How to get an ADHD diagnosis

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurobiological developmental condition that affects a person’s ability to focus, manage impulses, and regulate emotions. It’s often misunderstood, particularly in adults and females, which means many people are either misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all.

Many adults only recognise symptoms in themselves after a child in their family is diagnosed. But ADHD is fairly common, with one in twenty Australians having this condition. 

If you think you or your child may have ADHD, an important first step is to recognise the signs and understand what diagnosis and support can look like in Australia.

Signs of ADHD in children

Children with ADHD might show persistent difficulties with attention, self-control, or activity levels that are not typical for their age. These symptoms must be consistent, noticeable across multiple environments (such as home and school), and impair daily functioning.

Some of the more recognisable signs in children include:

• Difficulty staying focused on tasks or following instructions

• Seeming not to listen, even when spoken to directly

• Interrupting or talking over others

• Fidgeting, squirming, or struggling to stay seated

• Regularly losing school items or forgetting homework

Symptoms often appear before age 12, though they may be subtle in early years and become more apparent as academic and social demands increase.

What ADHD often looks like in adults

For adults, ADHD often shows up in more internalised ways. Hyperactivity may turn into restlessness or constant mental chatter, while inattention can manifest as chronic disorganisation, procrastination, or difficulty with focus and follow-through.

Adults with ADHD might experience:

• Trouble managing time, schedules, or responsibilities

• Frequently missing deadlines or appointments

• Difficulty sustaining attention in conversations or meetings

• Low frustration tolerance and emotional reactivity

• Ongoing issues with relationships or self-esteem

Adult ADHD remains significantly underdiagnosed in Australia and other parts of the globe, with many individuals going undetected until they reach crisis points.

Why ADHD is often missed in girls and women

ADHD has historically been under-recognised in girls and women. Diagnostic criteria were originally developed based on studies of young boys, which has led to decades of misdiagnosis or being overlooked entirely in females.

Girls are more likely to experience the inattentive form of ADHD, characterised by forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, and mental distraction rather than hyperactivity. They tend to be labelled as “daydreamers” or “sensitive” rather than recognised as having a neurological condition.

ADHD myths and facts

The following are some helpful ADHD myths and facts sourced from ADHD Australia.

How to get diagnosed with ADHD in Australia?

If you’re wondering how to get diagnosed with ADHD, the process begins with a conversation and a formal assessment. While it can be a lengthy journey, getting clarity can open the door to better understanding and support.

🟣 Step 1: Talk to your GP

Start by booking an appointment with your GP. They’ll ask about your symptoms or your child’s behaviour, medical history, and daily challenges. If ADHD seems likely, they’ll provide a referral for a specialist ADHD assessment.

Some GPs may also prepare a mental health care plan, which can give you access to Medicare rebates for sessions with a psychologist.

🟣 Step 2: Referral to a specialist

In Australia, several types of professionals can conduct ADHD assessments:

• Psychiatrists (for adults and children) can diagnose and prescribe medication

• Paediatricians focus on diagnosing ADHD in children and adolescents

• Clinical psychologists can diagnose ADHD using structured assessments and clinical interviews, although they cannot prescribe medication

If you’re unsure who can diagnose ADHD, your GP will guide you based on your situation. And yes, a psychologist can diagnose ADHD, provided they are trained in neurodevelopmental assessments.

What an ADHD assessment involves

The assessment process typically includes:

• A clinical interview covering developmental, academic, and family history

• Behavioural questionnaires or rating scales (filled out by parents, teachers, partners, or the individual)

• In some cases, cognitive or attention testing

• Consideration of other possible conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or learning difficulties

The process usually takes one to three sessions. Afterwards, you’ll receive a written report that outlines whether ADHD criteria are met and what supports or treatments are recommended.

Many clinics now offer online ADHD assessments, particularly for adults. This can reduce travel time, make scheduling more flexible, and allow people in rural or remote areas to access specialist care. If you’re not sure where to start, connecting with a GP or a clinician trained in ADHD assessment and support is a good first step.

The following resources could also help if you want an in-depth understanding of ADHD and ADHD diagnosis:

• Australian Evidence-Based Clinical Guideline for ADHD

• ADHD Guide by The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne

What support is available after diagnosis?

Receiving an ADHD diagnosis can bring enormous relief, but support is essential for long-term wellbeing. Treatment plans usually include a combination of strategies.

Ongoing support can include:

• Psychological therapy to address self-esteem, emotional regulation, and coping strategies

• ADHD coaching for adults, which focuses on routines, planning, and goal setting

• Medication, prescribed by a psychiatrist or paediatrician, to help manage core symptoms

• Occupational therapy for children to help them navigate school and daily routines

• Parent education programs to support behaviour strategies at home

Final thoughts

If you’ve made it this far, chances are you or someone you care about may be living with undiagnosed ADHD. Taking the step to seek answers is a meaningful start. ADHD is not a personal failing but a recognised condition that deserves understanding and support.

Getting a diagnosis is not about labels. It’s about clarity, access to the right tools, and a chance to move forward with confidence. With support, many people find that life becomes easier to manage and more fulfilling.