Adult ADHD: what an assessment looks for beyond distraction

Forgetfulness and organisational difficulties can occur with ADHD but do not prove it. Assessment considers childhood history and effects on work, education and relationships, alongside other possible explanations or conditions.

Prepare concrete examples: unfinished tasks, lost instructions or forgotten appointments. Describing situations is more useful than simply saying you are distracted; information from someone who knows you may help.

Support can include written instructions, a quieter workspace, task structure, therapy or specialist-monitored medication. Not everyone needs medicine, and symptom similarities in a video are not a reason to try stimulants yourself.