Guides, in plain English

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a difference in how the brain manages attention, activity and impulses. It isn't about laziness or not trying hard enough.

The two main groups of signs

• Attention: drifting off, losing things, forgetting plans, finding it hard to start or finish tasks.
• Activity and impulsivity: restlessness (often an inner feeling in adults), talking a lot, interrupting, acting quickly.

People can have mostly one group, mostly the other, or a mix (called "combined").

Good to know

• ADHD starts in childhood, even if it's only noticed later.
• Many adults — especially women and girls — are diagnosed later because their signs are quieter.
• ADHD often comes alongside other things like anxiety, low mood, autism or dyslexia.
• It brings strengths too: creativity, energy, and great focus on things you love.

If you live in England and are registered with a GP, you have a legal right to choose which NHS-funded provider you're referred to for many specialist services — including ADHD assessment. It's still the NHS, and it's free.

How it usually works

1. Book a GP appointment. Explain your concerns and bring your screening results.
2. Ask for a referral for an ADHD assessment and say you'd like to use Right to Choose.
3. Pick a provider that has an NHS contract for adult or child ADHD assessments. Check their website for current waiting times.
4. The GP sends the referral. The provider then contacts you with forms and next steps.

Tips

• Some GP practices may ask you to fill in a screening form first — the adult screener on this site covers the same questions.
• If medication is started, ask early whether your GP will agree to "shared care" later.
• Right to Choose works differently in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland — ask your GP about local options there.

These won't replace proper support, but lots of people find them helpful — with or without a diagnosis.

Getting things done

• Make it visible: whiteboards, sticky notes and phone widgets beat lists hidden in apps.
• Shrink the first step: "open the laptop" instead of "write the report".
• Use timers: 15–25 minutes of work, then a short break.
• Body doubling: working next to someone (even on a video call) can make starting easier.

Looking after yourself

• Sleep: a regular wind-down routine and fewer screens before bed.
• Movement: even a short walk can help focus and mood.
• Home spots: one fixed place for keys, wallet and phone.
• Be kind to yourself: struggling isn't a character flaw.

At work or school

• You can ask for reasonable adjustments, like written instructions, quieter spaces or flexible deadlines.
• Parents can talk to the school SENCo about support, with or without a diagnosis.

Medication is one option among several — alongside support, therapy, coaching and adjustments. Whether it's right for you is a decision for you and your specialist.

The main types

• Stimulants (such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine) are usually tried first.
• Non-stimulants (such as atomoxetine) are an option if stimulants don't suit you.

What to expect

• Doses start low and go up slowly, with regular check-ins.
• Blood pressure, pulse and weight are checked before starting, after dose changes, and then regularly.
• Common side effects include poor sleep, less appetite and feeling on edge. Tell your prescriber about anything that bothers you.
• Medication won't usually be started while someone is in a mental health crisis — safety comes first.

Never start, stop or change ADHD medication without talking to your prescriber.