How ADHD can show up in adults
Adult ADHD often looks very different from childhood ADHD. Hyperactivity may reduce outwardly, but is frequently replaced by internal restlessness and mental overactivity. As responsibilities increase, difficulties with organisation, time management and emotional regulation often become more pronounced.
- Poor concentration and distractibility
- Forgetfulness and misplacing items
- Difficulty with organisation and prioritising
- Struggling to meet deadlines
- Starting tasks but finding them hard to finish
- Feeling mentally overloaded or exhausted
- Restlessness or feeling constantly on edge
- Emotional reactivity or mood swings
- Difficulty coping with stress
- Impulsive decisions or risk-taking
Many adults, particularly women and high achievers, cope by masking: over-preparing, perfectionism or overworking to avoid mistakes. This often leads to exhaustion, anxiety or burnout, and is a common reason ADHD is recognised later in life.
How the assessment works
Every adult pathway begins with screening to help identify whether a full diagnostic assessment is appropriate.
Initial contact with our team
Your journey begins with a conversation with our friendly team. We discuss your concerns, explain the screening process, answer questions and guide you through the next steps.
Screening forms
We email you forms to complete. These help us understand your or your child's experiences.
- Early Developmental history, ideally completed by your parents
- Initial information form
- Adult ADHD Interview
- Two supporting statements, completed by people who know you well
Initial Screening Consultation
You attend a structured interview with one of our clinicians. A calm, supportive conversation. Alongside it we use evidence-based tools suited to age and presentation.
Multidisciplinary team (MDT) review
Your assessment is reviewed by our multidisciplinary team, which includes psychiatrists, psychologists and specialist clinicians. This ensures every assessment is NICE-compliant, thorough and clinically safe.
Screening Assessment outcome & detailed report
You receive a comprehensive clinical report within 21 working days, including the conclusion, a clear explanation of the evidence, tailored recommendations for school, work and home, and signposting to further support. If criteria are not met, we still provide clear guidance and next steps. Where the screening findings indicate that a full ADHD or autism diagnostic assessment is appropriate, we will explain the next stage and arrange a further appointment.
After your diagnosis
If ADHD is diagnosed, we can offer a medication prescribing plan in line with NICE NG87 guidelines, together with coaching and psychoeducation to help you build strategies that genuinely work for you.
Fees
Cancellations within 7 working days, or non-attendance, are charged in full. Rescheduling within 4 weeks of your appointment incurs a £150 fee. Changes to booked consultation dates outside four weeks incur a £55 administration fee.
We offer a free initial telephone chat to help you understand your options and choose the most suitable pathway.
Why a diagnosis matters
Receiving a diagnosis is not simply a label, it is a framework for understanding yourself. It can:
- Provide long-overdue clarity and self-understanding
- Explain lifelong patterns in learning, behaviour or emotional responses
- Unlock tailored support, coaching and practical strategies
- Improve wellbeing, confidence and day-to-day functioning
- Help schools, employers or families support you better
- Open access to treatment or accommodations where needed