ADHD assessment for adults: what to expect

The clinician usually asks about attention, organisation, restlessness and impulsive behaviour, including whether these patterns were present in childhood and how they affect work, study, relationships or home life. Questionnaires can support the discussion, but a score alone does not establish a diagnosis.

ADHD is diagnosed from a consistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity that began earlier in life, appears across more than one setting, and causes meaningful difficulty. An assessor considers examples rather than relying only on labels such as distracted or disorganised.

Sleep problems, anxiety, depression, substance use, learning differences, autism, medication effects and some physical health conditions can resemble or coexist with ADHD. Reviewing these possibilities helps the clinician explain the full picture and recommend suitable support, whether or not ADHD is diagnosed.

Write down specific recent examples, such as missing deadlines, losing essential items, interrupting conversations or struggling to finish routine tasks. Note where each problem occurs and what helps. Bring a list of medicines and supplements, relevant medical or mental health records, and any previous assessment reports.

If available, childhood school reports or comments from someone who knew you when you were young can help clarify early patterns. A partner, relative or close friend may also describe current behaviour, with your permission. Do not stop prescribed medicine before the visit unless the prescribing clinician tells you to.

Arrange a routine appointment if concentration, organisation, restlessness or impulsive decisions are repeatedly disrupting work, study, finances, driving, relationships or self-care. A primary care clinician can review immediate concerns and explain the local route to a specialist assessment.

Seek urgent help now if you may harm yourself or someone else, cannot keep yourself safe, are severely agitated or confused, or are experiencing hallucinations. Contact local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department; if possible, ask a trusted person to stay with you.

You could ask who will perform the assessment, what records or observer information would be useful, and how coexisting sleep or mood symptoms will be evaluated. It is also reasonable to ask when you will receive an explanation of the outcome and what support may be offered for the difficulties identified.