How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
Patients with ADHD typically have to deal with a number of gatekeepers when seeking referrals assessment, support and referral. It is clear that many of these gatekeepers, notably in NHS CCGs, are disregarding the national guidelines for treating patients and their legal obligation to avoid health inequality and discrimination.
adhd diagnosis uk adults suggests that certain private ADHD clinics aren't properly controlled. This can lead to inconsistent diagnostic thresholds, and assessment reporting that can create problems when trying to transfer to the NHS.
How do I obtain an medical diagnosis?
ADHD is an illness of the mind, which means it is only diagnosed by a healthcare provider with specialized knowledge. This includes psychiatrists and psychology (who are only certified to diagnose ADHD in the UK). People with mental health conditions frequently report symptoms of ADHD, especially those who have struggled for a long period. They may feel trapped in their current situation and desperate for help. However it is true that the NHS isn't always easy to navigate for those who are seeking diagnosis.
It is possible to obtain an assessment through the NHS by asking your GP for the referral to see an expert. Your GP should take your concerns seriously and be able to refer you for an assessment, but you may need to wait while the specialist is in.
To assess your ADHD healthcare experts will look into any mental health issues that you may have experienced in the past as well as your family history. They will be observing you in various situations, such as at home and school or work to determine your behavior. You will be asked to write about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. They might also inquire about your relationships with friends, social life and any other activities you take part in on a regular basis.
A specialist will look at all the evidence before arriving at a diagnose. They will use criteria such as being restless and fidgety at all times and having a short-term memory or difficulty focusing and unable to keep up at school or at work, failing to complete tasks, and being extremely energetic. The diagnosis will be upon the presence of these traits in multiple settings, affecting your performance and if there is an identifiable pattern that has been evident for at minimum six years.
In recent months there has been a rise in the number of high-profile individuals who have spoken out about their experiences with being diagnosed with ADHD. This has led to an increase in the number of people who are seeking a diagnosis, which can 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 expensive. It is essential to locate a healthcare professional you are comfortable with and answer questions honestly about your symptoms.
What happens during the assessment?
The process of the process of assessing ADHD symptoms is the same whether you self-refer or get referred by your GP. The person who conducts the assessment will ask you questions about your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. For example, "What problems do experience at home?" "How does your symptoms affect your work?" "Do you have other symptoms you think may be related to ADHD?"
Depending on where you go for your assessment, there may be various forms or questionnaires for you to fill out prior to your appointment. Filling out these forms as quickly as you can will ensure that you don't have any delays in your appointment. It's also worth familiarising yourself with the traits (symptoms) of ADHD to ensure that you recognise them and discuss the ways they affect your life in detail.
The assessment will usually include an interview with psychiatrists, specialist nurses or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional. The therapist will evaluate your mental health in general and the symptoms of ADHD to determine if they are being caused by any other condition or are not related to any other conditions (NICE guidelines). The therapist will go over with you the options for treatment that may include medications.
Be aware that nurses and GPs aren't as knowledgeable about adult ADHD as psychiatrists. Therefore, it is important to plan your symptoms and practice them prior to when you go to the evaluation. This will help you describe your symptoms in a manner they can comprehend. You'll need to provide examples on how your symptoms have affected your life in all areas from your work to your relationships, and then over time.
There may be tests performed as part of your assessment like the blood test to look for any allergies. If you suffer from any other medical conditions your therapist could suggest additional tests to test for these, too.
If you are self-referring, or enrolled in the Right to Choose scheme, it is important to remember that even though you pay for your private assessment but you will still need to wait for NHS scheduled appointments - and this can vary between NHS trusts and also from one doctor to another.
What happens if I don't receive a diagnosis?
You may be diagnosed with ADHD in the event that you have several factors in your favor. Some groups may be more difficult to get diagnosed. For example when they are of color or were born female or if they have other mental health diagnoses such as bipolar disorder or depression.
If you're having difficulty getting an answer, consult your GP and request an appointment. You may also find a private psychiatrist who specializes in adult ADHD assessments. They usually provide an earlier 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 try to eliminate other causes of your issues including anxiety, depression or thyroid issues. It's a long process, and adults may not have all the information they need.
It's also possible that you will not be diagnosed with ADHD even the GP agrees to refer you. A psychiatrist can only diagnose ADHD if they believe that your ADHD symptoms cause significant impairment. If they believe you do not meet the criteria, they will tell you why.
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD it is legal in the UK to access treatment via the NHS. This is applicable to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. You could be able get medication through an Individual funding request, but it depends on the location you reside in. You may be referred to the right specialist in your area who will prescribe the medication you prefer. NHS specialists usually prefer Methylphenidate, Atomoxetine or Straterra first, and they do not always plan for long intervals of titration.
Joining a support group whether in person or on the internet for adults with ADHD can be beneficial. They can be a source of support and calm. It is also helpful to share your story with other people who understand.
What can I do to get treatment?
GPs can recommend adults to specialist ADHD services for assessment and treatment. Typically, these are located in NHS hospitals and NHS community health teams. For instance the Maudsley Hospital in London offers an all-encompassing ADHD adult diagnostic service. However, a majority of NHS healthcare providers do not recognise these reports as valid, and patients often face difficulties in their access to healthcare, notably long wait times and rejection of referrals (see below for more details).).
Support groups at the meeting revealed that many ADHD patients seek out private assessments and diagnosis to overcome the absence of NHS funding in this area. Private clinics provide a quicker and more efficient, and generally understanding 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 however, often a diagnosis and titration is priced separately.
The diagnosis and treatment of ADHD varies between individuals. The majority of people are treated with medications. This may be methylphenidates, such as Ritalin or Concerta or atomoxetine like Strateva. Sometimes, non-drug treatments are beneficial, like education and training for parents and the families of those with ADHD. Some people with ADHD discover that a change in diet can help, as well as developing a sleep-friendly routine. Others find that hypnotherapy or psychotherapy can help with their symptoms, but the evidence for these therapies is not as extensive.
It is inexcusable that so many people suffering from ADHD are not receiving the medical and treatment they require through the NHS. This problem must be addressed urgently by UK governments and regulatory and clinical bodies. People with ADHD need access to treatment that is devoid of discrimination and in line with their legal rights. The long-term planning of financing, and joined up commissioning of social, health care and judicial services are vital to reduce this unmet need. The current situation cannot be long-term and has a negative impact on individuals, their families and society. It's time to invest.