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How Can I Talk to My Doctor About Adult ADHD? 

PostedOctober 15, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

If you suspect you may have adult ADHD, it’s important to talk to your doctor about a potential adult ADHD diagnosis. Speaking with a doctor about ADHD can feel daunting, but being open about your symptoms is the first step towards understanding your condition and finding the right treatment. Start by explaining the challenges you’ve been facing, whether it’s trouble concentrating, forgetfulness, or impulsivity. 

During your consultation for ADHD, be clear about how these symptoms are affecting your daily life, work, or relationships. Your doctor will likely ask specific questions to get a better understanding of your situation. It’s essential to be as detailed as possible, as this will help your doctor make an informed diagnosis. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD

Common Symptoms to Discuss 

Here are some ADHD symptoms you may want to mention during your consultation: 

Inattention 

Difficulty staying focused on tasks or following through with projects can be a sign of adult ADHD. 

Impulsivity 

Impulsive decision-making or interruptions in conversations are often linked to ADHD in adults. 

Hyperactivity 

Feeling restless or having a constant need to stay active, even when the situation requires calmness, can also be an indicator. 

By sharing these symptoms with your doctor, you can start the process of getting an adult ADHD diagnosis. Your doctor will guide you through the next steps, whether that includes further assessments or treatment options. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD
Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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.