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The No. One Question That Everyone Working In ADHD Diagnosis Should Be Able Answer
How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK

Patients with ADHD typically have to deal with a number of gatekeepers when seeking referrals or assessment and support. It is clear that a few of these gatekeepers in NHS CCGs are not following national guidelines for treating patients or their legal obligations to avoid discrimination and health inequality.

Anecdotal evidence suggests certain private ADHD clinics aren't adequately monitored. This can result in inconsistent diagnostic thresholds, and assessment reporting that could cause problems when trying to transfer to the NHS.

How do I find out if I have a diagnosis?

ADHD is an illness of the mind, meaning it can only be diagnosed by a healthcare professional who has specialist knowledge. This includes psychologists and psychiatrists (who are the only professionals qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK). People suffering from mental illness frequently report ADHD symptoms, especially those who have been struggling for a long period of time. This means that they feel trapped in their current circumstances and need assistance to improve their lives. However the NHS can be difficult to navigate for those who are seeking diagnosis.

It is possible to get a diagnosis through the NHS by asking your GP for the referral to see an expert. Your GP will take your concerns seriously, and may refer you to an expert for an assessment. However, you might need to wait until the specialist is available.

To determine if you have ADHD healthcare professionals look at any mental health issues that you may have faced in the past and your family history. They will be observing you in various settings, including at home, at school or at work, to assess your behaviour. They will ask you to write about your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They might inquire about your social life, your relationships, and other activities you participate in regularly.

A specialist will examine all the evidence before arriving at a diagnose. They will consider criteria such as being restless and fidgety all the time, having an insufficient memory for short-term events or difficulty focusing, having difficulty keeping up in school or at work, failing to complete tasks and being extremely active. The diagnosis is dependent on the pattern of behaviors that can be seen in a variety of settings and affect your functioning.

In the last few months, there is a surge in the number of prominent people who have spoken out about their experiences with being diagnosed with ADHD. This has led to a rise in the number of people who are seeking an assessment, which could lead to long waiting times for healthcare professionals. Patients and their families bypass the NHS in order to undergo assessments at private clinics. This could be costly. It is important to choose a doctor you trust and be prepared to answer questions honestly about your symptoms.

What happens during the assessment process?

Whether you're self-referring or getting referred by your GP, the process of assessing for ADHD symptoms is similar. The person who is conducting the test will ask questions about your symptoms and how they affect your life. For instance, "What problems do experience at home?" "How does your symptoms impact your work?" "Do you have other symptoms you think may be related to ADHD?"

Depending on where you go to get your assessment there could be various forms or questionnaires for you to complete prior to your appointment. Complete these forms in a timely manner will help to avoid any delays to your appointment. You should also familiarise yourself with the symptoms of ADHD to be able to recognise the signs and their effects on your life.

The evaluation will typically include an interview with a psychiatrist, specialist nurse or any other qualified healthcare professional. The therapist will assess both your mental health and ADHD symptoms to determine if they are caused by another condition or not (NICE guidelines). The therapist will then go over treatment options with you, which may involve medication.

Keep in mind that nurses and doctors are not as knowledgeable about adult ADHD as psychiatrists. Therefore, it is important to prepare your symptoms and practice them prior to when you take part in the evaluation. This will allow you to explain the impact that your symptoms are having in a manner that they can understand. You'll need to provide examples of how your symptoms affect your life in all areas including your work, your relationships, and then over time.

As part of the examination, you might be required to take certain tests, like a test for allergies. If you are suffering from any other medical issues Your therapist may suggest additional tests to look for these, too.

If you self-refer, or going through the Right to Choose scheme, it is important to understand that even though you pay for your private evaluation, you still have to wait for NHS funded appointments - and this can differ between NHS trusts and from one clinician to another.

What happens if I don't get an answer to my question?

You can be diagnosed with ADHD in the event that you have a variety of things in your favor. Certain groups might have a difficult time getting diagnosed. For instance when they are of color, were born female or if they have other mental health conditions like bipolar disorder or depression.

If you are having difficulty getting a diagnosis, consider speaking to your GP about it and asking for the referral to a psychiatrist. You can also try to locate a private psychiatrist who is skilled in adult ADHD tests. They often provide more rapid service than the NHS.

The psychiatrist will examine your symptoms and determine whether they fit the criteria for ADHD, using the Nice guidelines as a guideline. They will also look for other possible causes for your issue like anxiety, depression or thyroid issues. It's a lengthy process, and adults may not have all the information they require.

You may not be diagnosed with ADHD even when your GP accepts. A psychiatrist can only diagnose ADHD in the event that they believe your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment. If they believe that you don't meet the criteria, they'll tell you the reason.


If you have been diagnosed with ADHD, it is legal in the UK to receive treatment through the NHS. This applies to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. You may be able to get medication through an Individual funding request, however it will depend on the location you reside in. You may be referred to a specialist in your local area who will prescribe the medication you prefer. NHS specialists are more likely to prescribe Methylphenidate, Atomoxetine or Straterra first and they do not always plan for long intervals of titration.

Joining a support group whether in person or online for adults with ADHD can be beneficial. They can be helpful and calm. It can also be helpful to share your experiences with others who understand.

How can I receive treatment?

Adults are sent to ADHD specialist services for assessment and treatment. These services are usually located in NHS hospitals or NHS community health teams. For example the Maudsley Hospital, London, offers a national ADHD diagnostic service for adults. However, a majority of NHS healthcare providers do not recognise these reports as valid, and patients often encounter blockages in their access to treatment such as long waiting times and rejection of referrals (see below).

Support groups at the consensus meeting reported that many ADHD patients seek out private assessments and diagnosis to overcome the absence of NHS investment in this area. Private clinics provide a speedier and more professional, and generally understanding diagnosis. They can also help screen for comorbidities like depression and anxiousness, which are common in ADHD. They also help with titration of the final dosage. Prices vary from PS500 to PS1,200 However, sometimes a diagnosis and titration is priced separately.

The diagnosis and treatment for ADHD differs from person to. iampsychiatry.com is medication, and it can be in the form of methylphenidates (Ritalin, Concerta) or atomoxetine (Strateva). Other interventions that are not drugs can be beneficial like education and training for families and parents of those with ADHD. Some people with ADHD have found that changing their diet and developing an effective sleep schedule can help. Some people find that psychotherapy and hypnotherapy can alleviate their symptoms. However the evidence supporting these treatments is not as extensive.

It is inexcusable that so many adults with ADHD cannot get the treatment and care they need through the NHS. This situation must be addressed immediately by UK government officials and regulatory and clinical bodies. People suffering from ADHD should have access to treatment, free from discrimination and in accordance with their rights under the law. To reduce this unmet demand, it is vital to create long-term plans for funding and commission health, social care and judicial services together. The current situation is not sustainable and the impact on individuals, families and society is hugely damaging. It is now the time to invest in this area.