NHS Assessment and Diagnosis
Getting an ADHD assessment through the NHS can be challenging, and the process has changed significantly in recent years. Here’s what you need to know about the current system and how to navigate it.
Waiting times
Demand for ADHD assessments has risen sharply, and more than half a million people in England are currently waiting for NHS assessment. Wait times range from several months to several years depending on the region you live in.
Using your Right to Choose
If you live in England, the Right to Choose scheme lets you select who you go to for your ADHD assessment. Your GP can refer you to an approved specialist, such as Psychiatry UK or ADHD 360, who may have shorter waiting times than local NHS services.
Private Assessment and Diagnosis
If NHS waiting times are too long or Right to Choose isn’t available to you, you may decide to pay for a private ADHD assessment. The cost of private assessments vary, so shop around until you find a provider you’re comfortable with.
While private assessment can be a lot faster, it’s important to consider the ongoing costs of follow-up appointments and treatment, such as medication or therapy.
Your assessment will be with a specialist psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse qualified to diagnose ADHD. It may take place in person or on a video call and usually lasts between 45 and 90 minutes.
During the appointment you’ll be asked about your mental health, family history and ADHD traits such as inattention or hyperactivity. You’ll need to give examples from both childhood and adulthood to illustrate these traits, so you might find it helpful to bring notes.
Option 1 | NHS Assessment
Option 2 | Private Assessment
Once you have an ADHD diagnosis you’ll be given a treatment plan, which may include medication, therapy (such as cognitive behavioural therapy, or CBT) or both.
If you decide to opt for medication, your GP will usually collaborate with the specialist who diagnosed you to set up a shared care agreement, so they can keep a close eye on your progress.
In some areas of the UK, GPs won’t take on shared care from external providers. If this is the case, you’ll need to rejoin the NHS waiting list for your medication to be reviewed – or, if you paid for a private assessment, continue to pay for appointments and medication.
Life after ADHD diagnosis
Many adults find getting an ADHD diagnosis comes as a huge relief. It can feel validating to know the reason they’ve struggled in life, or felt different, and often signifies the start of a journey to self-compassion and understanding. Others say diagnosis uncovered difficult emotions, such as frustration and grief for opportunities they’ve missed.
If you’re recently diagnosed and want to share your experience or get support from likeminded adults with ADHD, sign up to our newsletter and join one of our monthly meetings. We’d love to have you.