How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK

When seeking assistance, referral or assessment for ADHD, people often encounter the network gatekeepers. It is clear that many of these gatekeepers, especially in NHS CCGs, are disregarding the national guidelines for clinical practice and their legal obligation to stop health inequalities and discrimination.

Some private ADHD clinics may not be properly controlled, according to anecdotal reports. This could lead to inconsistent diagnostic thresholds and assessment reporting, which can cause difficulties when trying to transfer back to the NHS.

How do I obtain an official medical diagnosis?

ADHD is a mental health condition that means it must be diagnosed by a healthcare professional with specialist knowledge. This includes psychiatrists and psychology (who are the only professionals certified to diagnose ADHD here in the UK). People with mental illnesses often report ADHD symptoms, especially those who have struggled for a lengthy period of time. They may feel stuck in their current circumstances, and in desperate need of help. However 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 will take your concerns seriously and should be able to send you to a specialist for an examination but you may have to wait while the specialist is available.

When assessing for ADHD healthcare professionals will look at your family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues you've had in the past. They will be observing you in various settings, including at the workplace, school or at home to determine your behavior. They will ask you to describe your symptoms and how to get a diagnosis for add they affect your daily life. They might also inquire about your relationships with friends, social life and any other activities you engage in regularly.

A doctor will take into consideration all of the evidence before making an appropriate diagnosis. They will apply criteria, for example, being perpetually active and fidgety, possessing a short attention span and having difficulty keeping up with school or work, having trouble staying focused on work or tasks, not completing them and being extremely active. The diagnosis will be made by examining the presence of these traits in multiple settings, affecting your functioning and if there's a distinct pattern that has remained for at minimum six years.

In recent months, there has been a rise in the number of high-profile individuals who have opened up about their experiences of being diagnosed with ADHD. This has led to a rise in the number of people who are seeking an assessment, which could cause long wait times for healthcare professionals. Many patients and their families opt to avoid the NHS by having their health checked at private clinics that can be expensive. It is important to find a healthcare provider you are comfortable with and answer questions honestly about your symptoms.

What happens during the test?

Whether you self-refer or are recommended by your GP the process of assessing ADHD symptoms is essentially the same. The person doing the assessment will ask you questions about how your symptoms impact your daily life, for example "What issues do you face at home?", "How do your symptoms affect your work?", and "Do you experience other symptoms you believe might be related to ADHD?"

Depending on where you go to get your assessment there could be different forms or questionnaires available for you to fill out prior to your appointment. Complete these forms in a timely manner will ensure that you don't have any delays in your appointment. It's also worth familiarising yourself with the characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD so that you can recognise them and discuss how they affect your life in detail.

The evaluation will typically include an interview with a psychiatrist, specialist nurse or any other qualified healthcare professional. The therapist will evaluate your mental health overall, and the specific symptoms of ADHD to see if they are being caused by any other condition or unrelated to any other medical condition (NICE guidelines). The clinician will discuss with you the treatment options, which may include medications.

It is important to keep in mind that nurses, GPs and psychologists will not be as familiar with adult ADHD as Psychiatrists who specialize in it, so it is important to prepare and practice your symptoms prior to going for an assessment. This will help you explain the impact your symptoms are having in a way that is easily understood by them. You will have to give examples of how your symptoms have impacted your life in all ways including your work, your relationships, and over time.

You may have tests done as part of the assessment, such as an examination of your blood to look for any allergies. Your therapist may suggest additional tests to determine if you have other medical problems.

If you are self-referring, or are enrolled in the Right to Choose scheme, it is important to remember that although you pay for your private assessment however, you must wait for NHS funded appointments - and this can vary between NHS trusts and from one physician to another.

What happens if I don't get an appointment?

You can be diagnosed with ADHD in the event that you have a variety of factors that favor you. Certain groups could be more difficult to get diagnosed. For instance, if they are of color or were born female or if they have other mental health issues, such as depression or bipolar disorder.

If you're having difficulty getting an answer, you can talk to your GP about the issue and ask for a referral to a psychiatrist. You could also locate a private psychiatrist who specializes in adult ADHD tests. They may be able to provide a quicker service than the NHS.

The psychiatrist will look at your symptoms to determine if they fit the Nice guidelines for ADHD. They will also determine if there are other causes for your issue, such as depression, anxiety, or thyroid problems. This is a extensive process, and it's not always easy for adults to provide all the evidence required (for example they might struggle to locate old school reports that are in the back of the cupboard).

You may not be diagnosed with ADHD even if your GP is in agreement. A psychiatrist is able to diagnose adhd get diagnosed if they believe that your ADHD symptoms cause significant impairment. If they believe you don't 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 might also be able to access medication through an Individual Funding Request, but this will depend on the location you live in. You may be referred to an expert in your local area who will 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 a support group for adults with ADHD in person and online. They can be extremely supportive and reassuring and can assist to share your story with others who understand.

How can I receive treatment?

Doctors can refer adults to specialists ADHD 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 an all-encompassing ADHD adult diagnostic service. However, many NHS healthcare providers do not accept these reports and patients are often denied getting care. This is due to long waiting times or rejection of referrals.

Support groups informed the consensus meeting that many ADHD sufferers seek out 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 like anxiety and depression which are very common in adhd diagnosis rates and also in helping with titration until the final dosage of the medication. The cost ranges from PS500 to PS1,200. Sometimes the diagnosis and dosage are separately priced.

The diagnosis and treatment for adhd private diagnosis varies between individuals. Most people are treated with medication. These could be methylphenidates, such as Ritalin or Concerta, or atomoxetine, like Strateva. Non-drug interventions can be helpful for education and training for parents and families of children with ADHD. Some people suffering from ADHD have found that altering their diet and creating an appropriate schedule for sleep can help. Others find that hypnotherapy or psychotherapy can help with their symptoms, although the evidence for these therapies isn't as strong.

It is inexcusable that many adults with ADHD aren't able to receive the treatment and care they require on the NHS. This problem must be addressed immediately by UK government officials and regulators and clinical organizations. Patients with ADHD should have access to treatment that is devoid of discrimination and consistent with their rights under the law. Long-term planning of funding, and a coordinated commissioning of health, social care and judicial services are vital to address this need that is not being met. The current situation isn't sustainable and the effect on families, individuals and society is hugely damaging. It is now the time to invest in this area.