How to Get an ADHD Assessment in the UK
It can be a challenge to obtain an ADHD assessment however it is essential to follow the correct steps. Begin by talking to your GP and explain why you think you might have ADHD. Your GP should be able to take you seriously and ask you to fill in a screening tool.
You can also self-refer to a private medical professional to get an ADHD assessment. This is a faster route than using the NHS.
1. Talk to your GP
There is a growing awareness of ADHD in the UK however there are still biases that make it difficult for people to diagnose. Some of these biases include the belief that ADHD is only a problem for males or people from certain backgrounds, and for those who do not fit into the stereotype.
If your GP won't refer you for an assessment, you should think about finding a different doctor, especially when the NHS offers the Right to Choose medication referral. Psychiatry-UK has a useful guide about this here.
A typical ADHD assessment involves a series sessions with a psychiatrist concerning your symptoms and questionnaires. You may also be asked about your family history and what effects your symptoms can have on you. They will also determine whether you have any other health issues.
2. Request your GP for a referral
In England, GPs are able to refer adults with ADHD to a psychiatrist through the 'Right to Choose process. This lets you access the NHS quicker and reduce waiting times.
Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and have a candid and honest discussion about the reasons 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 should follow NICE guidelines. These include an interview, questionnaires and a review of your symptoms, family history, and input from others who know you well. A diagnosis will help you get the support you require, including treatment with medication and CBT. Treatments for ADHD are stimulants and can only be prescribed by a qualified clinician. If you've been given a personal diagnosis, your clinician will write to your GP asking for a prescription under a 'Shared Care Agreement'.
3. Ask your GP to recommend you to a Psychiatrist
ADHD can be a debilitating condition. It can be challenging to keep up with school at work, or in relationships. It can also impact your health and lead to other mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression.
The NHS offers specialist ADHD assessments via a process called Right to Choose (RTC). This is a legal right you have in England.
You'll meet a psychiatrist at your appointment who will inquire you about your symptoms as well as your family history. Bring documentation like performance evaluations or copies of previous psychological tests. It is also possible to talk to your parents or other people who know you well. They will then decide whether you're diagnosed with ADHD. They may suggest you consider treatment options. They'll also talk about ongoing care options, which could be ongoing private treatment or being discharged back to your GP for shared management.
4. Ask your doctor to refer you to the Neurodevelopmental Services
It can be a long process to get an ADHD assessment, particularly when you live in a region where there aren't many services. The NHS psychiatrist will ask you questions to gauge the severity of your symptoms and speak to you about your problems. They might also ask those in your life who know you well (spouse or sibling, or parents for adults) to describe your behaviours. This could provide the kind of personal insight that cannot be found from questionnaires.
After you've received your diagnosis, the specialist will provide a report your GP. If your doctor agrees to the "Shared Care" agreement, they will arrange for you to start treatment through the NHS. This will include prescription medication and CBT therapy. It could take a while as the NHS is under pressure and resources are scarce.
5. Ask your GP for an appointment with 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 are not due to a personal failure, but a neurological disorder. This can ease feelings of guilt, shame, and self doubt.
The psychiatrist will collect information from a questionnaire or interviews with your family, teachers and other people who know you well. They will then compile an account of their findings and any possible diagnosis. You will be given an treatment plan that could include medication or CBT.
If you are an adult in England you may also opt to be recommended by your GP through the Right To Choose scheme to a private clinic. This is quicker and cheaper than waiting for an appointment from the NHS. However, you will be paying for the exam yourself.
6. Ask your GP to refer you to a Child Neurodevelopmental Service
Ask your GP to refer you to a specialist in the event that you or your child suspects they are suffering from ADHD. A clinical diagnosis can assist you in obtaining reasonable adjustments and DSA. It can be helpful for knowing if medication is beneficial.
The NHS provides guidelines on how to assess and diagnose ADHD. The process includes an interview with a psychiatrist exam, a review and questionnaires of your medical and developmental background. Family members and others who know you well could be questioned as well.
Adults and children have to show symptoms in more than one situations, such as school, home and work and the symptoms lead to impairment. The behavior can't be explained by a mental health problem such as anxiety or depression. A psychiatrist is usually the one to make the diagnosis. A private assessment will involve a similar process, but the specialist will also look for any comorbid conditions.
7. Ask your GP for an appointment with a child psychiatrist
If you are considering treatment, you will have to consult a psychiatrist for an assessment and diagnosis. They will request you to fill out an inventory of ADHD traits (symptoms) and how they affect your life. They will also determine whether your symptoms have been present since you were a kid.
camhs adhd assessment should be able to refer you to the NHS Psychiatrist service if they are of the opinion that you require an ADHD assessment. Adults in England can now choose their own mental health provider, and can choose private assessments.
A private ADHD assessment involves a clinical appointment with a specialist psychiatrist as well as questionnaires, including checklists for symptoms and behavior rating scales. You might also be asked to give input from family members or other people who know you well.
8. Ask your GP to refer you to a Child Neurodevelopmental Service
It's important that you speak to your GP when you suspect that your child may have ADHD or if you're concerned about their behavior. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and recommend you to the NHS for an evaluation.
The NHS in England and 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 a system called '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 a company that meet the requirements for this. Many individuals choose to have their examinations and treatments privately instead. If you decide to do this your doctor will write to your GP and then provide documentation for a Shared-Care agreement. This means that you'll pay for medication privately, however the NHS will provide CBT therapy.
9. Ask your GP to refer you to an a Child Psychiatrist
It may take some time to receive an evaluation from the NHS. The NHS mental health professionals are under great pressure, and resources are limited. It can be a challenge to navigate through the NHS system.
A private ADHD assessment can be completed quicker. This will include a medical 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 functioning. To gain additional insight, you may be asked to give input from people who are familiar with you, such as your spouse, sibling, or friend.
It's important to note that in England individuals have the legal right of choosing their provider of NHS assessments through the "Right to Choose" route. This can reduce the length of wait.
10. Ask your GP to refer you to a Child Neurodevelopmental Service.
The process for getting an NHS diagnosis is relatively easy. You'll need to ask your GP to refer you to an ADHD specialist, and then wait for an assessment.
You will be scheduled for a clinical consultation with an expert. They will inquire about your medical history, developmental milestones and family history as well as the symptoms you are experiencing. You may also be asked to complete the checklist of symptoms and seek input from people who know you well.
If your GP does not recommend an evaluation, it is worthwhile to find a new GP. This is especially true if you intend to apply for a Shared-Care Agreement with the NHS in the near future to receive medications. Psychiatry UK has some helpful tips for you. You can also make contact with private assessment providers directly.