What to Know About an ADHD Consultation

It is a structured clinical assessment rather than a single test. The clinician may use interviews and questionnaires, and may request information from someone who knows you well when appropriate and with your agreement.

The clinician will ask when difficulties began, whether they occur in more than one setting, and how they affect study, work, relationships, organisation, driving, or household tasks. ADHD can present with persistent inattention, restlessness, or impulsive behaviour, but the pattern differs between people.

Sleep problems, anxiety, low mood, learning differences, substance use, medication effects, and some physical health conditions can resemble or add to these difficulties. Reviewing them helps the clinician understand the whole picture and decide whether further assessment is useful.

Bring a list of current medicines and supplements, relevant medical or mental health records, and examples of problems you want help with. Old school reports or observations from a parent, partner, or colleague may help show whether the pattern has been longstanding, but tell the clinic if these are unavailable or unsafe to obtain.

Write down how sleep, caffeine, alcohol, and other substances affect you. After the assessment, the plan may include practical adjustments, psychological support, medication discussion, treatment of another condition, or gathering more information before reaching a conclusion.

Arrange prompt clinical support if attention or impulsivity is causing unsafe driving, serious mistakes, escalating substance use, or an inability to manage essential daily needs. Seek emergency help immediately if you may harm yourself or someone else, feel unable to stay safe, or are experiencing severe agitation, confusion, or a sudden major change in behaviour.

You could ask which features support or argue against ADHD, what other explanations are being considered, whether additional records or questionnaires are needed, and when you will receive an outcome. If treatment is discussed, ask what each option targets, how benefit and side effects will be monitored, and who will provide follow-up care.