How to Prepare for Your ADHD Assessment

Starting the journey towards an ADHD diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially if you're unsure what the assessment process involves. At Mentalwell, we aim to make this experience as straightforward and supportive as possible. Whether you're seeking clarity, exploring treatment options, or simply trying to understand yourself better, your ADHD assessment is an important step.

This guide outlines the assessment process, how to prepare, and what happens afterwards. We will walk you through each stage so you can feel confident and well-informed.

What the ADHD Assessment Involves

1. Pre-Assessment forms

Once you book your appointment with Mentalwell, you’ll receive access to our secure online portal with several questionnaires to complete. These help us understand your current experience, history, and potential ADHD symptoms.

This will include:

• The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) 

• A background and medical history form

• A lifestyle and well-being questionnaire

How to prepare:

There is nothing formal you must prepare; find a quiet moment to reflect on your symptoms and challenges, and be aware that you may need to find out about any familial history of ADHD or mental health disorders. Completing the questionnaires typically takes under an hour.

2. Video conference ADHD assessment

Your assessment will take place via secure Zoom with a qualified clinician. This conversation typically lasts between 90 and 120 minutes. 

This will include:

• A detailed discussion of your current symptoms

• Your developmental history, including childhood behaviour

• Any relevant medical or mental health history

• Standardised questionnaires completed during the appointment

How to prepare for an ADHD assessment:

Before your appointment, ensure you have a valid photo ID ready for verification. Try to find a quiet space where you feel comfortable speaking openly. Be prepared to talk about everyday challenges, even those that seem small or vary day to day, so it can be helpful to think of examples in advance. Keeping a notepad nearby can also help you remember any points that come to mind during the session.

What you may need to gather beforehand

• Any past mental health assessments or ADHD evaluations, including previous diagnoses (if applicable).

• A current list of medications, including dosages and duration.

• Family history of ADHD, autism, or other mental health conditions, if known.

• Details about your childhood, if available, such as school reports, learning difficulties, or early behaviour patterns

• Notes about your current symptoms

You don’t need to bring a formal report, but gathering the relevant information before the session can be helpful.

What happens next?

Within 7 working days, you will receive a summary letter with your assessment outcome. If you’re eligible and interested in treatment, we’ll guide you through our medication titration process, where we work with you to find the most effective dose and monitor your progress (usually takes between 2 and 3 follow-ups).

Once treatment is stabilised, you can continue prescriptions directly through Mentalwell by renewing the treatment plan once the initial ends. Alternatively, you may share your outcome letter with your GP and request a Shared Care Agreement for ongoing treatment after completing your treatment plan with us.

A Final Note

We know that beginning the journey toward an ADHD diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve lived with unanswered questions for a long time. Knowing what to expect and being prepared for your ADHD assessment can reduce much of the uncertainty surrounding it. At Mentalwell, we’re here to make the process as calm, clear, and supportive as possible. You don’t need a perfect memory, just show up as you are and share your experience honestly.