How to Get Diagnosed With ADHD
Consult your GP if you suspect that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD. They aren't able to diagnose you there and then but will probably refer you for an assessment in the clinic.
This will be with a psychiatrist (or psychologist who is located in Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales) and they'll evaluate you for ADHD. They'll also write a report that'll assist you in making reasonable adjustments and DSA.
1. Talk to your doctor
The first thing you should do when you suspect that your child is suffering with ADHD is to see your GP. If they suspect that you suffer from ADHD they will refer you to an expert, if required. It is advisable to bring some notes in writing with you to this appointment.
Your GP should then send you to a psychiatrist or psychologist to assess your ADHD symptoms. The process can take between 45 and 90 minutes. It involves examining the ADHD diagnostic criteria, asking about your family history and identifying any mental health issues you or your family members may have had in the recent past. You might be asked to fill out several questionnaires. The psychiatrist will decide if you fit the ADHD criteria and will also discuss with you treatment options.
It is crucial to recognize that it is difficult for adults to be diagnosed with ADHD because they have learned to hide their symptoms. how is adhd diagnosed in adults will usually want to see evidence that the symptoms are causing you significant impairment. This is often done through old school reports or letters from family members. They will also need to rule out other reasons for your difficulties like depression or anxiety.
If you have difficulty getting an accurate diagnosis from your NHS GP, it is worth seeking a personal assessment with one of the numerous services available on the Right to Choose website. It can be frustrating dealing with GPs who don't know the scientific basis behind ADHD. But perseverance is key.
2. Ask for a referral
A diagnosis from a doctor is required to receive Disability Living Allowance and other reasonable adjustments. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland NICE Guidelines provide the right to request an NHS-funded specialist ADHD assessment.
Your doctor may request you to complete an assessment form that will be evaluated by psychiatrists. They might also consult with other professionals who have known you - such as teachers or health workers. They will look for a pattern that is similar to the symptoms of ADHD in adults who have been present since childhood. They will also consider other health conditions such as thyroid or depression to determine if they might explain your symptoms.
Your Psychiatrist may discuss the options for treatment with you following the evaluation. This could include medication, which can be beneficial for many people who suffer from ADHD. If you decide to take medication, your Psychiatrist could refer you to your GP to share the management of your care.
If you're not ready to take medication, your Psychiatrist can refer you for an independent occupational or psychological therapy assessment. This will help you manage your symptoms and develop the quality of your life. You may also find it useful to join a support group for people suffering from ADHD. They can be very supportive and comforting.
Many people who suffer from ADHD have to struggle to make ends meet in their daily lives. This can result in low self-esteem and anger about their lack of success at work or in relationships. They can also feel that others don't understand them and may be angry or bitter. There are many ways to receive assistance. You can join online groups or go to meetings in person. These services are offered by many good organisations.
3. Get a second opinion
A second opinion is beneficial for a lot of people. This is particularly important when you've been misdiagnosed, or if you suffer from a condition like anxiety or depression which could co-exist alongside ADHD. Psychiatrists are experts in diagnosing mental health disorders and can provide a clear understanding of what you're experiencing and how it may be affecting your life.
It is important to discuss your mental history with a psychiatrist in detail because it could affect whether you are able to meet the ADHD diagnostic criteria. You can self-refer, obtain a GP referral or schedule an appointment privately with a specialist who specializes in adult ADHD.
If you decide to self-refer it's recommended to gather any documents you might have prior to your appointment. Also, note down about the symptoms you encounter and how they affect various aspects of your life. You can also request that a copy of your documents be sent to the psychiatrist prior to your appointment.
A specialist in adult ADHD will provide a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, looking at how they impact your daily functioning and assessing any comorbidities that may be present, including anxiety or depression. A clinical interview and questionnaires are commonly used to establish a diagnosis. This is then followed up by a letter. A diagnosis of ADHD can help you access the assistance you require including medication and psychotherapy, to manage your symptoms. It can also help you access support for disabled people, such as Disabled Students' Allowance and reasonable adjustments in college or at school.
4. Go for a clinical assessment
If your GP thinks you might have ADHD and it affects your life in a significant manner then they'll refer you to a clinical assessment. It's usually a thorough process that involves talking to someone (often a psychiatrist) about your symptoms, and filling out questionnaires and checklists. They may also ask to examine your school records or to talk to anyone who knows you as a child. It's because ADHD is not thought to develop in adults, and they'll be required to confirm your symptoms since your childhood.
Once you've been referred for an assessment, you'll most likely be given a choice of the provider you'd like to visit. This is because patients in England have the legal right to choose their mental healthcare providers and their local NHS trust. This is referred to as Right to Choose and you can find information on how to make use of it on this page by ADHD UK.
If you're a student you may be able to be assessed by your university. If they're happy to do this, then the report should be enough to access assistance through reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student' Allowance. However, they won't be able to prescribe medication for you - so you may want to seek an independent diagnosis instead.
Your doctor will determine if your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment, and may recommend treatment or other options. They'll probably also discuss your long-term goals, as well as any other concerns you may have. They'll then make a decision on what to do next and send you back to your GP with plans. In the majority of instances, a doctor will identify ADHD and then discuss with you whether or not you'd like to think about taking medication. They might also refer you to your GP.
5. Get a diagnosis
Adult ADHD can be difficult diagnose. Many medical professionals, particularly in the NHS do not understand how the condition manifests in adults. They might be biased against a diagnosis, or simply not take the symptoms seriously. It can be difficult to determine the correct diagnosis. Persistence is rewarded.
You'll need an expert assessment from a psychologist, specialist nurse or psychiatrist. Only these healthcare professionals can diagnose ADHD in the UK. You will need to explain how you are struggling with the symptoms and the reason you believe they may be caused by ADHD. They will be interested in knowing that your symptoms will last and have a significant effect on you. This could involve finding old school records and asking family to fill out forms regarding your past struggles.
After your assessment, you'll be able to discuss whether you would like to look into alternative medication options. This is usually an agreement to share care with your GP and you will be able to pay for the medication using an NHS prescription. You can also make your diagnosis privately and then purchase the medication from the pharmacy.
A private diagnosis will not be sufficient to qualify for reasonable adjustments or the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA). To receive medication through this route, you will require a referral from the NHS and a full evaluation of ADHD by a psychiatrist.