How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
When seeking referral, assessment or support for ADHD People often come across the network gatekeepers. It is clear that a few of these gatekeepers from NHS CCGs aren't adhering to national clinical guidelines or their legal duty to stop discrimination and health inequalities.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that some private ADHD clinics aren't adequately regulated. This could result in uncoordinated thresholds for diagnosis and assessment reporting which could create difficulties when trying to transfer to the NHS.
How do I get 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 ones qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK). People suffering from mental health issues frequently report symptoms of ADHD particularly those who have struggled for a long time. This means that they can feel stuck in their current circumstances and are in desperate need of assistance to improve their lives. The NHS can be difficult for those seeking 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 should be attentive to your concerns and be able to recommend you to an assessment however, you may have to wait until the specialist is in.
When evaluating for ADHD health professionals will look at the family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues you have experienced in the past. They will also observe you in different situations, such as at the workplace, school or at home, to assess your behaviour. You will be asked to explain your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They may also inquire about your social life, relationships and any other activities that you take part in on a regular basis.
A specialist will consider all the evidence prior to making an assessment. They will look at criteria like being irritable and fidgety throughout the day or having short-term memory issues or difficulty focusing and unable to keep up in school or at work, failing to complete tasks and being extremely active. The diagnosis will be based on the presence of these traits in multiple settings, affecting your functioning and if there's a clear pattern that has been evident for at least six years.
In recent months, there has been a rise in the number of celebrities talking about their experiences of being diagnosed with ADHD. This has led to a rise in the number of people seeking an assessment, which could cause long wait times for healthcare professionals. Patients and their families avoid the NHS in order to undergo assessments at private clinics. This can be expensive. It is essential to locate a healthcare professional you can trust and answer any questions honestly regarding your symptoms.
What happens during the process of assessment?
Whether you self-refer or are recommended by your GP, the process of assessing for ADHD symptoms is very similar. The person doing the assessment will ask you questions about how your symptoms impact your daily life, like "What issues do you face at home?", "How do your symptoms affect your work?", and "Do you experience other symptoms that you think could be related to ADHD?"
Depending on where you go to get your assessment there could be various forms or questionnaires for you to fill out prior to your appointment. Making sure you complete these forms as quickly as you can will ensure that you don't have any delays to your appointment. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the traits (symptoms) of ADHD to be able to recognise the signs and the ways they affect your life in detail.
The evaluation will typically include an interview with a psychiatrist, specialist nurse or other appropriately qualified healthcare professional. The therapist will examine your mental health and ADHD symptoms to determine if they're caused by another illness or not (NICE guidelines). The therapist will then discuss treatment options with you, which could include medication.
It's worth remembering that nurses, GPs and psychologists aren't as knowledgeable about adult ADHD as Psychiatrists with specialization It is therefore essential to prepare and practice your symptoms prior to going for the assessment. This will allow you to describe your symptoms in a way they can understand. You'll need to provide examples of how your symptoms affect your life in all ways, from your work to your relationships, and then over time.
You may have tests done in the course of your examination, such as a blood test to check for any allergies. Your therapist might suggest additional tests to check whether you have any other medical problems.
You may be self-referring, or making use of the Right to Choose Scheme, however, you'll still need to wait to get an appointment that is funded by the NHS. This can vary from NHS trust to NHS trust, as well as from clinician to clinician.
What is the outcome if I don't receive a diagnosis?
You can be diagnosed with ADHD when you have a number of factors that favor you. Some groups may have a difficult time getting diagnosed. For example when they are of color, were born female or if they have other mental health diagnoses such as depression or bipolar disorder.
If you're struggling to get an answer, consult your GP and ask for an appointment. You can also try to find a private doctor who specializes in adult ADHD evaluations. They can often offer more rapid service than the NHS.
The psychiatrist will evaluate your symptoms to determine if they match the Nice guidelines for ADHD. They'll also try to determine the cause of your symptoms, such as anxiety, depression or thyroid issues. This is a thorough process, and it's not always easy for adults to provide all the evidence needed (for instance, they may struggle to locate old school reports in the back of the cupboard).
It's also possible that you won't be diagnosed with ADHD even the GP is willing to refer you to a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist can only diagnose ADHD in the event that they believe your ADHD symptoms cause significant impairment. If they believe that you do not meet the requirements, they will inform you why.
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD it is legal in the UK to access treatment via the NHS. This applies to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. You may be able to obtain medication through an individual funding request, but it depends on where you live. You may be referred an expert in your local area who will prescribe the medicine you prefer. NHS specialists are more likely to prescribe Methylphenidate, Atomoxetine or Straterra first, and they don't always plan for lengthy titration periods.
It is helpful to join a support group for adults with ADHD, both in person and on the internet. They can be a source of support and comforting. It can also be helpful to share your experience with other people who understand.
How can I get treatment?
webpage may be directed to ADHD specialist services to be assessed and treated. These services are usually located in NHS hospitals or NHS community health teams. For instance the Maudsley Hospital, London, offers a national ADHD diagnostic service for adults. However, a large number of NHS healthcare providers do not recognise these reports as valid, and patients often encounter blockages in their access to care including long waiting times and the rejection of referrals (see below for more details).).
Support groups at the meeting reported that many ADHD patients seek out private assessments and diagnosis to avoid the insufficient NHS funding in this area. Private clinics provide a more accurate, professional and speedier diagnosis. They can also help screen for comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression that are common in ADHD. They assist in titrating the final dose. Prices range from PS500 to 1,200, although often a diagnosis and titration are charged separately.
The diagnosis and treatment for ADHD can vary from individual to individual. The majority of people are treated using medications. This may be methylphenidates, like Ritalin or Concerta or atomoxetine like Strateva. Sometimes, non-drug treatments are useful, such as training and education for parents and families of people with ADHD. Some people suffering from ADHD have found that changing their diet and establishing an effective sleep schedule can help. Others have found that hypnotherapy and psychotherapy can help ease their symptoms, although the evidence on these isn't as strong.
It is unacceptable that so many people suffering from ADHD cannot get the medical and treatment they require through the NHS. The UK government, clinical and regulatory authorities need to act urgently to address this situation. People with ADHD need access to treatment without discrimination and in accordance with their legal rights. To reduce this unmet demand it is crucial to plan for long-term funding and to provide health, social care and judicial services in tandem. The current situation is not sustainable and the effect on families, individuals and society is incredibly damaging. It is now the time to invest in this area.