Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common but often misunderstood neurodevelopmental condition that affects adults as well as children. Many people live with symptoms for years without understanding their cause, struggling with focus, organisation, time management, or emotional regulation. For these individuals, receiving an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood can be life-changing.
A diagnosis provides not only clarity but also access to effective treatments and support that can dramatically improve daily life. If you have been wondering whether ADHD could explain the difficulties you have been experiencing, understanding the diagnostic process is the first and most important step.
ADHD is a long-term condition that affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels. While commonly associated with hyperactive behaviour in childhood, in adults ADHD often presents differently, with symptoms such as disorganisation, restlessness, low frustration tolerance, and chronic procrastination.
Many adults with ADHD are misdiagnosed with anxiety, depression, or simply labelled as disorganised or inconsistent. However, ADHD has its own distinct pattern of cognitive and behavioural traits that require a skilled assessment.
An accurate ADHD diagnosis can lead to significant improvements in work, relationships, and self-esteem. It also opens the door to effective evidence-based treatment options including medication, behavioural strategies, and psychological therapy.
ADHD symptoms in adults are generally grouped into two categories: inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. To meet diagnostic criteria, symptoms must have been present since childhood and continue to interfere with functioning in more than one area of life.
Symptoms of inattention in adults may include:
Symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity may include:
These behaviours may vary in intensity, but when persistent and disruptive, they may indicate ADHD. Many adults feel relief when these patterns are finally recognised and understood through a professional assessment.
A private ADHD assessment is often the fastest and most personalised way to get diagnosed. At Private Psychiatry, we specialise in adult ADHD diagnosis, offering expert-led assessments with appointments typically available within a few weeks.
Our assessment includes:
We offer both in-person and remote video assessments, with clear next steps and full aftercare for those who receive a diagnosis.
A full assessment for adult ADHD at Private Psychiatry generally involves a 60 minute consultation covering:
If a diagnosis is made, your psychiatrist will explain the findings and recommend a personalised treatment plan, which may include medication, therapy, or both.
If medication forms part of your treatment plan and a suitable, effective dose is identified, resulting in stable and well-managed symptoms, we will prepare a Shared Care Agreement (SCA).
A Shared Care Agreement is a formal document that outlines your treatment regimen and facilitates the safe and seamless transfer of prescribing responsibility to your NHS GP.
If your GP accepts the Shared Care Agreement:
We will send the Shared Care Agreement directly to your GP and ensure you are kept informed of their decision. If your GP is unable to assume prescribing responsibility, we will discuss alternative arrangements with you to ensure continuity of care.
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult often brings a sense of relief and self-understanding. Many patients say it feels like the missing piece of the puzzle, explaining years of difficulty with tasks that others found simple.
A diagnosis helps people:
At Private Psychiatry, we work with adults across all walks of life- from professionals and students to parents and entrepreneurs, helping them better understand their minds and unlock their full potential.
We are a leading provider of adult ADHD assessments, offering expert care from an experienced, UK-based team of psychiatrists. Our service is built around:
From first contact to follow-up, we aim to deliver an experience that is professional, compassionate, and clinically rigorous.
The consultation typically lasts 60 minutes and includes all necessary diagnostic components.
Yes. We offer secure, high-quality video assessments, meaning you can complete the full diagnostic process from home.
No. You can self-refer directly to our clinic for a private assessment.
You’ll receive a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include medication, CBT-based therapy, or ADHD coaching. We also offer follow-up appointments and ongoing support as needed.
The cost of a private ADHD assessment depends on the consultation format and any follow-up required. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit our Fees page.
