How to get an ADHD diagnosis in the UK

Step 1 — Take a screening assessment

Before approaching your GP, it helps to have something concrete to show them. A completed screening assessment gives your GP a clear picture of your symptoms and their severity, and demonstrates that you've done your research rather than self-diagnosing based on social media.

Our free screening quiz produces a printable results page you can bring to your appointment. Take it honestly and bring the results.

Step 2 — Prepare for your GP appointment

GP appointments are typically 10 minutes. Going prepared makes a significant difference to whether you leave with a referral. Bring:

• Your screening results — print them or show them on your phone
• Specific examples — write down 5–10 concrete examples of how ADHD traits affect your daily life. "I struggle to concentrate" is vague; "I have been late to work 3 times this month because I cannot start getting ready on time" is specific
• Evidence of childhood difficulties — ADHD must have been present since childhood. Old school reports, parent recollections, or your own memories of struggles as a child all count
• Evidence of impairment across settings — ADHD must affect multiple areas of life (work, home, relationships)

Step 3 — Understanding your NHS options

Once your GP agrees to refer you, there are two main NHS pathways:

Standard NHS referral

Your GP refers you to your local adult ADHD service (often part of a community mental health team). Waiting times vary enormously — from a few months to several years depending on your area. Some areas have no adult ADHD service at all and refer to general psychiatry.

Right to Choose (England only)

If you have been waiting more than 18 weeks for your first appointment after a GP referral, you are legally entitled under NHS England policy to choose an alternative NHS-commissioned provider. This is called Right to Choose.

Participating providers include ADHD UK, Psychiatry UK, Healios, and others. Your GP must make the referral — they cannot refuse a valid Right to Choose request. You can find a list of participating providers at ADHD UK.

Step 4 — Private assessment (if you choose not to wait)

Private ADHD assessments are available throughout the UK. They typically cost £600–1,500 and involve:

• A clinical interview with a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (1–3 hours)
• Completion of rating scales before the appointment
• Sometimes a collateral history from a parent or partner
• A written report summarising findings and recommendations

A private diagnosis is legally valid and accepted by most NHS services for medication management (though some local NHS trusts have policies around this — your GP can clarify).

What happens during an ADHD assessment

A formal adult ADHD assessment typically involves:

1. A clinical interview — covering your developmental history (how you were as a child), your current symptoms, and how they affect different areas of your life
2. Rating scales — you may be asked to complete questionnaires before or during the appointment
3. Collateral history — many assessors ask for a questionnaire completed by a parent, sibling, or partner who knew you as a child
4. Sometimes cognitive testing — though this isn't standard for all providers

At the end, the assessor will share their findings and, if ADHD is diagnosed, discuss treatment options.

After diagnosis — what happens next

An ADHD diagnosis opens up several avenues of support:

• Medication — stimulant medications (methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine) and non-stimulants (atomoxetine) are NICE-approved treatments for adult ADHD and can be significantly effective
• ADHD coaching — working with a coach specialised in ADHD on practical strategies for daily life
• Workplace adjustments — ADHD is a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010, meaning you can request reasonable adjustments from your employer
• Therapy — CBT adapted for ADHD, or EMDR if trauma is also present

What if my GP won't refer me?

GPs cannot lawfully refuse to make a Right to Choose referral if you've been waiting over 18 weeks. If your GP declines an initial referral:

• Ask them to document the reasons for refusal in writing
• Request to see a different GP at the same practice
• Complain to the practice manager if refused unreasonably
• Consider registering with a different practice
• Consider a private assessment as an alternative route