identification and referral of adults with possible ADHD

Last edited 08/2018 and last reviewed 03/2021

• adults presenting with symptoms of ADHD in primary care or general adult psychiatric services, who do not have a childhood diagnosis of ADHD, should be referred for assessment by a mental health specialist trained in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, where there is evidence of typical manifestations of ADHD (hyperactivity/impulsivity and/or inattention) that:
  • began during childhood and have persisted throughout life
  • are not explained by other psychiatric diagnoses (although there may be other coexisting psychiatric conditions)
  • have resulted in or are associated with moderate or severe psychological, social and/or educational or occupational impairment
• adults who have previously been treated for ADHD as children or young people and present with symptoms suggestive of continuing ADHD should be referred to general adult psychiatric services for assessment. The symptoms should be associated with at least moderate or severe psychological and/or social or educational or occupational impairment

Reference:

• (1) NICE (March 2018). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Diagnosis and management of ADHD in children, young people and adults