Need Inspiration? Look Up Adult Diagnosis Of ADHD
How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis
ADHD is a very real illness that can cause significant impairment. It can affect people of all ages and can be treated with stimulant medication.
It is essential to talk to your GP about your symptoms if you think you might be suffering from ADHD. Then, they'll be in a position to refer you for an NHS ADHD assessment.
1. See your GP
The first step is to contact your GP. It is important to tell your GP how you feel and how your symptoms impact your life, if you suspect you have ADHD. If they feel that it's beneficial, they could refer you to an ADHD specialist.
Generally the ADHD assessment is carried out by a psychiatrist or a specialist psychologist (though it isn't always the case). They will ask you questions about your symptoms and how they affect your day-to-day functioning. They might also request a review of your medical history including any mental health issues that you've faced in the past. They will request examples from your childhood and look at the effects of your symptoms various areas of your life. They will also inquire about your family history and if they have had a prior diagnosis of ADHD themselves or in their children.
It isn't always easy to get an ADHD diagnosis, particularly as adults, and sometimes you will be criticized by professionals who don't understand the disorder. This can be particularly challenging for those of color, a gender that was not assigned at birth or not a native English speaker.
It is worth asking your GP why he/she is reluctant to refer you. There are likely some valid medical reasons. It may be that they don't think your symptoms are sufficiently significant or that they have been present for a lengthy period of time. It could be worth switching GPs or utilizing your 'Right to Choose" to get a private evaluation commissioned by the NHS.
The Psychiatry Association of Britain has a really helpful guide to doing this here. If your GP isn't able to perform this, you may try a different GP or self-refer to a private provider which is much less expensive than an NHS Maudsley Referral! This will allow you to get your ADHD assessment completed and get an assessment within six weeks, which is worth a shot.
2. Request an assessment
If you are concerned about whether or not you have ADHD or whether your child may be suffering from it If you are concerned about whether or not you have ADHD, ask your GP to refer you for an assessment. They should be happy to do this, but they might inform you that you don't meet the criteria for ADHD because your symptoms are more related to another condition. You don't have to agree with them - you can ask a private provider to assess yourself. Many people find this the fastest and easiest method.
You will be asked to fill out forms and questionnaires prior the clinical interview. Most often, it involves a psychologist (although it could also be a psychiatrist or another mental health professional too).
They will look at your past and see how ADHD symptoms have affected your life. It is crucial to be open and honest in order that they can gain a full understanding of your issues. They may also observe you at work, school or at home with family and friends. They might also request a a medical exam and order tests for blood to rule out other ailments out.
It is usual for the NHS to offer an ADHD assessment for those who have been advised by their GP. However, the service could be a long wait and you should be aware that not all providers of NHS ADHD assessments are equal. Some providers have shorter wait times than others and they are more accessible on the internet. This is an advantage.
The Psychologist will assess your symptoms to determine whether you are ADHD. They will also examine for other mental disorders which can manifest with ADHD. For instance, they might check for anxiety and depression because these are co-morbid with ADHD. They will then suggest medications and, if you agree they will refer you back to your GP to discuss shared care medication.
If getting an adhd diagnosis uk choose to take the private option, the psychiatrist can make a quicker diagnosis as they are accustomed to working with adults suffering from ADHD. They also assist in assess other mental health issues and know what they are and how they impact someone with ADHD.
3. Ask for a recommendation to an expert
Schedule an appointment with your GP If you're not sure whether you have ADHD or a different mental health issue. In an open and honest conversation, you'll be able to share your issues and the ways they affect your life. If your GP takes you seriously and believes that you exhibit symptoms of ADHD then they will recommend you for an NHS ADHD assessment. If your GP is unable to do this, or you are waiting too long on the NHS ADHD assessment list, you can opt to self-refer.
You will typically be examined by psychiatrists or psychologists who are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK trained to diagnose ADHD (NICE guidelines). They'll ask you about your family history of mental health problems and will also interview your trusted acquaintance or colleague. The interview may take place in person, but video calls may also be a good option. The specialist will talk to you about your current concerns and conduct a series of clinical tests, which may include ADHD questionnaires. You'll be asked how your symptoms affect your family, work and social life. They'll also consider other conditions that might cause similar symptoms, for example depression or anxiety.
Depending on the results of your test, you could be offered medication and an treatment plan. You may also be directed back to your GP for shared management. The good news is that most ADHD adults see a big improvement in their lives after diagnosis and without medication.
Finding a psychiatrist experienced in diagnosing ADHD and whose practice complies with the guidelines of NICE isn't easy. There are private psychiatrists with extensive experience who can provide an efficient and professional service. You can search here for a psychiatrist, and many offer online assessments that may be quicker than an NHS referral. They charge between PS600 and PS1,200, but are eligible to receive financial assistance from the NHS through the Right To Choose scheme.
4. Request an answer to your question.
Getting a diagnosis of your adhd risk is trickier for adults than for children. The DSM-5 symptoms manual is designed more toward diagnosing children than adults. Generally psychiatrists will ask for notes on the symptoms and the impact they have on you in your life as well as your family members and colleagues. They might also request to look over old school reports or job reviews.
The process is usually a fairly thorough and subjective one, especially for adults. Psychiatrists will want to rule out any other possible causes of your ADHD symptoms, such as depression or thyroid problems. They'll also need to confirm that your symptoms were present since childhood. It can be challenging to prove this, especially in the case of an adult and not in contact with their former teachers. Bring proof to your exam. This could include notes, checklists, and other documents from family and friends.
It is very important that your GP takes the time to learn about your symptoms and their impact on you in your everyday life and recommend you to a specialist for an ADHD assessment. It is against NICE guidelines that GPs make their own diagnosis, since they are not psychiatrists, and can only offer treatment options, such as medication and psychotherapy.
If your doctor recommends it then the NHS will cover the cost of an ADHD assessment. Ask for a psychiatrist to perform the assessment, as they have been trained to diagnose and manage ADHD. The test should comprise both a face to face discussion and a review of the way you perform in various settings such as your home, at work, and at school. You'll also be required to answer questions.
You have the right to request a private assessment in the event that you are dissatisfied with the length of wait times for the NHS. Our guide will give you more information on how to take this step and the options available.