How to Get an ADHD Assessment in the UK
It can be difficult to get an ADHD assessment however it is essential to follow the correct steps. Talk to your GP about why you believe you are suffering from ADHD. Your GP should be able to take you seriously and ask you to fill out a screening tool.
You can also self-refer to a private medical professional to receive an ADHD assessment. This is a lot more efficient than the NHS.
1. Speak with your doctor
There is a growing awareness of ADHD in the UK however there are still a few prejudices that make it difficult for people to be diagnosed. Some of these biases include the belief that ADHD is only a problem for boys or people from certain backgrounds, and those who do not fit the stereotype.
If your GP is unable to refer you for an assessment, it's worth looking for a different one - particularly if you wish to take advantage of a Right to Choose referral for medication via the NHS. The Psychiatry-UK website has a great guide to this here.
A typical ADHD assessment consists of a series of sessions with a psychiatrist concerning your symptoms and questionnaires. You might also be asked about your family history and the impact your symptoms have on you. They will also inquire whether you have any other health issues.
2. Ask your GP to refer you to a
In England, GPs may refer adults suffering from ADHD to psychiatrists via the "Right to Choose" process. This allows you to access the NHS faster and decrease waiting times.
Your GP should be able to listen to your concerns and have a an open and honest discussion with you about the reasons you think you may be suffering from ADHD. They should also discuss any other mental health issues that are impacting your life.
If they decide to refer you to an NHS assessment, your doctor should follow NICE guidelines. This includes an interview, questionnaires and input from those who know you best. A diagnosis can aid you in getting the support you require, which includes medication and CBT therapy. ADHD medications are stimulants that should only be prescribed by a specialist. After you have received a private diagnosis from your physician and they 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 limiting condition. It can be difficult to keep up with school and at work, as well as in relationships. It can also impact your health and lead you to mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.
The NHS provides specialized ADHD assessment using an assessment process called Right to Choose (RTC). This is a legal right that you enjoy as an English citizen.
At your assessment, you'll meet with a psychiatrist who will ask about your symptoms and family history. It's helpful to bring evidence such as performance evaluations or copies from previous results of psychological tests. They may also want to talk to your parents or other people who are familiar with you. Then they will decide if you can be diagnosed with ADHD. They might suggest that you investigate medication options. They may also suggest ongoing care, which could include private treatment or a referral back to your GP.
4. Request your physician to refer you to the Neurodevelopmental Services
It can be a lengthy process to get an ADHD assessment, especially if you live in a region in which there aren't many service providers. The NHS psychiatrist who will conduct the assessment will talk to you about how your problems affect you, and use questionnaires to assess the severity of your symptoms. They may also ask people in your life who know you well (spouse or sibling, or parents for adults) to comment on your behavior. This could give you an insight into your personality that isn't available in questionnaires.
Once you've had your diagnosis, the doctor will send a report to your GP. If your GP accepts the 'Shared Care Agreement' they'll make arrangements for you to begin treatment through the NHS. This will include prescription medications and CBT therapy. It can take a while as the NHS is under strain, and resources are limited.
5. Ask your GP for the referral to a child psychiatrist
A professional ADHD assessment can be a wonderful relief. It can help you realize that the symptoms of your child or you aren't caused by a personal failure or a neurological disorder. This can ease feelings of guilt, shame and self-doubt.
The psychiatrist will take details from a questionnaire or through interviews with your family, teachers and other people who know you well. The psychiatrist will then create an account of their findings and possible diagnoses. You will receive an treatment plan that could include CBT or medication.
Adults in England are also able to be referred to a private clinic by their GP under the Right To Choose scheme. This can be quicker and more affordable than waiting for an appointment from the NHS. You'll have to pay for the assessment.
6. Ask your GP to refer you to a Child Neurodevelopmental Service
If you suspect you or your child may have ADHD It's a good idea to ask your GP to refer you for an assessment. A clinical diagnosis will help you to access reasonable adjustments and DSA. It is helpful in determining if medication is beneficial.
The NHS provides guidelines on how to assess and diagnose ADHD. The procedure involves an interview with psychiatrists, a review of medical and developmental history and questionnaires. Family members and others who know you may be questioned as well.
Children and adults must exhibit symptoms in two or more contexts, including school or at home and the symptoms can cause impairment. The behaviour cannot be caused by another mental illness, like depression or anxiety. The diagnosis is usually made by a psychiatrist. A private assessment is the same process, however the specialist will also check for comorbid conditions.
7. Ask your GP for a referral to a child psychiatrist
If you want to try treatment, you will have to consult a psychiatrist for an assessment and diagnosis. They will ask you to complete the checklist of ADHD traits (symptoms) and how they affect your life. They will also assess whether your symptoms have been present since the time you were a child.
If your GP agrees that you require ADHD assessment, they can refer you to NHS Psychiatrist services. Adults in England can now select their own mental health provider and choose private assessments.
A private ADHD assessment includes a psychotherapy appointment with a specialist psychiatrist and questionnaires, including symptom checklists and behaviour rating scales. You might also be asked to give input from family members or other people who know you well.
8. Ask your GP for the referral to a Child Neurodevelopmental Services
It is essential to talk to your GP when you suspect that your child might have ADHD or if you're concerned about their behavior. Your GP will take your concerns seriously and refer you for an assessment with the NHS.
The NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland follows NICE guidelines for diagnosing ADHD. In Scotland, the Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network Guidelines (SIGN) are followed.
The NHS in England also has the system known as 'Right to Choose which means that you have the legal right to choose where you get your treatment and assessment. However, it can be difficult to find organizations that qualify for this. Many people opt to have their assessments and treatment privately instead. If you choose to do this, your clinician will need to write to your GP with a form for the signing of a Shared Care Agreement. This means that you pay for your medication privately, but the NHS should provide CBT therapy.
9. Ask your GP to refer you to an Child Psychiatrist
It may take some time to receive an evaluation in the NHS. This is due to the fact that NHS mental health clinicians are under immense pressure and resources are limited. Additionally it can be a challenge to navigate the complexity of the NHS system.
A private ADHD assessment can be done more quickly. cost of adhd assessment will include a medical interview with a specialist in adult ADHD. This will include your medical history, developmental landmarks, family history and your current symptoms. Self-reporting forms will be used to gather additional information about your symptoms, including their impact on your daily life. People who know you well, such as a spouse, sibling, or a friend, could be gathered for additional insights.
It is important to note that those in England have a legal right to choose their provider for NHS assessments through the 'Right to Choice route. This can cut down on waiting times.
10. Ask your GP to refer you to a Child Neurodevelopmental Service.
If you're interested in getting an assessment through the NHS, the process is relatively simple. You'll need to request your GP for a referral to an ADHD specialist, and then wait to be evaluated.
You'll have a clinical interview with the specialist, and they'll ask you about your medical background, developmental milestones, family history, and specific symptoms you're experiencing. You may be asked to fill out symptoms checklists and request feedback from people who know you well.
If your GP refuses to make an appointment for you to be assessed you should consider seeking another GP especially when you are planning to apply for a Shared Care Agreement with the NHS for medication down the road. Psychiatry UK offers some useful suggestions for you. You can also try contacting private assessment providers directly.