How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK

When seeking referral, assessment or support for ADHD People often come across an array of gatekeepers in the network. It is clear that many of these gatekeepers, particularly in NHS CCGs, do not follow the national guidelines for treating patients and their legal duty to stop health inequalities and discrimination.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that some private ADHD clinics are not sufficiently controlled. This may result in uncoordinated diagnostic criteria for adult adhd (new content from bookmarking.stream) thresholds and assessment reporting, which can cause difficulties when trying to transfer to the NHS.

How do I obtain a medical diagnosis?

ADHD is an illness of the mind and is only diagnosed by a medical professional who has specialist knowledge. This includes psychologists and psychiatrists (who are the only ones certified to diagnose ADHD here in the UK). People with mental illnesses often have ADHD symptoms, especially those who diagnosis adhd have been struggling for a long period of time. This means they may be feeling stuck in their current circumstances and are in desperate need of assistance to improve their lives. However it is true that the NHS can be a challenge to navigate for those who are seeking an assessment.

You can receive an appointment with the NHS when you ask your GP to refer you to an expert. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and be able to refer you for an assessment however, you may have to wait while the specialist is available.

When assessing for ADHD health professionals will look at the family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues you have had in the past. They will also observe you in various situations, such as at home, at school or at work, to assess your behaviour. You will be asked to write about your symptoms, and how they impact your daily life. They may also ask about your social life, relationships and any other activities you do on a regular basis.

A specialist will look at all the evidence before making an assessment. They will consider criteria for adhd diagnosis such as being restless and fidgety at all times, having short-term memory issues or difficulty focusing or keeping up at school or at work, not completing tasks and being extremely active. The diagnosis is based on the pattern of behaviors that are present in multiple settings and affect your functioning.

In recent months, there has been a rise in celebrities talking about their experiences of being diagnosed with ADHD. This has led to a spike in the number of people who are seeking an assessment, which could lead to long waiting times for healthcare professionals. Some families and patients opsymptoms are having in a way that is understandable to them. You will need to give examples of how your symptoms have impacted on all aspects of your life, from work to relationships, and how they have changed over time.

There may be tests done as part of the assessment for example, the blood test to look for any allergies. Your therapist might suggest additional tests to check if you have other medical problems.

If you self-refer, or going through the Right to Choose scheme, it is important to understand that even though you pay for your private evaluation but you will still need to wait for NHS scheduled appointments - and this may differ between NHS trusts and also from one doctor to another.

What is the outcome if I don't receive a diagnosis?

You may be diagnosed with ADHD when you have several things in your favor. It can be harder for certain groups of people to be diagnosed, for instance if you are a person of colour or assigned female at birth or if you have other mental health diagnoses like depression or bipolar disorder.

If you're having trouble getting an assessment, speak to your GP and request an appointment. It is also a good idea to find a private psychiatric provider that specialises in adult ADHD evaluations. They can provide a more rapid service than the NHS.

The psychiatrist will examine your symptoms and decide whether they meet the criteria for ADHD using the Nice guidelines as a reference. They will also try to determine the cause of your issues, such as anxiety, depression or thyroid issues. This can be a extensive process, and it's not always easy for adults to provide all the evidence required (for instance, they might struggle to locate old school reports in the back of the cupboard).

It's also possible that you will not be diagnosed with ADHD, even when your GP is willing to refer you to a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist can only diagnose ADHD if they believe that your ADHD symptoms cause significant impairment. If they believe you do not meet the criteria, they'll tell you the reason.

In the UK it is legal to access treatment through the NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland if you are diagnosed with ADHD. You could be able obtain medication through an individual funding request, however it will depend on the location you reside in. You may be referred to your local specialist to prescribe the medication you prefer. NHS specialists recommend Methylphenidate or Atomoxetine first and don't make plans for long titration periods.

It is beneficial to join a support group for adults with ADHD, both in person and online. They can be extremely positive and reassuring and can be a great way to share your story with people who understand.

How can I get treatment?

GPs may refer adults to specialists ADHD services for assessment and medication. These services are usually found in NHS hospitals or NHS community health teams. For example, the Maudsley Hospital, London, provides a national ADHD diagnostic service for adults. However, a large number of NHS healthcare providers do not recognize these reports as legitimate and patients often face difficulties in their access to treatment including long waiting times and rejection of referrals (see below).

Support groups at the consensus meeting revealed that many ADHD patients seek out private assessments and diagnosis to overcome the absence of NHS funding in this area. Private clinics provide a faster and more professional and a generally clear diagnosis. They also assist in screening for comorbidities like anxiety and depression, which are common in ADHD. They can assist with titration of the final dose. The cost can vary from PS500 to PS1,200. Sometimes the diagnosis and dosage are priced separately.

The diagnosis and treatment for ADHD can vary from person to person. The most commonly used treatment is medication, and it can be in the form of methylphenidates (Ritalin, Concerta) or atomoxetine (Strateva). Sometimes, non-drug interventions can be beneficial, like education and training for parents and families of people with ADHD. Certain people with ADHD have discovered that changing their diet and developing an appropriate schedule for sleep can help. Some people have found that psychotherapy and hypnotherapy may aid in reducing symptoms. However the evidence behind these therapies is less extensive.

It is unacceptable that many adults with ADHD cannot access the treatment and care they need through the NHS. This issue must be addressed immediately by UK government officials and regulators and clinical organizations. People suffering from ADHD must have access to treatment that is free of discrimination and in accordance with their rights under the law. Long-term planning of funding, and a coordinated commissioning of health, social care and judicial services are crucial to meet this unmet need. The current state of affairs is not sustainable and the impact on individuals, families and the entire society is devastating. It's time to invest.