ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects focus, attention, impulse control, emotional regulation and Executive Function (planning, memory and organisation). It is not a behavioural problem or a result of bad parenting, it is how a person’s brain is wired.

For more info, see What is ADHD in our resources

Signs vary, but common ones include:

• Trouble focusing, especially on things that feel boring or repetitive

• Forgetfulness and disorganisation

• Emotional overwhelm or mood swings

• Impulsivity or interrupting

• Restlessness or fidgeting

• Difficulty starting and/or following through on tasks

Some people may appear very energetic (hyperactive), while others are more internally distracted (inattentive type).

You might find our Resources page helpful to look through:

The assessment process usually involves:

• Questionnaires for you and possibly others who know you well (e.g. teachers, partners)

• A clinical interview with a psychologist, psychiatrist or specialist nurse

• A review of medical history, school reports or work history

• Sometimes, additional cognitive or behavioural observations

The goal is to understand how your brain works and whether the challenges you face fit the criteria for ADHD.

You can learn more on our What to Expect During an ADHD Assessment page.

In an assessment, you are likely to be asked to complete a ‘Strengths and Difficulties’ questionnaire, the Conner’s rating scale for children.

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For adults, you are likely to be asked to complete the Adult ‘ADHD Self-Report Scale’ (ASRS).

Waiting times vary. In the UK:

• NHS assessments may take 6 months to 2+ years, depending on your area

• Private assessments are quicker (typically a few weeks) but can cost £500–£2000+

Our Waiting Room is here to support you during this waiting period.

Yes!

ADHD is often diagnosed later in life.

Many people (especially women and girls) are misdiagnosed or overlooked until adulthood. Life transitions such as university, parenthood or menopause can often trigger a recognition of symptoms.

See more in our resource ADHD Across The Lifespan

Absolutely.

Girls and women are often under-diagnosed because their symptoms may be less obvious (e.g. daydreaming, anxiety, perfectionism). They may also mask symptoms by working harder to ‘blend in,’ which can lead to exhaustion, burnout and low self-esteem.

You can learn more in The Waiting Room

Yes.

Many people with ADHD develop coping strategies or succeed in areas of strong interest. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t struggling. High-achieving people can still experience emotional distress, exhaustion or hidden difficulties with organisation and time management.

You can learn more in The Waiting Room

ADHD can often occur alongside other neurodevelopmental conditions like:

• Autism

• Dyslexia

• Dyspraxia (DCD)

• Tourette’s Syndrome

• Anxiety, depression or sensory processing differences

A thorough assessment should look at the full picture, not just ADHD in isolation.

Read more about co-occuring conditions here

Here’s a quick checklist:

• A list of your concerns or symptoms

• Any school reports or academic history

• Childhood behaviour observations (from parents/carers if possible)

• Past assessments (e.g. for autism, dyslexia, etc.)

• Questionnaires (if given before the appointment)

• Medication or health history

See more in The Waiting Room

Sometimes yes, especially if your symptoms are clear.

Other times, the clinician may need extra information or follow-up appointments to confirm the diagnosis. This does not mean that you have done anything wrong, just that they want to be thorough and accurate.

You can learn more in The Waiting Room

Yes, as long as ADHD symptoms are present independently and have been there since childhood. Mental health conditions can mimic or mask ADHD, so clinicians take care to distinguish between them. You may be diagnosed with both.

See our Resource: ADHD and Mental Health

If diagnosed, you will usually receive:

• A written diagnostic report

• Recommendations for support, which might include:

  • Medication

  • Therapy or coaching

  • Adjustments at school, work and/or home

You may be referred for a medication trial or signposted to additional services. If ADHD isn’t diagnosed, the clinician should explain why and discuss next steps.

More information about life after diagnosis available in The Waiting Room

Not always.

If medication is recommended, you may be invited for a titration process which is a series of appointments to find the right medication and dose. This can take weeks or months. Some people choose not to take medication and instead focus on therapy or coaching.

You can learn more in The Waiting Room

No, it is one of several tools. Many people also benefit from:

• CBT or ADHD-focused therapy

• Coaching for organisation and planning

• Occupational therapy

• Parent training programmes (for children)

• Lifestyle changes (exercise, sleep, structure)

Medication can help improve focus but it doesn’t teach skills - that’s where strategies and support come in.

You can learn more in The Waiting Room

ADHD is recognised as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 in the UK if it has a significant impact on day-to-day functioning. This means that you may be entitled to reasonable adjustments at work or at school such as flexible deadlines, extra time or assistive tools.

You can learn more in The Waiting Room

Yes, and it is often helpful. Sharing your diagnosis (if you feel safe to do so) can lead to better understanding and adjustments. You have a legal right to reasonable accommodations if ADHD affects your ability to work or study.

You can learn more in The Waiting Room

Use this time to:

• Learn more about ADHD and how it affects you

• Try tools like planners, reminders or visual schedules

• Join a support group (online or in person)

• Be kind to yourself - your brain works differently, not wrongly

Visit resources like The Waiting Room for resources, strategies and support

ADHD itself doesn’t ‘get worse’, but life demands change and that can make symptoms harder to manage. Many people feel more overwhelmed during big transitions (e.g. starting university, becoming a parent, menopause, retirement).

With the right tools, support and self-understanding, things can improve.

More information in ADHD Across The Lifespan

If you feel your assessment wasn’t thorough or doesn’t reflect your experience, you can:

• Request a second opinion

• Ask for a copy of your report

• Seek an independent or private assessment

• Advocate for a more holistic look at your needs

You are allowed to ask questions and keep exploring support, whether or not you receive a diagnosis.

You can learn more in The Waiting Room

Absolutely.

ADHD is not a personal failure, it is a different brain style.

With awareness, the right support and practical tools, people with ADHD can thrive in school, careers, relationships and creativity.

Many people describe their diagnosis as life-changing - not because it solves everything, but because it helps everything finally make sense.

You can learn more in The Waiting Room