ADHD DIAGNOSIS PATHWAY

How to Talk to Your GP About ADHD Concerns: A Practical Guide

Approaching your GP with concerns about ADHD can be a significant first step towards understanding your experiences and accessing the right support.

Preparing to Talk to Your GP About ADHD

If you suspect you might be experiencing symptoms of ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), taking the first step and booking a GP appointment can feel daunting. You may be unsure what to say, worried about being misunderstood, or simply not know where to begin.

It helps to remember that GPs are often the first point of contact for people seeking clarity about ADHD. They can listen to your concerns, rule out other possible causes, and guide you toward the right next steps, including referrals for ADHD assessment.

For many Australians, this initial conversation with a GP is the start of an important journey toward understanding their experiences, accessing support, and finding strategies that make everyday life easier.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Before your visit, it may be helpful to check with the clinic if a longer appointment is recommended for discussing mental health concerns. This can allow more time for a thorough discussion.

Being prepared helps you make the most of your consultation. Consider bringing:

A list of your main concerns and how long they’ve been present
Examples of how symptoms are affecting your daily life (e.g., work, relationships, organisation)
Any relevant personal or family medical history
Completed self-assessment checklists like the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRSv1.1)

You can also refer to trusted resources like guidance and resources for the GP to support your discussion. These details can help your GP get a clearer picture of what you’re experiencing.

Describing Your Experiences Clearly

Since GP appointments can be time-limited, it helps to describe your difficulties clearly and concisely:

Focus on how symptoms impact functioning rather than just naming traits
Use real-life examples (e.g., “I frequently lose track of time and miss deadlines at work” or “My relationships have been affected because I forget plans or seem inattentive to people I care about.”)
Mention if these patterns have been long-standing or if they started in childhood

What Your GP Can Do

GPs can play a key role in guiding the next steps. They might:

Discuss your concerns and provide initial screening
Rule out other medical causes or co-occurring conditions
Refer you for a formal psychiatrist ADHD assessment
Provide support for managing symptoms while you wait for specialist input

If you’re seeking an online ADHD diagnosis in Australia, it’s important to ask whether a referral for telehealth assessment may be suitable for your needs.

How to Self-Advocate Respectfully

While many GPs are supportive, not all may be familiar with adult ADHD. If you feel dismissed or misunderstood:

Stay calm and restate your concerns clearly
Ask for a second opinion or referral if needed
Bring printed resources to support your case

You could also let your GP know if you’re open to a telehealth ADHD diagnosis, especially if local specialist services are limited or hard to access.

What Happens Next

Following your GP appointment, you may be referred to a telehealth psychiatrist or another mental health professional. This does not guarantee immediate diagnosis or treatment, but it is an important part of a thorough process.

It is also appropriate during this stage to ask general questions such as how to get ADHD medication in Australia, and whether your GP is familiar with co-prescribing arrangements. Just note that medication decisions are made individually by the treating psychiatrist, following a comprehensive diagnostic process.

Final Thoughts: Taking the First Step Matters

Speaking to a GP about ADHD is a vital first step, and being prepared can help you feel more confident and informed. With the right support and a clear plan, many adults go on to find clarity, understanding, and effective treatment options for their needs. If you’re unsure where to begin, our ADHD treatment process outlines each step from GP referral to specialist care.