How to Get an ADHD Assessment in the UK
The process of getting an ADHD assessment can be difficult however it's essential to follow the right steps. Talk to your GP about the reason you believe you have ADHD. Your GP must take your concerns seriously and ask you to fill out a screening tool.
If you prefer, you can opt to go directly to a private health provider for an ADHD assessment. This can be a much faster option than using the NHS.
1. Talk to your GP
In the UK there is a growing awareness of ADHD. However, certain biases can make it difficult for people to be diagnosed. Some of these biases can include the belief that ADHD is only a problem for males and people of certain backgrounds, and for those who do not fit the stereotype.
If your GP does not want to send you to an assessment, you should looking for a different one - especially if you intend to seek a Right to Choose referral for medications through the NHS. The Psychiatry-UK website has a great guide about this here.
An ADHD assessment typically involves the conduct of a series of discussions with a psychiatrist about your symptoms as well as questionnaires and scores. You may also be asked about your family history and what impacts your symptoms may have on you. They will also inquire if you have other health problems.
2. Request your GP for an appointment
In England, doctors can refer adults suffering from ADHD to a psychiatrist via the 'Right to choose process. This can allow you to access the NHS faster and cut down the time it takes to wait.
Your GP should listen to your concerns and have a an open and honest discussion with you regarding the reason you think you might have ADHD. They should also discuss other mental health issues that could be affecting your life.
If your GP decides to refer you to the NHS for an assessment, they must follow NICE guidelines. These include an interview and questionnaires assessing your symptoms and family history, as well as feedback from people who know you well. A diagnosis can help you get the support you need, including treatment with medication and CBT. ADHD medications are stimulants that can only be prescribed by specialists. After you have received a private diagnosis from your doctor, they will ask your GP to prescribe under an agreement known as a Shared Care Agreement.
3. Ask your GP to recommend you to a Psychiatrist
ADHD can be a crippling condition. It can make it hard to keep up with work, school or social relationships. It can also affect your health and lead to various mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
The NHS offers specialized ADHD evaluations through a process known as Right to Choose (RTC). This is a legal right you have as a citizen of England.
In your evaluation you'll be able to meet with an Psychologist who will inquire about your symptoms and your family history. Bring documentation like performance evaluations or copies of any previous psychological tests. They may also want to speak to your parents or other individuals who know you well. They will then decide whether you're diagnosed with ADHD. They may suggest that you consider medication options. They'll also discuss ongoing care, which could be continued private treatment or discharged back to your GP to share management.
4. Request your physician to refer you to the Neurodevelopmental Services
The process of obtaining an ADHD assessment can be long particularly if you live in a location that has a limited number of providers. The NHS psychiatrist will ask you questions to determine the severity of your symptoms and speak with you about your issues. They might also ask those in your life who know you well (spouse siblings, parents or sibling for adults) to comment on your behavior. This could give you personal insight that is not possible with an online questionnaire.
After you've received your diagnosis, the specialist will provide a report your GP. If your GP accepts the 'Shared Care Agreement', they'll arrange for you begin treatment through the NHS. This will include prescription medication and CBT therapy. It can take a while as the NHS is under pressure and resources are limited.
5. Ask your GP to refer you to an a Child Psychiatrist
A professional ADHD evaluation can be a huge relief. It can help you understand that your your child's symptoms are a result of an illness that affects the brain, not due to a personal flaw and reduce the feelings of guilt, shame, and self-doubt.
The psychiatrist will collect information from a survey or interview with your teachers, family members and other individuals who know you well. The psychiatrist will then create an account of their findings and possible diagnoses. You will then be provided with an treatment plan that could include CBT or medications.
If you are an adult in England you may also choose to be directed by your GP through the Right To Choose scheme to a private clinic. This is quicker and more affordable than waiting for an appointment from the NHS. However, you'll be paying for the examination yourself.
6. Ask your GP for an appointment with a Child Neurodevelopmental Services
If you think you or your child have ADHD It's worth asking your GP to refer you to an assessment. A clinical diagnosis can help you make reasonable adjustments and DSA. It is helpful in knowing if medication is beneficial.
The NHS has guidelines for diagnosing ADHD. The process involves an interview with a psychiatrist exam, a review and questionnaires of your medical and developmental background. Interviews can also be conducted with family members and other people who know you well.
The symptoms must be evident in at least two settings (such as home, school, and work) and cause impairment. The behavior can't be explained by another mental health issue such as depression or anxiety. The diagnosis is usually performed by a psychiatrist. A private assessment will involve the same process, however the specialist will also assess for comorbidities.
7. Ask your GP for a referral to a child psychiatrist
You will need to consult an Psychologist to obtain an assessment and diagnosis if you wish to try medications. They will ask you to complete an inventory of ADHD characteristics (symptoms) and how they affect your life. They will also determine whether your symptoms have been present since you were a child.
Your doctor is likely to refer you to the NHS Psychiatrist service if they agree that you need an ADHD assessment. Adults in England can now select their own mental healthcare provider and choose private assessments.
A private ADHD assessment involves a clinical consultation with a specialist psychiatrist, and questionnaires, which include symptom checklists and behaviour rating scales. The input of family members or anyone else who knows you well could be requested as well.
8. Ask your GP to refer you to a Child Neurodevelopmental Service
If you suspect that your child has ADHD, or if you are concerned about their behavior it is important to talk to your GP. Your GP will be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an assessment through the NHS.
The NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland follows NICE guidelines for diagnosing ADHD. In Scotland, they follow Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network (SIGN) guidelines.
The NHS in England also has the system known as 'Right to Choose This means that you have the legal right to decide where you receive your treatment and assessment. It can be difficult to find organizations that qualify. Many people choose to have their assessments or treatment done privately. If you decide to do this your doctor must write to your GP and provide paperwork for a Shared-Care Agreement. online adhd assessment uk will have to pay for your medication privately, and the NHS will provide CBT.
9. Ask your GP for the referral to a child psychiatrist
It may take a while to receive an evaluation in the NHS. The NHS mental health specialists work under great pressure, and the resources are limited. It can be a challenge to navigate the NHS system.
A private ADHD assessment can be completed more quickly. It will include a thorough assessment with an adult ADHD specialist. This will include your medical history, developmental landmarks, family history and your current symptoms. Self-reporting questionnaires are used to gather additional information about your symptoms, including the impact they have on your daily life. For additional insight, you may be asked to give input from people who know you, such as your spouse, sibling or your friend.
It's important to note that in England, people have the legal right to choose their preferred provider for NHS assessments by following the "Right to Choose" route. This can cut down on wait times.
10. Ask your GP to refer you to a Child Neurodevelopmental Service
If you're interested in getting a diagnosis from the NHS procedure, it's fairly straightforward. You'll need to ask your GP to refer you to an ADHD specialist and then wait for the assessment.
You'll have a clinical interview with the specialist and they'll inquire about your medical history, developmental milestones, family history, and the specific symptoms you're experiencing. You might be asked to complete the checklist of symptoms or seek feedback from those who know you.
If your GP isn't willing to make an appointment for you to be assessed It's a good idea to find a new GP particularly in the event that you intend to apply for an Shared Care Agreement with the NHS for medication down the road. Psychiatry UK has some helpful suggestions for you. You can also make contact with private assessment providers directly.