ADHD Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
ADHD raises a lot of questions especially when you’re trying to understand symptoms, assessment routes and support options. We’ve created this page to answer the most common questions we hear from adults, parents and young people. If you want clarity before you decide to book an assessment, this is a helpful place to start.
ADHD symptoms in children can look different from those in adults. Some common signs include:
• Struggling to sit still or stay focused in class.
• Forgetting instructions or losing school items frequently.
• Difficulty completing homework without constant reminders.
• Emotional outbursts or frustration when tasks feel “too hard.”
• Daydreaming, zoning out, or appearing not to listen.
• Trouble getting ready for school or following routines.
It’s important to note that these behaviours are not due to “bad behaviour” or poor parenting. ADHD reflects differences in how a child’s brain develops and processes attention and self-regulation. An early assessment can provide clarity and help families, teachers, and children find effective strategies. Find our more about our ADHD Assessments for children here
Adults with ADHD often experience difficulties with executive functioning - the mental skills that help us plan, organise, start tasks, remember important information, manage time, and regulate emotions.
This can make everyday activities feel more challenging. For example, you might:
• Know what needs to be done but feel unable to start.
• Struggle to break tasks into smaller steps.
• Experience forgetfulness, missed deadlines, or misplaced items.
• Feel mentally “cluttered” or overwhelmed.
• Have difficulty managing emotions or controlling impulsive reactions.
These challenges are sometimes mistaken for laziness, carelessness or defiance. In reality, they reflect meaningful differences in how adults with ADHD process information and navigate daily life. With the right strategies and support, many people with ADHD can harness their strengths and thrive.
Yes. Research shows that ADHD can present differently depending on gender.
• Boys are often more likely to show hyperactive and impulsive behaviours, such as fidgeting, running around, or shouting.
• Girls may present more with inattentive symptoms, like struggling to concentrate, daydreaming or appearing “quietly distracted.”
As inattentive symptoms are often considered less disruptive, ADHD in girls is sometimes overlooked or misdiagnosed as anxiety or low self-esteem. A professional ADHD assessment can help ensure that these signs are properly understood.
Yes. ADHD is often misdiagnosed as anxiety or depression, especially in adults. While ADHD itself is not caused by anxiety or depression, the daily challenges of living with ADHD can contribute to low mood and anxiety symptoms. When ADHD goes unrecognised, people often grow up believing something is wrong with them. In reality, the challenges usually come from environments that don’t meet their needs - not from who they are.
A specialist ADHD assessment can help to build a new understanding of a person's wider emotional experience, including how past struggles may connect to ADHD and how strengths can be supported moving forward.
Yes. Our ADHD assessments are carried out by HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologists who are trained in evidence-based diagnostic tools.
If a diagnosis is given, you will receive:
• A detailed diagnostic report
• Practical recommendations for school, university, or the workplace
• A summary letter that can be shared with your GP or employer if needed
This report can also be used to support applications for Reasonable Adjustments, Disabled Students Allowance (DSA), or workplace accommodations.
NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) sets the national standards for assessment, diagnosis and treatment in the UK. Following NICE guidelines means your assessment is completed using recognised, evidence-based tools and procedures - which helps ensure your outcome is trusted by GPs, schools and other professionals.
Our ADHD assessment process has two main stages:
Step 1: Pre-Assessment Consultation
• Screening questionnaires
• A 60-minute consultation with a psychologist
• Initial recommendations for next steps
• A letter for private insurers (if applicable)
Step 2: Full ADHD Assessment
• Structured diagnostic interview (DIVA-5) lasting 90–120 minutes
• Feedback session (50 minutes) to discuss results and recommendations
• Outcome letter and comprehensive final report
This process ensures that you receive a thorough and accurate understanding of whether ADHD is present, along with clear guidance on next steps.
As Clinical Psychologists, we do not prescribe ADHD medication directly. However, we collaborate with trusted psychiatrists who can prescribe medication if appropriate.
Typically, a psychiatrist will require a comprehensive ADHD assessment report before considering medication options. Some people also benefit from non-medication approaches, such as therapy, coaching, or practical strategies for managing attention and organisation.
Yes. While medication can be very effective for many people with ADHD, there are also a range of non-medication strategies that can help both adults and children, such as:
Strengths-based approaches that build self-advocacy and practical coping skills
Adapting environments (e.g. school, workplace) through reasonable adjustments and greater flexibility
Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for ADHD
ADHD coaching to support executive functioning skills like planning, organisation, and time management
Parent support programmes to help families understand and respond to ADHD-related challenges
Mindfulness and attention training to build focus and emotional regulation
Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, consistent sleep routines, and balanced nutrition
The most effective support usually combines several strategies, tailored to the needs of each individual.
Yes, schools are expected to provide support for children with ADHD. This can include:
• Classroom accommodations (e.g. sitting near the front, using visual aids, extra time for tasks)
• Special Educational Needs (SEN) support
• Individual Education Plans (IEPs) or Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) where needed
Having a formal ADHD assessment report can make it much easier to access this support, as it provides evidence of your child’s needs.
Considering an assessment?
Explore our adult ADHD assessments or child ADHD assessments pages to learn more about what’s involved.