How Do I Get Assessed for ADHD as an Adult?

Many adults reach a point where they start wondering whether ADHD might explain some of the challenges they’ve experienced throughout their lives. Difficulties with attention, organisation, time management, impulsivity, or feeling constantly overwhelmed are common reasons people start exploring an assessment.

If you’re considering an ADHD assessment, understanding the process can help make the next steps feel clearer.

Step 1: Book an Appointment with Your GP

For many adults in Australia, the first step is speaking with a GP.

During the appointment, your GP may:

• Ask about your symptoms and how they affect your work, study, relationships, or daily life
• Discuss your medical and mental health history
• Consider whether other health conditions may be contributing to your concerns
• Ask you to complete an ADHD screening questionnaire
• Provide a referral to a psychologist and/or psychiatrist for further assessment

If you would like to explore medication as part of your treatment options, a psychiatrist is generally required.

Step 2: Attend an ADHD Assessment

An ADHD assessment is a comprehensive evaluation that looks at whether ADHD may be contributing to the difficulties you are experiencing.

The assessment process is designed to build a clear picture of your symptoms, experiences, and functioning across different areas of life.

Depending on the clinician and assessment service, the process may include:

• A detailed clinical interview
• Questions about your childhood and developmental history
• Discussion of current symptoms and their impact on daily life
• Review of family, medical, and mental health history
• Standardised questionnaires and rating scales
• Information from partners, family members, or other relevant supports where appropriate

The aim is not only to assess for ADHD, but also to consider other factors that may contribute to similar symptoms.

Why Does the Assessment Look at Childhood?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means symptoms typically begin during childhood.

As part of the assessment, you may be asked about:

• School experiences
• Childhood behaviour
• Academic challenges
• Family observations
• Previous reports or assessments

Many adults are surprised by how much attention is given to their earlier years. This information helps clinicians understand whether ADHD symptoms have been present across the lifespan.

What Happens After the Assessment?

Once all information has been gathered, the clinician reviews the results to determine whether the symptoms are consistent with ADHD. If ADHD is diagnosed, recommendations may be provided regarding treatment, supports, workplace or study accommodations, and other strategies that may be helpful.

Many adults seek an assessment after years of wondering why certain aspects of life seem more difficult than they appear to be for others. For some, the process provides answers they have been searching for for a long time.

If you’re considering an ADHD assessment, our team can help you understand the process and determine the most appropriate next steps.