ADHD in adults (NHS)

Tier 1: Established: peer-reviewed research or government health authority
Publisher: National Health Service · Published: August 8, 2026 · Accessed: August 8, 2026

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Claims this source supports

• ADHD symptoms involve inattention (easily distracted or forgetful, hard to organise time, hard to follow instructions or finish tasks, losing things) and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity; most people with ADHD have symptoms of both types.
• Symptoms of ADHD usually start before the age of 12.
• ADHD is thought to be recognised less often in women than men; this may be because women with ADHD more commonly have inattentive symptoms, which can be harder to recognise than hyperactive symptoms.
• If ADHD symptoms are affecting studies, work or relationships, the NHS route starts with a GP appointment; the GP may refer for an assessment with a mental health professional specialising in ADHD.
• An adult ADHD assessment is with a specialist such as a psychiatrist, and covers symptom history (particularly whether symptoms started in childhood and how they affected school), work/education, family and friends, and medical history.
• ADHD assessment waiting times vary and can be several months or years; in England the Right to Choose scheme may give access to clinics with shorter waiting lists.
• ADHD can be managed with lifestyle changes, changes at work, and medicines; not everyone needs or wants medication.