How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
People suffering from ADHD often face a network of gatekeepers when seeking referral or assessment and support. It is evident that a number of these gatekeepers, especially in NHS CCGs, do not follow national clinical guidelines and their legal obligations to stop health inequalities and discrimination.
Certain private ADHD clinics might not be properly regulated according to reports from anecdotal sources. This could lead to an inconsistency in diagnostic thresholds and assessment reporting that could cause problems when trying to transfer to the NHS.
How do I find out if I have a diagnosis?
ADHD is a mental health condition that means it must be diagnosed by a healthcare professional who has expertise. This includes psychologists and psychiatrists (who are the only ones 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 period. This means that they can be feeling stuck in their current situation and are in desperate need of help to improve their life. However it is true that the NHS can be a challenge to navigate for those seeking a diagnosis.
It is possible to get an diagnosis through the NHS by asking your GP for an appointment with a specialist. Your GP will take your concerns seriously and may refer you to a specialist for an assessment. However, you might have to wait until the specialist is available.
When evaluating for ADHD health specialists will review the family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues that you have had in the past. They will be observing you in various settings, including at the workplace, school or at home to evaluate your behavior. They will ask you to describe your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They may also inquire about your relationships, social life and any other activities that you engage in regularly.
A specialist will look at all the evidence prior to making a diagnosis. They will consider criteria like being unrestful and fidgety all the time and having a short-term memory, having difficulty staying focused and unable to keep up in school or at work, not finishing tasks and being extremely active. The diagnosis is determined by an array of characteristics that are present in multiple situations and impact your performance.
In recent months, there has been an increase in the number of high-profile individuals who have spoken out about their experiences being diagnosed with ADHD. This has led to an increase in the number of people seeking an assessment, which could cause long wait times for healthcare professionals. Many patients and their families opt to bypass the NHS by having their health checked at private clinics, which can be expensive. It is important to choose a doctor you trust and be prepared to answer honestly about your symptoms.
What happens during the process of assessment?
Whether you self-refer or are recommended by your GP the process of assessing ADHD symptoms is essentially the same. The person who is conducting the assessment will ask you questions about your symptoms and how they affect your life. For instance, "What problems do experience at home?" "How does your symptoms impact your work?" "Do you have other symptoms you think may be related to ADHD?"
You may be required to fill out different questionnaires or forms prior to your appointment, based on the location you're taking for your assessment. Making sure you complete these forms in a timely manner will help to avoid any delays in your appointment. You should also familiarise yourself with the symptoms of ADHD to be able to recognize them and discuss their impact on your life.
The test will usually involve an interview with a psychiatrist or specialist nursing staff or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional. The therapist will evaluate your mental health and ADHD symptoms to determine if they're caused by a different condition or not (NICE guidelines). The therapist will then go over treatment options with you, which could include medication.
It is important to keep in mind that GPs, nurses and psychologists will not be as familiar with adult ADHD as Psychiatrists with specialization, so it is important to practice and prepare your symptoms prior to going to the test. This will help you explain the impact that your symptoms are having in a way that is easily understood by them. You will have to give examples on how your symptoms have impacted your life in all aspects from your work to your relationships, and then over time.
There may be tests taken as part of the assessment for example, a blood test to check for any allergies. Your therapist might suggest additional tests to determine if you have other medical conditions.
You may be self-referring or using the Right to Choose Scheme, but you will still have to wait for an NHS-funded appointment. This can differ from NHS trust to NHS trust, as well as from clinician to clinician.
What is the outcome if I don't receive an answer to my question?
You can be diagnosed with ADHD when you have several factors that favor you. It can be more difficult for some groups of people to be diagnosed, such as when you are of color or a woman at birth or if you suffer from other mental health diagnoses like depression or bipolar disorder.
If you're struggling to get an answer, you can talk to your GP about it and request a referral to a psychiatrist. It is also a good idea to find a private psychiatric provider who specializes in adult ADHD assessments. 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 rule out other possible causes for your issue, such as anxiety, depression or thyroid problems. It's a lengthy procedure and adults might not have all the information they require.
You might not be diagnosed with ADHD even if your GP accepts. This is because a psychiatrist will only diagnose you if they consider 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 in the UK to get treatment through the NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in the event that you are diagnosed with ADHD. You may also be able to access medication through an Individual Funding Request but this depends on the area you live in. You may be referred to a specialist in your local area who will prescribe the medication of your choice. NHS specialists tend to prefer Methylphenidate Atomoxetine or Straterra first and they don't always plan for lengthy titration periods.
It can be helpful to join a support group for adults with ADHD in person and on the internet. They can be supportive and comforting. It can also be helpful to share your experiences with others who understand.
What can I do to get treatment?
Adults may be directed to ADHD specialist services to be assessed and treated. These services are typically located in NHS hospitals or NHS community health teams. For example, the Maudsley Hospital, London, provides a national ADHD diagnostic service for adults. However, many NHS healthcare providers do not accept these reports, and patients are often blocked from getting care. This is due to long waiting times or rejection of referrals.
Support groups informed the meeting of consensus that a lot of ADHD sufferers seek out private assessments and diagnosis to avoid 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 anxiety and depression that are common in ADHD. They also help with titration of the final dose. Prices range from PS500 to 1,200 However, the diagnosis and titration are priced separately.
The diagnosis and treatment how to diagnose adhd in adults for ADHD is different from individual to individual. The most commonly used treatment is medication, which can be in the form of methylphenidates (Ritalin, Concerta) or atomoxetine (Strateva). Sometimes, non-drug interventions are useful, such as training and education for parents and the families of those with ADHD. Some people suffering from ADHD discover that a change in diet can help, as does trying to develop a sleep-friendly routine. Some people find that hypnotherapy and psychotherapy can aid in reducing symptoms. However the evidence behind these therapies isn't as strong.
It is unacceptable that many adults with ADHD are unable to get the treatment and care they require from the NHS. The UK government, the clinical and regulatory authorities must act urgently to correct this situation. Patients with ADHD should have access to treatment that is free of discrimination and in accordance with their legal rights. To meet this demand it is crucial to plan long-term funding and commission health, social care, and judicial services together. The current state of affairs cannot be sustained and has a negative impact on the families of individuals and the society. It's time to invest.