Getting An ADHD Diagnosis
A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re wondering whether you might have ADHD — or if someone’s gently suggested it — you’re not alone. Many adults are only now recognising lifelong patterns that suddenly make sense.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can feel confusing or overwhelming, so I’ve broken it down into simple, manageable steps.
🧠 First — What Is ADHD, Really?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects focus, memory, emotional regulation, and motivation. It doesn’t always look like hyperactivity — especially in women and non-binary people. Often, it feels more like:
• Forgetting simple tasks
• Struggling to start things
• Feeling overwhelmed by everyday life
• Being told you’re disorganised or too sensitive
If this sounds familiar, it might be worth exploring further.
📝 Step-by-Step: How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in the UK (for Adults)
1. Start with your GP
Book an appointment with your GP and explain your concerns. You might say:
“I’ve been having ongoing difficulties with focus, organisation, and memory, and I’d like to explore whether ADHD could be the cause.”
To support your request, you can bring examples, or complete a self-assessment like the ASRS v1.1 ADHD Screener (freely available online).
2. Ask for a Referral – and Mention Right to Choose (England only)
Your GP may suggest referring you for an ADHD assessment through local NHS services — but the waiting lists are extremely long, often 1–3 years or more, depending on where you live.
If you’re in England, you don’t have to wait.
You have the legal right to ask for an assessment under NHS Right to Choose — which lets you access faster assessments with approved external providers, for free, through the NHS.
You can say:
“I’d like to be referred under the NHS Right to Choose scheme to a provider such as Psychiatry UK or ADHD 360.”
💡 To qualify for Right to Choose, you must:
• Be registered with a GP in England
• Be referred by your GP (they need to send the referral to the provider)
• Choose a provider with a contract to deliver NHS services
📝 Common providers:
• Psychiatry UK (well known and widely accepted)
• ADHD 360
• Clinical Partners (availability varies by location)
3. Private assessments (if you can afford it)
If you want to skip the wait entirely and can afford it, you can book a private ADHD assessment. These usually cost between £500–£1,200.
When choosing a private provider, make sure they:
• Are led by a psychiatrist registered with the GMC
• Follow NICE guidelines
• Provide a written diagnostic report (needed for medication or support)
• Offer a shared care agreement if you want NHS prescriptions later
4. The assessment process
Whether NHS or private, an adult ADHD assessment usually includes:
• A detailed discussion about your symptoms
• Your developmental and mental health history
• How ADHD impacts your daily life
• Screening for other conditions (e.g. anxiety, autism, depression)
• Sometimes input from a partner, family member, or childhood school reports
5. Diagnosis & next steps
If you’re diagnosed with ADHD, your clinician will talk through your next steps, which might include:
• Medication (e.g. stimulants like Elvanse or non-stimulants like atomoxetine)
• Coaching or therapy
• Workplace or study support
• Lifestyle tools or accommodations
💛 A Note on Self-Diagnosis
If you’re still waiting or can’t access a formal assessment right now, your experience is still valid.
Many people begin to understand their ADHD through self-reflection, reading, or talking to others with lived experience. You’re allowed to explore what works for your brain, even without a diagnosis.
Final Thoughts
Getting an ADHD diagnosis doesn’t have to feel confusing or intimidating. Whether you go through the NHS, Right to Choose, or a private provider, the most important thing is to take the first step — and know that support is available.
You deserve to feel understood, and you don’t have to figure this out on your own.
Lisa x
ADHD Clear Mind Coaching