ADHD Testing for Adults: What to Expect and How to Start
You’ve read the symptoms. You’ve related to the reels.
Now you’re wondering: Could I really have ADHD?
And more importantly: How do I find out — officially?
Here’s what ADHD testing looks like for adults, what you’ll need, and how to advocate for yourself (whether you go NHS or private).
🩺 What Is an ADHD Assessment?
An ADHD assessment is a comprehensive evaluation done by a clinician (often a psychiatrist, sometimes a psychologist or nurse specialist). It explores your:
Current symptoms
Developmental history (school, home, early behaviours)
Mental health + masking patterns
Functioning across different areas of life (work, home, relationships)
It’s not just ticking a box on a quiz — it’s a full picture of how your brain has been functioning over time.
🧪 ADHD Testing: What’s Involved?
Here’s what you’ll likely go through:
✅ Screening Questionnaire
Usually something like the ASRS or DIVA — covering focus, impulsivity, emotional regulation, and more.
✅ Clinical Interview
A 45–90 minute conversation exploring:
How symptoms show up day-to-day
Childhood signs
How you’ve adapted, masked, or struggled
Emotional health (including anxiety, depression)
✅ Optional Input from Others
Some services ask for:
School reports (if available)
Input from someone who knew you as a child
Or questionnaires for a partner/family member
🇬🇧 ADHD Testing in the UK: Your Options
1. NHS (Free, but Waitlisted)
Go to your GP
Share a list of symptoms + how they affect you
Ask to be referred to an ADHD service or right-to-choose provider
Wait times vary (6 months to 3+ years)
2. Private Assessment (Faster, Costs £300–£900)
Many services offer direct booking
Can be online or in-person
Diagnosis usually includes a written report + optional treatment plan
💡 Some offer titration & follow-up, others don’t — always check!
💬 What to Say to Your GP
“I’ve been experiencing long-standing attention, focus, and executive functioning difficulties. I’ve read about ADHD and a lot of the symptoms match what I’ve been going through. Could I be referred for an ADHD assessment?”
Bring notes if needed. You’re allowed to self-advocate.
🧠 What ADHD Looks Like in Adults
If you’re wondering if your symptoms “count,” here are some lived realities:
Chronic lateness or poor time awareness
Constantly forgetting things, even important ones
Trouble finishing what you start
Emotional sensitivity or overreactions
Trouble managing money, sleep, or clutter
Guilt. So much guilt.
✨ What Happens After Diagnosis?
You may be offered medication (NHS or private route)
You might explore therapy, coaching, or routine tools
You’ll likely feel a weird mix of grief, relief, and self-compassion
You’ll learn how to work with your brain — not against it
And most of all? You’ll stop calling yourself lazy.
💬 Final Thought
Getting tested for ADHD as an adult isn’t about slapping on a label.
It’s about understanding how your brain works — and getting the tools to support it.
If you’ve been wondering if it’s time... it probably is.
Focus, gently. 🌿
