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How Is ADHD Diagnosed Medically? 

PostedOctober 13, 2025
UpdatedOctober 13, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

A medical diagnosis of ADHD involves a thorough clinical evaluation by a healthcare professional, typically a psychiatrist, psychologist, or GP. The process aims to assess a person’s symptoms, medical history, and how these symptoms affect their daily life. While ADHD is commonly diagnosed in childhood, many adults are also diagnosed later in life, often after years of struggling with undiagnosed symptoms. 

The diagnostic process for ADHD typically begins with a detailed interview, where the healthcare professional gathers information about the individual’s behaviour, childhood development, and any challenges they face in school, work, or relationships. The doctor may ask specific questions about inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, which are the core symptoms of ADHD. The professional will also rule out other possible causes for the symptoms, such as learning disabilities, anxiety, or depression. 

Take an ADHD test

Key Steps in the ADHD Diagnostic Process 

Here are the key steps in the ADHD diagnostic process:  

Comprehensive History  

A healthcare provider will review the individual’s medical, academic, and family history to understand the context of their symptoms. 

Standardised Rating Scales  

Tools like the Conners Rating Scale or ASRS (Adult Self-Report Scale) may be used to assess the severity of ADHD symptoms, comparing them to typical behaviours for the individual’s age. 

Rule-Out of Other Conditions  

Other potential causes for symptoms (e.g., anxiety or sleep disorders) will be considered to ensure an accurate diagnosis. 

In conclusion, a medical diagnosis of ADHD is essential for understanding the condition and accessing the appropriate treatment, whether it’s behavioural therapy, medication, or a combination of both. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Signs, Symptoms, and Self-identification of ADHD.  

Take an ADHD test
Avery Lombardi, MSc, author for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Avery Lombardi, MSc
Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.