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ADHD in Adults – An Overview by the Craigie Partnership

  • Writer: Craigie Partnership
    Craigie Partnership
  • Mar 18
  • 5 min read

Updated: Mar 20


Woman wearing a hidden disabilities sunflower lanyard

At the Craigie Partnership, we frequently see clients with mental health or coaching concerns who may have been diagnosed with or suspect they might have ADHD.  This specialist condition requires a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist or a specially trained ADHD health specialist.


Unfortunately, we cannot offer a formal diagnosis of ADHD or other neurodevelopmental conditions in our practice.  However, we are an ADHD-friendly team and in this article we have collected a range of resources to help support adults looking for help with living with ADHD or who want to know more about it (including advice on how to get a diagnosis).


Below, we cover the following topics:


 

1. What is ADHD and how common is it?


ADHD is short for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.  In the UK, the prevalence of ADHD in adults is estimated at 3-4%, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 3:1*

ADHD is classified as a neurodevelopmental condition and is part of the neurodiversity spectrum.  Every person is unique and will have different experiences; not all symptoms mean you have ADHD.  Common features may include restlessness, difficulty with attention and concentration, or acting on impulse.  At work, some people report issues with time management and organization, following instructions, or maintaining focus to complete tasks.  Symptoms may vary between individuals, with some showing more signs of inattention and others showing more signs of hyperactivity or impulsivity, or a combination of both.  Other factors like personality type and life experiences can also play a role.


 

2. How do I get a formal assessment?


The first step is to speak to your GP.  Note that your GP cannot formally diagnose ADHD. They will ask questions about your symptoms, their duration, and their impact on your daily life (work and/or relationships).  They might also assess risk factors such as driving.

Unfortunately, waiting lists for formal assessments in the NHS can be long, often several years.  Nevertheless, if you believe you have symptoms impacting your life, speak to your GP and go prepared with relevant information.  The ADHD Foundation has produced an excellent PDF booklet (Takeda ADHD in Adults - V5.pdf) advising on how to prepare for your GP meeting, including listing reasons you think you might have ADHD and the impact on your life.  Refer to the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) for more information on self-assessment (see section 5 below). 

 

3. Understanding Inattention, Hyperactivity, and Impulsivity


In a formal assessment, a psychiatrist or specialist will assess you against 18 symptoms, grouped into 9 areas of Inattention and 9 areas of Hyperactive or Impulsive behaviour. Here is a brief overview (remember, this is not a diagnosis):


-  Inattention: Frequently failing to give full attention, making mistakes, struggling with longer tasks (e.g. lectures), regularly failing to finish tasks, struggling to manage time or meet deadlines, avoiding tasks requiring mental effort, being easily distracted, and forgetting things (e.g., paying bills).


- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Feeling restless or fidgety, struggling to stay seated, being unable to do tasks quietly, feeling always "on the go," struggling to be still for extended periods (e.g., waiting in a queue), speaking excessively, interrupting others, and not giving others space to speak.


Symptoms need to be present for at least 6 months, typically developing during childhood, at a higher level than most adults, and causing problems in life (relationships, work, etc.).  It's possible to be predominantly Inattentive, Hyperactive, or a Combined type.

 

4. What might be some of the positive aspects of ADHD?


ADHD doesn't define who you are; everyone is unique (with or without ADHD).  If you've been living with ADHD, you've likely developed resilience and important coping skills.  Achievements should not be minimized, as living with ADHD can be challenging.  Many people with ADHD can live rich, fulfilling lives, just as many with undiagnosed dyslexia have achieved great things.


The ADHD Foundation describes positives like this: "Hyperactivity can be viewed as being energetic, as having drive and enthusiasm.  Impulsivity can be viewed as decisiveness—willing to take a chance, seize an opportunity.  Inattention and mind wandering can be seen as having an imaginative mind, seeking ideas, inspiration, new experiences, and curiosity."

Learning to embrace who we are, recognizing strengths and areas for development, is the first step towards moving forward positively with ADHD.

 

5. Can I do a Self-Assessment?


While waiting for a formal assessment can be frustrating, it is essential not to self-diagnose without a trained professional.  Other conditions can appear similar to ADHD, and a formal diagnosis is crucial before any medical intervention.  ADHD can also coexist with other conditions, needing thorough exploration if you've been having difficulties.


The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) is a Self-Assessment tool frequently used to help as an initial indicator.  The ASRS won't definitively say if you have ADHD but may help you decide if you want a formal assessment and understand symptoms your GP might want to know more about.  The ASRS is a short questionnaire with 18 questions, asking you to rate how often you experience specific problems.  If you are working with one of our psychologists at the Craigie Partnership, we can assist you in understanding the ASRS and guide you through it during a session.

 

6. BBC Panorama investigation on ADHD clinics (2023)


As professionals, we understand the frustration of long waiting times for formal assessments.  It can be tempting to seek alternative ways, including private clinics or online information.  While some private clinics offer excellent services, caution is also needed. In 2023, a BBC Panorama investigation looked into private ADHD clinics, sending an undercover reporter to three private clinics and an NHS assessment.  All three private clinics wrongly diagnosed the reporter with ADHD, offering prescription drugs.  The NHS correctly identified that he did not have ADHD.


We highlight this investigation to inform readers, not to scare them, but rather to help clients make informed choices impacting their lives and loved ones.  The Scottish ADHD Coalition released an official statement in response to the BBC investigation, which helps give a balanced view.


If you are looking for a private ADHD assessment, we advise that you carefully read the information provided, verifying if you are being offered an official assessment and diagnosis, and that the service provided is offered by suitably trained and qualified experts in the field.

 

7. What does the Craigie Partnership offer?


Our team of highly experienced and qualified Psychologists, Therapists and Coaches help individuals through all walks of life, whether it’s dealing with mental health issues, career coaching or counselling.  As trained professionals, we use a blend of evidence-based, client-centred approaches to help people in life, including living with different conditions.  As previously mentioned, we cannot diagnose ADHD, but we can help individuals looking to manage their well-being and get the most out of life.  This includes helping with planning and organising, exercise, sleep, healthy habits, managing stress, improving communication and signposting to sources of helpful information.  We offer coaching and talking therapies such as CBT or ACT and tailor all approaches to individual needs.  We can also help you understand the ASRS self-assessment tool. Contact | Craigie Partnership

 

8. Resources


We have gathered a list of resources to help you learn more about ADHD in adults for yourself or a loved one.


 

Neurodiversity resources for education, employment, students, employers and individuals:


Information and Resources from Education Scotland:

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