A guide to getting an ADHD assessment in the UK

Getting an ADHD assessment in the UK can be a lengthy process, but here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate it:

1. Speak to your GP

Your first step is to book an appointment with your GP (General Practitioner). Be prepared to explain:

• The symptoms you experience and how they impact your daily life.

• How long you've had these difficulties (ADHD is a lifelong condition, so evidence of childhood symptoms is often required).

• Any struggles with work, relationships, or day-to-day functioning.

• Any family history of ADHD or neurodivergence.

Tip: It can help to take notes, keep a symptom diary, or use a self-assessment tool like the ASRS (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale).

2. Ask for a referral to an ADHD specialist

ADHD assessments in the UK are usually conducted by a psychiatrist, sometimes in collaboration with other professionals (psychologists, mental health nurses, etc.). Your GP may:

• Refer you to an NHS adult ADHD service or a community mental health team (CMHT) if available in your area.

• Offer a referral via Right to Choose (RTC), which allows you to be assessed by an independent provider like Psychiatry-UK, funded by the NHS.

Note: Many GPs are unfamiliar with RTC, so you may need to mention the NHS Patient Choice Framework.

Below is a template letter you can use to request an ADHD referral from your GP. You can personalise it to suit your experiences.

3. Consider going private (If you want to speed up the process)

If NHS waiting times are too long (often 1–3 years), you can look for a private ADHD assessment. Costs typically range from £800–£2,000, and you may need to self-fund any ongoing treatment unless you can get a shared care agreement with your GP.

4. Prepare for the assessment

Once referred, you may be asked to:

• Fill out pre-assessment questionnaires (such as the DIVA-5 or ASRS).

• Provide school reports or input from a parent, caregiver, or someone who knew you as a child.

• Attend an in-depth interview with a specialist to discuss your symptoms across different life stages.

5. After the assessment

If diagnosed with ADHD, the clinician will discuss treatment options, which may include:

• Medication (e.g., stimulants like Elvanse or non-stimulants like Atomoxetine).

• Coaching and therapy (CBT, ADHD coaching, or support groups).

• Workplace or educational support (Access to Work, reasonable adjustments).

Final Tips:

✔ If your GP is hesitant, bring along NICE Guidelines (NG87), which state that ADHD assessment should be offered if symptoms cause significant impairment.
✔ If refused a referral, you can request a second opinion or use Right to Choose.
✔ Support groups like ADHD UK, AADD-UK, and local ADHD charities can help with advocacy and information.

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