How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
Patients with ADHD are often confronted with a network of gatekeepers when seeking referrals assessment, support and referral. It is clear that a few of these gatekeepers from NHS CCGs aren't adhering to national guidelines for treating patients or their legal obligations to stop discrimination and health inequality.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that some private ADHD clinics aren't properly monitored. This could lead to inconsistent diagnostic thresholds, and assessment reporting that can create problems when trying to transfer to the NHS.
How do I obtain a diagnosis?
ADHD is a mental illness that can only be diagnosed by a healthcare professional with specialized expertise. This includes psychologists and psychiatrists (who are the only ones qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK). People suffering from mental illness often report ADHD symptoms, especially those who have been struggling 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 isn't always easy to navigate for those who are seeking diagnosis.
It is possible to obtain an diagnosis 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 a specialist for an assessment. However, you might need to wait until the specialist is available.
To determine if you have ADHD healthcare experts will look into any mental health issues you may have had in the past as well as your family history. To assess your behavior, they'll observe you in various situations, including at home, school, or work. You will be asked to explain your symptoms, and how they affect your daily life. They might inquire about your social life, your relationships, and other activities that you do often.
A specialist will consider all of the evidence before making a diagnosis. They will use criteria like being unrestful and fidgety all the time and having short-term memory issues, having difficulty staying focused and unable to keep up in school or at work, not finishing tasks and being extremely active. The diagnosis will be made upon the presence of these characteristics in multiple settings, affecting your performance and if there's a clear pattern that has been evident for at least six years.
In the last few months, there has been a rise in the number of high-profile people who have spoken out about their experiences being diagnosed with ADHD. This has resulted in an increase of people seeking a diagnosis. This can result in long wait times for healthcare professionals. Patients and their families avoid the NHS in order to be assessed at private clinics. This could be expensive. It is crucial to select an healthcare provider you trust and be honest about your symptoms.
What happens during the process of assessment?
If you're self-referring or referred by your GP the process of assessing for ADHD symptoms is essentially the same. The person conducting the assessment will ask you questions about your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. For instance, "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?"
You may be required to fill out various questionnaires or forms prior your appointment, based on the location you're going to for your evaluation. Filling out these forms in a timely manner will prevent any delays during your appointment. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD to ensure that you recognize them and discuss how they affect your life in depth.
The test will usually involve an interview with a psychiatrist, specialist nurse or any other qualified healthcare professional. The therapist will assess your mental health in general and the specific signs of ADHD to see whether they are caused by any other condition, or are unrelated to any other condition (NICE guidelines). The therapist will go over with you the treatment options that could include medications.
It is important to keep in mind that GPs, nurses and psychologists will not be as well-versed in adult ADHD as Psychiatrists with specialization and therefore it is essential to practice and prepare your symptoms before you go for the assessment. This will enable you to explain your symptoms in a way they can understand. You'll need to provide examples on how your symptoms affect your life in all ways, from your work to your relationships, and then over time.
You might have some tests done as part of the assessment like the blood test to look for any allergies. adhd uk diagnosis could suggest additional tests to determine for any medical conditions.
If you self-refer or going through the Right to Choose scheme, it is crucial to know that even though you pay for your private evaluation 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 is the outcome if I don't receive a diagnosis?
There are several things that can stop you getting diagnosed with ADHD. 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 conditions like depression or bipolar disorder.
If you are having a hard time getting a diagnosis, try speaking to your GP about it and request the referral to a psychiatrist. You may also find a private psychiatrist who is specialized in adult ADHD evaluations. They can often offer a much faster service than the NHS.
The psychiatrist will evaluate your symptoms to determine if they match the Nice guidelines for ADHD. They will also rule out other possible causes for your issue like depression, anxiety, or thyroid problems. It can be a lengthy process, and adults may not have all the information they need.
It's also possible that you won't be diagnosed with ADHD even if your GP will agree to refer you to a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is able to diagnose ADHD if they believe that your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment. If they think you do not meet the criteria, they'll inform you the reason.
In the UK, it is legal to seek treatment through the NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland when you are diagnosed with ADHD. You may also be able to access medication through an Individual Funding Request however, this is contingent on the location you live in. You could be referred by your physician to prescribe the medication of your choice. NHS specialists prefer Methylphenidate or Atomoxetine first and don't plan long titration phases.
It is beneficial to join an adult support group with ADHD, both in person and on the internet. They can be helpful and reassuring. It is also helpful to share your experiences with others who understand.
How can I receive treatment?
Adults may be referred to ADHD specialist services to be assessed and treated. 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, a large number of NHS healthcare providers do not recognize these reports as valid, and patients frequently face obstacles in their access to treatment such as long waiting times and the rejection of referrals (see below for more details).).
Support groups have reported at the meeting of consensus that a lot of ADHD sufferers are seeking private assessments and diagnoses to circumvent the NHS's lack of funding in this area. Private clinics provide a more accurate, professional and faster diagnosis. They are also helpful in identifying comorbidities such as depression and anxiety which are very common in ADHD and can assist with titration to the final dose of the medication. Prices vary from PS500 to PS1,200 however, sometimes a diagnosis and titration are charged separately.
The treatment and diagnosis for ADHD can vary from one person to another. The majority of people are treated using medication. This may be methylphenidates, such as Ritalin or Concerta, or atomoxetine, like Strateva. Sometimes, non-drug interventions are beneficial, like education and training for parents and families of people with ADHD. Some people suffering from ADHD discover that a change in their diet can help, as does trying to develop a sleep-friendly routine. Some people find that hypnotherapy or psychotherapy can help with their symptoms, though the evidence on these is not as extensive.
It is unacceptable that so many people suffering from ADHD cannot get the treatment and care they need through the NHS. The UK government, the clinical and regulatory authorities must take action urgently to rectify this issue. People with ADHD must have access to treatment that is free of discrimination and consistent with their legal rights. Long-term planning of funding, and joint commissioning of social, health care and judicial services are essential to meet this unmet need. The current situation cannot be endured and has a negative impact on individuals, their families and society. It's time to invest.