Adult ADHD in NSW: signs, assessment and getting support

More Australians than ever are asking whether attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) might explain lifelong patterns of distraction, restlessness or overwhelm. Many adults, and in particular many women, reach their thirties, forties or later before the possibility is raised. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone, and there is a clear path to finding out more.

What ADHD can look like in adults

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means it begins in childhood, even if it was not recognised at the time. In adults it often looks different from the stereotype of a hyperactive child. Common experiences include difficulty starting or finishing tasks, losing track of time, forgetfulness, frequently misplacing things, struggling to organise paperwork and bills, and feeling restless or 'always on'.

Some people describe being able to focus intensely on things that interest them while finding routine tasks almost impossible. Emotional ups and downs, sensitivity to criticism and difficulty with sleep can also feature. These experiences on their own do not mean someone has ADHD; many things, including stress, anxiety, depression, thyroid problems and poor sleep, can cause similar difficulties.

Why many adults are only now being assessed

Awareness of ADHD in adults has grown considerably, and public conversation in Australia has encouraged many people to seek answers. Girls and women have historically been under-recognised because they are more likely to have inattentive symptoms that are quieter and easier to miss in a classroom.

Life changes can also bring symptoms into focus. A new job, starting a family, study or the extra mental load of caring for others can make strategies that once worked no longer enough.

How ADHD assessment works

A first step is usually a consultation with a GP to talk through your concerns, your history and how symptoms affect your work, relationships and daily life. The GP can check for other causes, discuss screening questionnaires, and explain the options for formal assessment.

Diagnosis involves a detailed assessment against recognised criteria, often including questionnaires, a history of symptoms from childhood and, where possible, information from someone who knew you when you were younger. Rules about who can diagnose ADHD and prescribe ADHD medicines differ between states and have been changing in New South Wales, so your GP can explain the current pathway and any referrals that are needed.

What to bring to your appointment

Preparation helps you make the most of the time. Useful things to bring include a written list of the difficulties you have noticed and examples of how they affect you, old school reports if you have them, any previous assessments, and a list of current medicines and health conditions.

It can also help to ask a partner, parent or close friend what they have observed. Note any family history of ADHD, as it often runs in families.

Support options beyond medicine

ADHD support is not one size fits all. Alongside any treatment discussed with a doctor, many people find benefit from psychological support, ADHD coaching, workplace adjustments and practical strategies such as visual planners, phone reminders, body doubling and breaking tasks into smaller steps.

Looking after sleep, regular exercise and good nutrition can make a noticeable difference to concentration and mood. Support groups and reputable organisations such as ADHD Australia offer resources for adults and families.

ADHD, anxiety and other conditions

ADHD often occurs alongside other conditions such as anxiety, depression, learning difficulties, autism, sleep disorders and substance use. Sometimes these are what bring a person to the doctor, and ADHD is only recognised later.

Because symptoms overlap, a careful assessment looks at the whole picture. Treating anxiety or improving sleep can make a significant difference, and getting the diagnosis right helps make sure support is targeted to what will help most.

ADHD at work and study

Many adults with ADHD are creative, energetic and excellent in a crisis, yet find open-plan offices, long meetings and administrative tasks draining. Small workplace adjustments, such as noise-cancelling headphones, written instructions, flexible scheduling and regular check-ins, can make work more manageable.

If you are studying, universities and TAFE institutes often have disability support services that can arrange adjustments such as extra time in exams. You do not always need to disclose a diagnosis to your employer, and it can help to think about what information you are comfortable sharing.

Supporting a partner or family member

Living with ADHD affects relationships, and family members may also feel frustrated or overwhelmed. Learning about ADHD together can reduce blame and help couples and families develop systems that work, such as shared calendars and clear routines.

Counselling and peer support groups can be valuable for both the person with ADHD and those close to them.

ADHD assessment at Morisset Doctors

ADHD assessment and management is available at Morisset Doctors. A fee applies for ADHD assessment, and reception can explain costs and appointment lengths when you book. Longer appointments are usually needed for these consultations.

If you are a parent wondering about ADHD in your child, the same first step applies: book a consultation to discuss your concerns.

Frequently asked questions

This article provides general health information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Everyone's situation is different. Please book an appointment to discuss your own health. In an emergency, call 000.