family, teachers and other individuals who know you well. They will then compile the results of their investigation and any possible diagnosis. You will then be provided with an treatment plan that could include CBT or medication.
Adults in England can also be directed to a private clinic by their GP under the Right To Choose scheme. This can be quicker and less expensive than waiting for an appointment from the NHS. However, you'll be paying for the examination yourself.
6. Ask your GP for a referral to a Child Neurodevelopmental Services
If you suspect you or your child have ADHD It's a good idea to ask your GP to refer you for an assessment. A clinical diagnosis can help you to access reasonable adjustments and DSA. It can also be useful for establishing whether medication would be beneficial.
The NHS has guidelines on how to identify and diagnose ADHD. The process involves an interview with psychiatrists, a review of your medical and developmental history as well as questionnaires. Interviews can also be conducted with family members or other people who know you well.
The symptoms must be evident in at least two settings (such as school, home and at work) and cause impairment. The behavior cannot be caused by another mental illness such as depression or anxiety. A psychiatrist is typically the one to make the diagnosis. A private examination is the same procedure. However, the doctor will also check for comorbidities.
7. Ask your GP for a referral to a child psychiatrist
You'll need to talk to an Psychologist to obtain an assessment and diagnosis for if you want to try medication. They will require you to complete an inventory of ADHD traits (symptoms) and how they impact your life. They will also assess whether your symptoms have been present since you were a kid.
Your doctor should be able to refer you to the NHS Psychiatrist service if they are of the opinion that you require an ADHD assessment. Adults in England are now able to choose their own mental health provider, and can choose private assessments.
A private ADHD assessment includes a psychotherapy consultation with a specialist psychiatrist and questionnaires, including symptom checklists and behaviour rating scales. Family members or other people who know you well may be requested as well.
8. Ask your GP for the referral to a Child Neurodevelopmental Services
If you suspect that your child has ADHD, or if you have concerns about their behaviour, it's important to speak to your GP. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an assessment with the NHS.
The NHS in England and Wales and Northern Ireland, follows NICE guidelines to diagnose ADHD. In Scotland, the Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network Guidelines (SIGN) are followed.
The NHS in England also has an option called 'Right To Choose This means that you have the legal right to decide where you receive your medical treatment and assessments. It isn't easy to find organizations that are qualified. Many people prefer to have their examinations or treatments performed in private. If you choose this option, your clinician must write to your GP and submit paperwork for a Shared-Care agreement. You will be paying for your medication on your own, whereas the NHS should cover CBT.
9. Ask your GP for the referral to a child psychiatrist
It can take some time to get an evaluation in the NHS. The NHS mental health clinicians work under immense stress, and resources are not abundant. Additionally it can be a challenge to navigate the maze of the NHS system.
A private ADHD assessment is much quicker. It will include a thorough assessment with an adult ADHD specialist. This will include your medical history, developmental landmarks, family history and current symptoms. Self-reporting forms will be used to gather additional information about your symptoms, as well as the impact they have on your daily activities. People who know you well, for example your spouse, sibling or friend, may also be gathered to provide additional information.
It is important to remember that in England citizens have the legal right of choosing their provider of NHS assessments by following the "Right to Choose" route. This could reduce the time spent waiting.
10. Ask your GP to refer you to a Child Neurodevelopmental Service
The process to get a NHS diagnosis is relatively simple. You'll have to request your GP for the referral to an ADHD specialist, and then wait to be assessed.
You will have a clinical consultation with a specialist. They will ask you about your medical background, developmental milestones and your family history as along with the symptoms you are experiencing. You might be asked to complete the checklist of symptoms or seek feedback from people who are familiar with you.
If your GP won't refer you for an examination, it's worth finding a new GP. This is especially true if you intend to apply for a Shared-Care Agreement with the NHS in the near future to receive medications. There are some useful suggestions on how to do this on the Psychiatry UK website. You can also contact private assessment providers directly.