How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
When seeking assistance, referral or assessment for ADHD, people often encounter an array of gatekeepers in the network. It is clear that a lot of these gatekeepers, particularly in NHS CCGs, are disregarding national clinical guidelines and their legal obligation to avoid health inequality and discrimination.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that certain private ADHD clinics aren't properly monitored. This can lead to unreliable diagnostic thresholds and assessment reporting, which can cause problems when trying to transfer to the NHS.
How do I find out if I have an appointment for a diagnosis?
ADHD is an illness of the mind that means it must be diagnosed by a healthcare professional with specialist knowledge. This includes psychiatrists and psychology (who are the only ones qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK). People with mental illnesses frequently report ADHD symptoms, especially those who have struggled for a long period of time. They may feel stuck in their current circumstances, and in desperate need of help. However it is true that the NHS can be a challenge to navigate for people seeking diagnosis.
It is possible to receive an assessment through the NHS by asking your GP for a referral to see an expert. Your GP will take your concerns seriously and could refer you to an expert for an assessment. However, you might be required to wait until a specialist is available.
When evaluating for ADHD healthcare professionals will look at the family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues you've had in the past. They will also observe you in different environments, such as your home, at school or at work, to assess your behaviour. They will ask you to explain your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They might inquire about your social life, your relationships and other activities that you do often.
A specialist will look at all the evidence before arriving at diagnosis. They will use criteria, such as being persistently restless and fidgety, having an insufficient attention span, difficulty keeping up at work or school and having difficulty staying focused on work that are not completed, and being extremely active. The diagnosis will be made upon the presence of these characteristics in multiple settings, affecting your functioning, and if there is a clear pattern that has persisted for at least six years.
In recent months, there has been a rise in celebrities speaking out about their experiences of being diagnosed with ADHD. This has resulted in an increase in people seeking an assessment. This can result in long wait for healthcare professionals. Some families and patients opt to avoid the NHS by undergoing assessments at private clinics that can be expensive. It is essential to choose a healthcare provider that you trust and be honest about your health issues.
What happens during the process of assessment?
Whether you're self-referring or getting recommended by your GP, the process of assessing for ADHD symptoms is essentially the same. The person who conducts the test will ask questions about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. For instance, "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?"
Depending on the location you visit for your assessment there could be different forms or questionnaires available for you to complete before your appointment. It is important to fill these out as quickly as you can so that your appointment won't be delayed. It is also important to familiarize 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 a psychiatrist or specialist nursing staff or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional. The therapist will examine your mental health and ADHD symptoms to determine if they are caused by another illness or not (NICE guidelines). The therapist will then go over possible treatment options with you which could include medication.
It's worth remembering that nurses, GPs and psychologists aren't as well-versed in adult ADHD as Psychiatrists with specialization It is therefore essential to prepare and practice your symptoms prior to going to the test. This will help you explain your symptoms in a manner they can understand. adhd diagnosis in adults will have to give examples of how your symptoms affect your life in all areas including your work, your relationships, and over time.
As part of the examination, you may have to undergo certain tests, for instance a test for allergies. If you are suffering from any other medical problems your therapist could suggest further tests to check for these issues, too.
If you self-refer, or 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 funded appointments - and this can differ between NHS trusts and from one physician to another.
What happens if I don't have a diagnosis?
There are a variety of factors that can prevent you from getting diagnosed with ADHD. Certain groups could have a harder time getting diagnosed. For instance when they are of color or were assigned female at birth or if they suffer from other mental health conditions like bipolar disorder or depression.
If you're having difficulty getting a diagnosis, talk to your GP and request a referral. You may also find a private psychiatrist who is specialized in adult ADHD tests. They can often offer 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'll also try to determine the cause of your issues, such as anxiety, depression or thyroid issues. This is a thorough procedure, and it's not always easy for adults to give all the evidence required (for instance, they might struggle to locate old school reports in the back of the cupboard).
It's also possible that you will not be diagnosed with ADHD, even the GP agrees to refer you to a psychiatrist. This is because a psychiatrist can only diagnose you if they consider that your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment. If they believe that you don't meet the criteria, they'll inform you why.
If you have been diagnosed with ADHD it is legal in the UK to receive treatment through the NHS. This applies to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. You might also be able to get medication through an Individual Funding Request, however, this is contingent on your local area. You may be referred the right specialist in your area who will prescribe the medicine of your choice. NHS specialists tend to prefer Methylphenidate, Atomoxetine or Straterra first, and 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 helpful and calm. It is also helpful to share your story with others who can relate to.
What can I do to get treatment?
Adults are sent to ADHD specialist services for assessment and treatment. They are typically located in NHS hospitals and NHS community health teams. For instance, the Maudsley Hospital in London offers a nationwide ADHD adult diagnostic service. However there are many NHS healthcare providers don't accept these reports, and patients are frequently denied accessing care. This is due to long waiting periods or rejection of referrals.
Support groups at the meeting noted that a lot of ADHD patients seek private assessment and diagnosis to avoid the absence of NHS investment in this area. Private clinics can provide an accurate, professional and speedier diagnosis. They can also assist in screening for comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression which are common in ADHD. They can also help with titration of the final dosage. The cost is ranging from PS500 to PS1,200. Sometimes, a diagnosis and dosage are priced separately.
The diagnosis and treatment for ADHD is different between individuals. The most commonly used treatment is medication, which can be in the form of methylphenidates (Ritalin, Concerta) or atomoxetine (Strateva). Non-drug interventions can be helpful like education and training for families and parents of children with ADHD. Some people with ADHD have found that a change in diet can help, as well as trying to develop a sleep-friendly routine. Others find that hypnotherapy or psychotherapy can ease their symptoms, but the evidence for these therapies is not as extensive.
It is inexcusable that so many adults suffering from ADHD cannot get the medical and treatment they require through the NHS. The UK government, the clinical and regulatory authorities must act urgently to correct this situation. People suffering from ADHD need access to treatment, free from discrimination and in accordance with their legal rights. Long-term planning of funding and a coordinated commissioning of health, social care and judicial services are essential to address this need that is not being met. The current state of affairs is not sustainable and the impact on families, individuals and the entire society is devastating. It is time to invest in this area.