Introduction

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD and Attention Deficit Disorder ADD are neurodevelopmental conditions that are best considered to impact the individual across their Lifespan. It can present through a range of symptoms, including inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Thought also has other features including mood instability, a sensitivity to rejection in relationships, and propensity to other conditions such as Anxiety Disorders and Dyslexia.

If you suspect that you or someone you know might have ADHD, it is helpful to understand the referral process to obtain a diagnosis and subsequent support in. it is advised to undertake the following:

I. Contacting Your GP

The first step in the ADHD referral process is to contact your General Practitioner (GP). This can be done as soon as you suspect you may have ADHD, as early diagnosis and interventions positively improve long-term outcomes, and Quality of Life.

  • Make an appointment with your GP to discuss your concerns.
  • Prepare for the appointment by making a list of your concerns and specific symptoms.
  • During the appointment, your GP will ask questions about your medical history, family history, and perform a general health check.

II. Initial Assessment

Once you have shared your concerns with your GP, they will conduct an initial assessment. This process helps to determine whether your symptoms align with ADHD or if further investigation is needed.

  • Your GP may make an assessment of the severity and persistence of the symptoms and assess whether they impair activities of daily living.
  • Your GP may recommend some lifestyle changes, such as sleep hygiene, diet adjustments, or exercise, and ask you to return for a follow-up appointment to monitor whether any interventions have been helpful.

III. Referral for Specialist Assessment

If your GP suspects that your symptoms are consistent with ADHD / ADD, they may refer you to a specialist for a more in-depth assessment.

  • The specialist will be either a Psychiatrist, or Psychologist, with expertise in ADHD.
  • For adults, the referral may be to an Adult ADHD Service or a community mental health team.

IV. Specialist Assessment and Diagnosis

Upon referral, the specialist will conduct a comprehensive assessment to confirm or rule out an ADHD diagnosis.

  • The specialist will gather information from various sources, such as school reports, work evaluations, and may contact family members.
  • You will be asked to fill out questionnaires or rating scales to help identify specific ADHD symptoms and their impact on daily life.
  • The specialist may also assess for co-existing conditions, such as Anxiety Disorders, common in about 60-70 % of Adults; Depression, or other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions such as Dyslexia, Bipolar Disorder and Autistic Spectrum Condition. ADHD can also lead to a greater chance of having problems with Drugs or Alcohol.

V. Receiving a Diagnosis

After the specialist has completed their assessment, they will provide a diagnosis.

  • If the diagnosis is confirmed as ADHD, the specialist will discuss treatment options, such as medication, therapy, and support strategies.
  • If the diagnosis is not ADHD, the specialist may explore other possible causes for the symptoms and recommend appropriate next steps.

VI. Treatment and Support

Once a diagnosis is confirmed, a treatment plan will be agreed between the individual and the clinician, to help address the specific needs of the individual.

  • Treatment options may include medication, behavioural therapy, psycho-education, and lifestyle changes.
  • Ongoing support and monitoring will be provided by the specialist. It was common to undertake investigations such as an ECG (an electrical assessment of the heart) though this is only rarely required now. Ideally the treating Clinician and GP enter a Shared Care Agreement SCA, to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment plan and adjust it as needed.
  • The SCA allows the funding of ADHD medication via the NHS.
  • GP’s are not obliged to enter into a SCA, they mostly do; but some practices specifically exclude treatment for adult ADHD patients. Although it feels personal, it generally isn’t; the GP surgery is simply exercising its right to exclude some treatments. Many individuals in such circumstances elect to move surgery.
  • Stimulant Mediation for ADHD/ ADD is expensive, approximately £50 – £90+ monthly.
  • The cost of a private ADHD assessment will vary depending on the specialist and location and range from £600 to £1,200.

Conclusion

Understanding the referral process for ADHD in the UK is helpful for those who suspect they may have the condition, or someone they know might have the condition. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with ADHD.

 

Dr. Simon Kelly

Author: Dr. Simon Kelly

Dr Simon Kelly is a highly qualified and respected Consultant Psychiatrist. He was appointed as a Consultant in the NHS in Southampton in 1999. He completed his medical training qualifying as a Doctor at Charing Cross and Westminster Medical School, which is now part of the Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London in 1991. He obtained his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in 1991. He holds a Masters degree (MSc) in the Psychiatric Research of Depressive Disorder from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), University of London; when he trained in Psychiatry at the Maudsley Hospital and IoPPN. Dr Kelly held, Consultant Psychiatric roles in a busy urban settings in Southampton and established a community base as well. He has been a Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych), since 1996, and was elected as a Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (FRCPsych.) in 2018. He provides specialised Psychiatric care for individuals seeking help to improve their mental health. Together, we can work towards improving your mental health and overall quality of life.