How To Get An ADHD Assessment: 10 Things I'd Like To Have Known Earlier
How to Get adhd assessment for women in the UK
Finding an ADHD assessment from the NHS isn't always easy. The waiting lists can be lengthy and there are times when people are diagnosed with a other condition that may be a better explanation for their problems like depression or anxiety.
Your GP should take your concerns seriously and ask why you think you might be suffering from ADHD. They will then refer you to an NHS assessment.
1. Check with your GP
In England and Wales you can get an ADHD assessment through the NHS and it might be possible to obtain medication if this is appropriate for you. You'll need to explain to your GP why you believe you may have ADHD and the effects it has on your life. Your GP should take this seriously and will request you to complete some forms or a screening tool before they send you to a specialist to have an assessment. Adults should create a list that includes specific ADHD signs and symptoms they encounter on a daily basis. Prepare to provide examples if asked.
Your psychiatrist will work with you to assess whether or not you have ADHD, and they will employ a variety tools and approaches including symptom checklists, behavior rating scales, and interviews with you along with your family members, friends and other people who know you well. They will review the information they gather and create a report. They will then discuss with you what their recommendation is and it could be that you have an ADHD diagnosis and, if necessary, that you start treatment with medications.
You may find that some GPs are not willing to make an appointment to an assessment or not agree to prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS In this instance, it's best to find a different GP who can be more accommodating. The website of Psychiatry-UK offers helpful information on this topic.
In England, you have the legal right to decide where your GP recommends you to receive an ADHD assessment, so long it is provided through the NHS and it doesn't cost more than going through the NHS directly. If you are unable get an improvement from your local CCG You can request ICAS to help you submit an appeal to the national Appeal Panel. If you live in Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales or Northern Ireland, the NHS has different rules and guidance. You might be able to avail services through Right to Choose, and Psychiatry UK has some advice on this subject here.
2. Ask for a referral
There are two ways to get an ADHD assessment, based on the area you live in. The first is to go through the NHS by asking your GP to refer you. It can be a lengthy process, and sometimes you'll have to wait years to get a diagnosis. Alternately, you can opt for the 'Right of Choice route. This is a legal right which allows you to request a referral to a private provider when you feel that the NHS waiting time for an ADHD assessment is too long.
If you choose to do this, then your GP must agree to this, and must also sign a "shared care agreement" with the service provider you've chosen. The majority of GPs are not willing to sign shared care agreements with patients who have been privately diagnosed due to the fact that they lack the experience in diagnosing ADHD or prescribing its medication.
In the majority of cases, you can then make an appointment with a private provider you prefer. The ADHD specialist will conduct an interview and questionnaires with you and your child (if older than 11) prior to completing an initial assessment. The specialist will then give you a clear indication of whether they think that your symptoms are caused by ADHD, or not.
If it is determined that ADHD could be the reason behind your issue In most cases, you will be sent home with additional questionnaires for your school or workplace. They will then set up an appointment for a follow-up to discuss the findings and discuss your diagnosis. This appointment is an opportunity to discuss medication options. If they determine that medication is necessary then your GP will then be informed and be asked to prescribe the medication to you. Any other recommendations relating to support at work or school will be discussed with your specialist and any charges are discussed prior to beginning. Many private providers offer free advice and support in between appointments via email or phone calls.
3. Take a look at the assessment
It can be difficult to get an ADHD diagnosis in the UK, and it is often misdiagnosed with other mental health disorders. The best way to get a diagnosis of ADHD is through an assessment conducted by an experienced consultant psychiatrist who is specialized in the condition.
It could take for a long time to receive an assessment from the NHS. Ask your GP for advice if you're concerned about the wait time. Right to Choose is a new NHS initiative which gives you the option of choosing the company to which you are being referred. This lets you skip the NHS waiting lists and will make the whole process much more efficient.
When you visit for your ADHD assessment, the psychiatrist will take an in-depth history of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. The psychiatrist will then conduct a systematic clinical evaluation with the same set of questions. It is helpful to learn about the traits (symptoms) of ADHD prior to your appointment. You should write down examples, as it is common for people's minds to be blank when talking about their own experience.
The test will also consist of physical examinations as well as interviews with relatives, teachers and colleagues. The psychiatrist needs accurate and complete data to make the best diagnosis.
If a psychiatrist believes that you or your child have ADHD, they will refer you for a full diagnostic evaluation at a specially-commissioned adult ADHD service. This will be a further appointment that could involve various tests, including psychological tests and brain imaging to aid in determining the severity of the disorder.
Some people choose to go private for their ADHD evaluation - this is growing in popularity as waiting lists in the NHS continue to grow. There are a variety of organizations in the UK that offer private assessments for ADHD according to the location you reside in. You can find a listing here or speak to your GP to determine which option is best for you. Private examinations are generally faster than relying on the NHS however, it's crucial to be aware that your health insurance will not cover the cost.
4. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can cause serious problems in many areas of life such as work or relationships, so an accurate diagnosis can help with these issues. Unfortunately, due to the increasing number of people requiring ADHD assessments, NHS services are struggling to keep up with demand and wait times can be lengthy. Some people opt to pay privately for their assessment. This allows them to bypass NHS waiting lists and begin treatment sooner.
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD the next step is to put a treatment plan together. This could include medication, or CBT therapy. This is something you should be aware of prior to completing your assessment. It will help you determine the best course of treatment for you.
Depending on where you live in the UK You may be able to get an ADHD assessment via the NHS. If this is the case, you should be taken to an expert psychiatrist or paediatrician. They will assess your symptoms and make a diagnosis based on the NICE 87 guidelines.
Self-referral is an option if you don't have a GP referral. A private mental health professional will conduct an ADHD assessment. This is typically faster than the NHS method, but you must ensure whether your GP has an "Shared Care Agreement" with your private physician.
Your expert will ask you questions about your past and present behaviors. They will look for traits (symptoms) of ADHD, such as inattentiveness and hyperactivity/impulsiveness. They will also inquire about the way these traits impact your life now. It is beneficial to familiarize yourself with the criteria for diagnosing ADHD and record instances of the ways you have been affected by these traits in your life prior to making an appointment.
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. It opens the door to a myriad of treatment options and can provide an understanding of oneself and awareness that some previously undiagnosed adults find especially beneficial. It can also lead to better relationships and a more fulfilled life.