How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis
ADHD is a complex disorder that affects people in a variety of ways. More methods to obtain an accurate diagnosis so you can receive the right treatment.
NHS services for ADHD for adults are notoriously underfunded, and waiting times can be long. The GP can use their 'Right of Choice' option and refer you directly to a private provider.
How much does a private ADHD diagnosis cost?
If you're concerned that you may be suffering from ADHD as an adult you should visit your GP for a complete mental health assessment. You will be asked to engage in an open and honest discussion about the specific issues you are facing. In the end, your GP will recommend you to an NHS ADHD assessment if appropriate.
This can be a long process, and the initial step in this is often to seek out a private psychiatrist or psychologist who is specialized in ADHD. They will be familiar with the condition and will screen for comorbidities like depression or anxiety which are often seen in ADHD.
They will also take into account your personal history, and will take note about any symptoms that you have reported. They will ask you to describe the moment you first noticed the symptoms, as this is essential for the diagnosis.
A Psychiatrist decides if you require further examination or if you could be treated according to your current medical condition. If you need medication, they'll write an agreement of shared care agreement with your GP. This will enable you to avoid paying the NHS prescription cost for your medication, which will save you money over time.
Do I need an appointment from my GP?
ADHD is diagnosed by psychiatrists. There are also clinics that offer private diagnosis for adults. They are very familiar with the signs and symptoms of adults (including highly intelligent and successful people) and can examine for comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression. They can also assist with titration of medications and write prescriptions for NHS use.
Unfortunately, many GPs are still not supportive of making referrals for an ADHD assessment and may refuse to make the referral. If your GP isn't favorable, you might want to consider switching doctors or getting a second opinion.
The process of diagnosing will involve an exhaustive examination and assessment by a psychiatrist. This will be done using clinical interviews, rating scales and other sources, such as school reports. The psychiatrist will examine your symptoms, level of impairment and whether they are related to other medical conditions such as thyroid issues. If required, they'll also ask family members to provide additional evidence.
Do I require a referral from my GP?
The NHS offers a service for adults ADHD assessments that follow NICE guidelines. There are often long waiting times for appointments and it can be hard to get a proper diagnosis via the NHS. This is because doctors tend to have preconceived notions about who is likely to be diagnosed with ADHD and this could cause discrimination against adults of color, women who are non-white and people from a non-English speaking background.
Your GP should take your concerns about the possibility of having ADHD seriously and refer you for an assessment. They'll also inquire about your family history and mental health, but are not qualified to determine if you suffer from ADHD.
A private assessment is the most efficient method to get the diagnosis. Private providers have experience with many adults with ADHD. They can also look for co-morbidities such as depression or anxiety. They can often offer you an appropriate medication prescription following an online video chat assessment.
Do I need to see a psychiatrist?
ADHD can be a challenging to manage especially in adulthood. The symptoms can have significant implications for people's work or family lives. There are a variety of treatment options available, including medication and psychotherapy. It isn't always easy for certain people to be diagnosed. Some people are refused an ADHD diagnosis because of a lack of understanding or prejudice by mental health professionals.
The NHS is under pressure, and waiting times for patients needing a diagnosis are often too long. Luckily, there are private solutions that offer quicker assessments and diagnoses. RTN Mental Health Solutions is one of these companies, offering gold-standard ADHD and Autism assessments that meet NICE guidelines. A deposit is required to reserve the assessment, and the balance can be paid in five or three instalments invoiced by RTN.
Once a diagnosis is made the psychiatrist will send a letter to your GP with the diagnosis. You can decide to keep private care with your doctor or share the care with your GP, or be discharged back to the NHS.
Do I need to talk to with a psychologist?
When it is time to determine the cause of ADHD in adults psychiatrists are the person who will evaluate you. They will evaluate your symptoms to determine if they are impacting your life in a significant way. They will also want to confirm that the symptoms were present since childhood. So old school reports could be required.
Psychiatrists are experienced in assessing adults suffering from ADHD and will work with you to find the best treatment solution for your needs. They can determine whether you have comorbid conditions, and recommend you to other specialists if needed.
A BBC Panorama investigation revealed long waiting times for patients to visit a doctor for an assessment and medication on the NHS. Psychiatry UK offers a private adult ADHD assessment and medication service through the Right to Choose scheme in England. This is a comprehensive assessment and titration package which includes follow up appointments, letter to doctor and shared care agreement with CAMHS.
Do I need to see a psychologist who is a clinical one?
Certain private assessment providers require that a patient have a GP referral letter, whereas others do not. It is best to check with the provider you choose prior to making an appointment.
Adults usually seek assistance by going through an evaluation of psychiatric disorders like ADHD. A thorough adult ADHD assessment will require an appointment with psychiatrist. He will examine your mental health history and any current problems that you're suffering from. They'll also take into account any other mental health issues you may have and any family history of depression or other mental illnesses.
Psychiatrists have a wealth of experience diagnosing and treating ADHD. They'll be able provide you with a complete report which can be forwarded to your GP. They'll also be able to suggest treatment options, including medication, which is difficult to locate on the NHS. You can also find support groups on the internet or in person for those suffering from ADHD and can provide advice and reassurance.
Do I have to see a child psychiatrist or adolescent psychologist?
Children psychiatrists are trained in treating children and adults, but are not qualified to diagnose ADHD. This is why so many people seek out private clinics for a diagnosis of their ADHD. They can offer a more thorough diagnosis, and examine the factors that may contribute to your symptoms. This could include mental health issues, medical conditions such as thyroid issues or lifestyle factors.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD your doctor will discuss possible treatment options with you including whether or not you would prefer to take medication. They will also ask you about your family background and how your symptoms have affected your life. They will also ask you to confirm that the symptoms have been with you since the time you were a child. This could involve asking your parents for assistance or searching for old school papers in the back of the closet!
If you are an adult and waiting to be assessed for ADHD by your local NHS service You can try to reduce the wait time by using Right To Choose. This is a legal way to get a NHS-funded ADHD diagnosis without having to wait for years.
Do I have to see a child and adolescent psychologist?
It isn't easy to diagnose ADHD in adults. It can be difficult to get a diagnosis by your GP because of the stigma associated with the condition. Finding the right treatment can be difficult.
The first step would be to talk with a psychiatrist who has ADHD expertise. This may be in person or via video calls. The evaluation will consist of a series of questions about your symptoms and how they affect your life. It will also include an organized interview with the psychiatrist. The psychiatrist will use this information to determine if you have ADHD.
The NHS currently has a policy known as "Right to Choice," which allows patients to select their own mental health care provider. You can now receive your ADHD assessment privately, instead of waiting for the NHS. This option is open to anyone living in England and is a great way to avoid long wait times. If you'd like to know more about this process, check out the website of Psychiatry UK.