For decades, I have struggled with the symptoms of ADHD. Not having ‘typical’ symptoms such as hyperactivity as a child and doing well academically, my symptoms were cast off as depression or anxiety. It is only the last few years I come to realise I fit the criteria for ADHD, with GPs agreeing with my self diagnosis. However, seeking a diagnosis in Scotland has proven nearly impossible. The waiting times for getting diagnosed with ADHD/AuDHD in Scotland are staggeringly long, often stretching up to a decade. Like me, many individuals find their symptoms growing increasingly difficult to manage as they age, yet we are met with closed doors when reaching out for the help we desperately need.

In Scotland, General Practitioners (GPs) are unwilling to accept shared care agreements, which forces individuals into private healthcare options costing upwards of £1,000. This isn't a viable option for many, making the ADHD/AuDHD diagnosis and treatment process not only inaccessible but financially burdensome. Once diagnosed, the cost of medications and necessary titration appointments add to the financial strain, creating a frustrating barrier to necessary care.

Statistics reveal a pervasive issue in Scotland's healthcare system where many remain trapped in the limbo of being undiagnosed and without support. According to reports, thousands are left struggling with undiagnosed ADHD/AuDHD due to these systemic issues. Under the current system, Scottish residents are suffering in silence, their potential and well-being compromised by a failure to address the backlog and bureaucracy.

In England, patients have the ‘Right to choose’ option.  Right to Choose in England is a legal right allowing patients registered with an NHS GP to select an alternative, NHS-funded specialist provider or clinic for their first outpatient appointment if a referral is clinically necessary. It is heavily utilized for speeding up adult and child ADHD and autism neurodevelopmental assessments, though it applies across many other elective care pathways. 

We call on the Scottish government to take immediate action to streamline the ADHD/AuDHD diagnosis processes, reduce waiting times, and implement shared care agreements with GPs, and introduce Right to Choose here in Scotland. Funding must also be allocated to train more specialists and alleviate the backlog, ensuring that everyone has timely access to diagnosis and treatment without financial hardship.

Join me in standing up for those left behind. Together we can make a significant impact and demand the vital reform needed in Scotland's mental healthcare system. Please sign this petition and help us advocate for the right to timely diagnosis and treatment for ADHD/AuDHD in Scotland.