How to Get an ADHD Assessment in the UK
The process of getting an ADHD assessment can be a bit difficult however, it's crucial to follow the correct steps. First, talk to your GP and explain why you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP will take you with respect and request to fill out an assessment instrument.
You can also self-refer to a private medical professional to get an ADHD assessment. This can be a much faster route than using the NHS.
1. Talk with your doctor
There is an increasing awareness of ADHD in the UK however there are still some biases that can make it harder for people to be diagnosed. Some of these biases can include the belief that ADHD is only a problem for boys and people of particular backgrounds, or who do not fit the stereotype.
If your GP is unable to refer you for an assessment, it's worth taking a look at a different one, especially if you intend to pursue the Right to Choose referral for medications through the NHS. Psychiatry-UK has a useful guide on this here.
An ADHD evaluation typically consists of an ongoing conversation with a psychiatrist about your symptoms as well as questionnaires and scores. You might also be asked about your family history and what 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, doctors can send adults suffering from ADHD to a psychiatrist through the 'Right to Choose route. This lets you access the NHS quicker and reduce the time it takes to wait.
Your GP should listen to your concerns and have open and honest discussions with you about the reasons you believe you may have ADHD. They should also discuss other mental health issues that could be affecting your life.
If they decide to refer you to an NHS assessment, your doctor should follow NICE guidelines. They will conduct an interview and questionnaires that assess your symptoms and family history, as well as information from those who know you well. A diagnosis will help to provide you with the help you require, which includes medication and CBT. Medications for ADHD are stimulants and should only be prescribed by a qualified doctor. Once you have a private diagnosis, your physician will write to your GP asking for a prescription under a 'Shared Care Agreement'.
3. Ask your GP for an appointment with a psychiatrist.
ADHD can be a crippling condition. It can be challenging to keep up in school at work, or in relationships. It can also impact your health and trigger a range of other mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.
The NHS offers specialized ADHD assessment through an assessment process called Right to Choose (RTC). This is a legal right that you have in England.
After your examination you'll see psychiatrists who will inquire about your symptoms and family history. Bring records such as performance evaluations and copies of your previous psychological tests. You may also wish to speak to your parents or other family members who know you well. Then, they will determine whether you are diagnosed with ADHD. They may recommend that you look into medication options. They'll also talk about ongoing treatment options, which could include continuing private treatment or sent back to your GP for shared management.
4. Request your physician to refer you to the Neurodevelopmental Services.
The process of getting an ADHD assessment can take a long time especially if you reside in an area that has a limited number of providers. The NHS psychiatrist will ask you questions to assess the severity of your symptoms and speak to you about your problems. They may also ask people in your life who know you well (spouse or sibling, or parents for adults) to comment on your behavior. get assessed for adhd could give you personal insight that is not possible with the help of a questionnaire.
After you've received your diagnosis, the specialist will provide a report your GP. If your GP agrees to an agreement called a Shared Care Agreement and they'll help you begin treatment via the NHS. This will include prescription medication and CBT therapy. It can take a while - the NHS is under pressure and resources are limited.
5. Ask your GP for the referral to a child psychiatrist
A professional ADHD evaluation can provide huge relief. It will help you realize that your child's or your own symptoms are caused by an illness of the brain and not a personal failing and can help reduce feelings of shame, guilt and self-doubt.
The psychiatrist will gather 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 appropriate treatment plan that could include CBT therapy or medication.
If you are an adult in England you may also choose to be recommended by your GP through the Right To Choose scheme to a private clinic. This can be less expensive and quicker than waiting for an NHS referral. However, you'll be paying for the assessment yourself.
6. Ask your GP to refer you to a Child Neurodevelopmental Service
Ask your GP for a referral if you or your child thinks they have ADHD. A diagnosis from a clinical perspective can assist you in obtaining reasonable adjustments and DSA. It can be helpful for knowing if medication is beneficial.
The NHS has guidelines on how to assess and diagnose ADHD. The process involves an interview with a psychiatric assessment, a review and a questionnaire of your medical and development history. Interviews can be conducted with family members and others who are familiar with you.
The symptoms should be present in at least two different settings (such as school, home and at work) and result in impairment. The behavior cannot be explained by another mental illness such as depression or anxiety. The diagnosis is usually done by psychiatrists. A private examination is a similar process. However, the doctor will also look for comorbidities.
7. Ask your GP to refer you to an Psychiatrist for Children.
If you are considering treatment, you will require a consultation with 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 determine if your symptoms have been present since you were a child.
Your doctor should be able to refer you to the NHS Psychiatrist service if they believe you require an ADHD assessment. Adults in England can now choose their own mental healthcare provider and choose private assessments.
A private ADHD assessment includes a psychotherapy 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 sought as well.
8. Ask your GP for the referral to a child Neurodevelopmental Services
If you think that your child is suffering from ADHD or have concerns about their behaviour, it's important to speak to your GP. Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and refer you for an assessment by the NHS.
The NHS in England and Wales, as well as Northern Ireland, follows NICE guidelines to diagnose ADHD. In Scotland, the Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network Guidelines (SIGN) are followed.
The NHS in England has a system known as 'Right to Choose' which means that you have the legal right to select which treatment and assessments. It can be difficult to find organizations that qualify. Many patients prefer to receive their examinations and treatments privately instead. If you decide to do so, your clinician will need to write to your GP with paperwork for an Shared Care Agreement. This means you will pay for medication privately, but the NHS should be able to cover CBT therapy.
9. Ask your GP for an appointment with a child psychiatrist
It may take a while to receive an evaluation from the NHS. The NHS mental health specialists work under immense pressure, and resources are not abundant. It can also be difficult to navigate through the NHS system.
A private ADHD assessment is much faster. This will include a clinical assessment with an adult ADHD specialist. This will include your medical history as well as developmental milestones, family history, as well as your current symptoms. Self-report questionnaires will also be used to determine the extent of your symptoms and how they affect your daily functioning. To gain additional insight, you may be asked to share your thoughts from people who know you, such as your spouse, sibling, or your friend.
It's worth mentioning that people in England have the legal right to choose their preferred provider for NHS assessments via the 'Right to Choice option. 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 procedure, it's fairly straightforward. You will need to ask your GP to refer you to an ADHD specialist and wait for an assessment.
You'll be able to have a consultation with a specialist, and they'll ask you about your medical history, developmental milestones, family history, and the particular symptoms you're experiencing. You may also be asked to complete symptoms checklists and request opinions from those who know you well.
If your GP won't refer you for an examination, it's recommended to find a different GP. This is particularly applicable if you are planning to apply for a Shared-Care Agreement with the NHS in the near future for medications. Psychiatry UK offers a few helpful suggestions for you. You can also contact private assessment providers directly.