This is the route the NHS describes for an adult, in its own words. It starts at your GP; what happens next depends on where you live. Children’s routes differ by area.
Docorix read the official pages named on this page on 30 October 2026. This is information, not medical advice, and Docorix is not part of the NHS and cannot make or speed up a referral. Waiting times, caps and provider lists change without notice: confirm with your GP and the provider before you rely on anything here.
1See your GPTell them how ADHD symptoms affect your study, work or relationships.
2GP decides on referralThey must agree it is clinically appropriate.
3Choose the routeLocal NHS service, or in England Right to Choose.
4Specialist assessmentAn ADHD specialist, such as a psychiatrist.
5Diagnosis and planLifestyle, adjustments, medicines, talking therapies.
6Medicines startedStarted and monitored by the specialist.
7Back to your GP?Only if a shared care agreement exists.
If your ADHD symptoms are affecting your studies, work or relationships, the NHS says to make an appointment with a GP to find out what support is available. The GP may also want to consider other conditions, such as autism, Tourette’s or anxiety. Source: NHS – ADHD in adults
2. Referral
The GP may decide to refer you for an assessment with a mental health professional specialising in ADHD. If you were diagnosed with ADHD in childhood and need help for your symptoms, the NHS says to talk to your GP about getting a referral. Source: NHS – ADHD in adults
3. Choosing where
The NHS says you may be able to find a clinic with shorter waiting lists through your GP using the Right to Choose scheme, and that you can ask for an NHS appointment at any clinic, including a private clinic, if it provides ADHD services for the NHS in England. Source: NHS – ADHD in adults
4. The assessment
Your appointment will be with an ADHD specialist such as a psychiatrist. The specialist may want to contact someone who knows you well, such as a family member or close friend. Source: NHS – ADHD in adults
5. Your plan
The NHS says ADHD can be managed in many ways, including lifestyle changes, changes at work, or medicines, and that not everyone needs or wants to take medicine. Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy or mindfulness may be recommended for adults. Source: NHS – ADHD in adults
6. Medicines
ADHD medicines must be started and monitored by an ADHD specialist. The NHS names methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine and says you may need to try more than one medicine. Source: NHS – ADHD in adults
7. Back to your GP?
A GP may be able to take over prescribing ADHD medicines, but only if there is a “shared care agreement” between the GP and the ADHD specialist. Source: NHS – ADHD in adults
How long it takes
No single answer
Waiting times vary and you may have to wait several months or years to access ADHD specialist services. Source: NHS – ADHD in adults
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