ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
In the UK, it is your legal right to select who will conduct your NHS mental health tests. But not all healthcare professionals are certified to recognize ADHD.
Panorama has heard from patients and whistleblowers who claim that private clinics diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication without proper screening. We went undercover to find out more.
What is an assessment?
An assessment is a session with a psychiatrist to discuss how ADHD affects your life and to see if medication can aid. You will be asked to give details about your symptoms and the issues they cause. You will be asked about your family and work life. Some patients find it helpful to note down their symptoms prior to their appointment. This is to help them recall their symptoms. An assessment typically includes a 45-90 minute conversation with the psychiatrist.
There are two ways to receive an adult ADHD assessment The other is through the NHS or private. Doctors must take ADHD concerns seriously and suggest you undergo an assessment. However this system isn't without flaws. The BBC's Panorama programme raised concerns regarding the long-term use of powerful medications being given out by doctors, and an absence of proper treatment and consideration given to patients' medical history.
If you are worried about your GP's attitude to ADHD consider a different GP. On the Psychiatry-UK site you can find templates and guidelines for making your request.
Private psychiatric services are faster and more professional, especially in London. The costs typically range from PS600 to PS1,200. Private psychiatrists have experience conducting assessments of adults with diverse backgrounds and can provide a tailored approach, especially in situations where you may be extremely knowledgeable or have a successful career. They can also screen for and assist with any co-morbidities that are commonly found alongside ADHD such as depression and anxiety.
The Psychiatrist evaluates your symptoms based on the DSM V criteria and determines whether you meet the criteria of an ADHD diagnosis. You will have to demonstrate six traits (symptoms) that are present in your life today and how they've had an impact on your previous experiences.
The Psychiatrist will then advise you on your options and the next steps. You can decide to begin treatment that involves stimulants such as methylphenidate. Stimulants are a class B drug, and are subject to the Misuse of Drugs Act. They must be prescribed only by a psychiatrist or a doctor registered with the General Medical Council.
What is a diagnosis?
A diagnosis is a medical term that refers to the diagnosis of a disease, condition or injury. A doctor will provide a diagnosis and often accompany it with a treatment plan. Diagnosis is a major element of the medical school curriculum and is an integral component of the training of doctors in all fields of medicine. Medical journals frequently use the word and it is often included in periodicals about health care.
There are a number of ways to receive an ADHD diagnosis in the UK. One method is to go to your GP and request for referral to an adult ADHD specialist or clinic. A private psychiatrist is also able to provide the diagnosis. Private psychiatrists are more experienced in diagnosing ADHD in adults and can provide a faster more efficient, professional and more thorough process. They are also aware of other conditions which can cause similar symptoms to ADHD such as depression and anxiety.
Once you have been diagnosed and have a treatment plan, you can discuss options with your psychiatrist. This may include medication or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other non-medicated treatments such as relaxation or mindfulness techniques. You can then decide whether you want to take up the treatment option that best suits your needs.
A diagnosis of ADHD can also help you obtain reasonable adjustments and Disability Living Allowance. This is particularly important in the case of DSA as it assists those with disabilities and illnesses with their daily activities.
If you're considering stimulants such as methylphenidate to treat ADHD be aware that these are class B drugs and can cause addiction. If you're worried your psychiatrist may refer you to a GP that can prescribe a treatment without stimulants.
It can be frustrating and challenging to obtain an ADHD diagnosis. There are a number of factors to consider and the NHS system is often over overwhelmed and under-funded which means it can be extremely easy for doctors or other health professionals to dismiss or downplay a potential diagnosis. It is a good idea to take a list of your symptoms with you for the examination and try to be as objective as you can when you describe the symptoms.
How do I find out if I have a diagnosis?
Your child or you might have ADHD. The first step in addressing the symptoms that can disrupt your life is to get an assessment. It's a difficult process, but it is important to understand that the disorder is not a sign of laziness or a lack of intelligence. it is simply a neurological condition. It is important to understand that the proper treatment will assist you in managing your ADHD and improve your overall quality of life.
A professional will diagnose you by combining a detailed medical history as well as a review of your current symptoms, and analyzing the results of questionnaires and scales that are designed to determine ADHD in adults. They will then apply the criteria set forth by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to make an accurate diagnosis.
The evaluator also interviews you and your family members, and could conduct medical or cognitive tests to rule out any underlying causes of your symptoms. This could include things like seizures and thyroid disorders that can have similar symptoms to ADHD.
During the assessment, it is important to be forthcoming about your symptoms and how they impact your life at home, work or school. This will help the examiner to determine if you suffer from ADHD or a co-existing condition which is contributing your symptoms.
If you're thinking of taking medication, your doctor will talk to you about it once the evaluation is completed. The GP is not able to prescribe ADHD medication. However, they can offer other treatments for mental health like CBT (cognitive behavior therapy). If you do choose to seek a prescription, your clinician will draft a document for your GP called a Shared Care Agreement which outlines what treatment you will receive on the NHS and with whom.
Before you make a private diagnosis it is recommended to consult your family and friends for recommendations of experts who have expertise in ADHD assessments for adults. You can also search online for reviews of the providers in your area, and read about the various methods they use. You can also use BetterHelp's simple service to be matched within 48 hours with a therapist who is experienced.
Can I get a diagnosis through Right to Choose?
You are entitled to choose your mental health provider for an ADHD evaluation if you're an active member of the military service. After your chosen provider has prescribed treatment (usually medication or cognitive behavioral therapy) then you'll need to confirm that your GP accepts either full-time care, or something called a shared care agreement. Contacting the provider directly will enable you to determine if they have agreements with NHS. You can also check the waiting times of providers by visiting this website.
You will be asked about your symptoms, and the time they began, if your GP refers you to an ADHD specialist via the Right to Choose path. This will help your doctor better comprehend your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. It is important to answer these questions honestly and clearly.
You can find out more about how you can exercise your Right to Choose on the NHS website here. It's worth noting that the NHS currently doesn't provide an titration service for medicines through the Right to Choose pathway. Even if you're diagnosed with this route, you might still not be able access the medication you need.
Private clinics are one of the other options to receive an ADHD diagnosis. BBC's Panorama recently exposed private clinics that offer rapid and inexpensive diagnosis of ADHD. These methods could have serious consequences, such as when you attempt to claim benefits such as the Disabled Students allowance or reasonable accommodations at work.
It's important to note that the stimulants prescribed to treat ADHD are Class B substances and are therefore subject to restrictions under the Misuse of Drugs Act. If you are found guilty of committing a crime when you are taking these drugs, you could be liable for a significant fine or even jail time.
In addition to the above If you're diagnosed with ADHD through the NHS or privately, you will be entitled to disability benefits in the form of Attendance Allowance and/or Income Support depending on the severity of your condition. You'll more info also have to provide a letter from the healthcare provider proving this, along with a copy of your documents.