How to Get Diagnosed with ADHD in Adults (Australia): Your 2025 Guide
- Tristan Chooi
- 5 days ago
- 8 min read
If you’re here, chances are you’ve been wondering for a while whether the way your brain works might be a little different. Maybe you’ve always struggled with focus, motivation, or just getting through the day without losing your phone, your keys, and your patience. Or maybe you’ve just started learning about ADHD in adults and thought, “Wait… this sounds a bit too familiar.” ADHD often continues into adulthood and can affect many aspects of adult lives.
I get it. As someone who also has ADHD, I know how messy and overwhelming it can feel when you’re stuck in your own head. ADHD can impact the daily lives of adults, influencing both personal and professional experiences. The good news? You’re not alone. And there is a path forward. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how ADHD diagnosis works in Australia in 2025—from that first “maybe” moment to getting support that actually fits you.
First, What Even Is Adult ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) isn’t just a kids’ thing. For many of us, the signs were always there—but they got missed, masked, or mislabelled along the way. ADHD is a developmental disorder that begins in childhood and often continues into adulthood. You might not be bouncing off the walls, but maybe your thoughts are. Or maybe you’re chronically exhausted from trying to “keep up” when everything feels just a bit harder than it should be.
ADHD is associated with differences in brain development and function, which can affect a person's ability to focus, regulate emotions, and make decisions.
Some common adult ADHD signs (these signs reflect differences in attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation):
Trouble starting (and finishing) tasks
Forgetting appointments, deadlines, or what you walked into the room for
Emotional ups and downs
Zoning out in conversations
Constantly feeling overwhelmed or “behind”
Difficulty organising your day, money, or space
Sound familiar? Let’s talk about what to do next.
Understanding Adult ADHD Symptoms
Recognising adult ADHD symptoms is a crucial first step toward improving your mental health and daily life. While ADHD is often associated with children, adults can experience a unique set of challenges that affect their relationships, work, and overall well-being. Common symptoms of adult ADHD include difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, and persistent hyperactivity—though these may look different than in childhood. For example, you might find yourself easily distracted during meetings, struggling with time management, or having trouble staying organised at home or work.
Impulse control issues can lead to risk-taking or saying things without thinking, while difficulties with time management and self-regulation can make it hard to meet deadlines or keep up with daily responsibilities. These challenges can impact your confidence and relationships, sometimes leading to feelings of frustration or overwhelm.
Understanding these symptoms is essential, not just for your own clarity, but also for seeking an accurate ADHD assessment. By identifying how ADHD symptoms show up in your life, you can work with professionals to develop strategies that help you manage your condition and improve your quality of life. Remember, recognising the signs is the first step toward effective diagnosis and treatment.
Step 1: Talk to Your GP
In Australia, your GP (General Practitioner) is a medical doctor and your first port of call. They can assess your symptoms and refer you to appropriate healthcare services for further evaluation. Here’s what usually happens:
Book a longer appointment so you have time to talk about your symptoms.
Ask about an ADHD assessment and whether a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist is appropriate. ADHD assessments are available for adults of any age, but doctors will look for symptoms that started before a certain age (usually before age 12).
Some GPs are super across ADHD. Some… not so much. If you don’t feel heard or validated by the service provided by your doctor, you’re allowed to seek another medical doctor for a second opinion. It’s your health. You deserve to be taken seriously.
Step 2: Get a Mental Health Care Plan (Maybe)
If your GP agrees that further assessment makes sense, they might set you up with a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). This plan allows you to claim a Medicare rebate for sessions with a psychologist related to mental health conditions.
To access the MHCP, you will need to complete certain forms or steps with your GP. While MHCPs cover support for mental health conditions, they do not cover the cost of completing a formal ADHD diagnostic assessment. However, they can help reduce out-of-pocket costs for sessions related to managing ADHD.
Preparing for an ADHD Evaluation
Getting ready for an ADHD evaluation can feel daunting, but a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan that truly fits your needs. Start by keeping a detailed record of your symptoms—note when they occur, how they affect your daily life, and any patterns you notice. This could include examples of missed deadlines, trouble focusing at work, or difficulties managing everyday tasks.
Gather any relevant medical records, including past diagnoses or treatments, as these can provide valuable context for your healthcare professional. During the assessment, a psychologist or psychiatrist will ask about your symptoms, behaviour, and how ADHD may be affecting your life. They might use questionnaires, interviews, or cognitive tests to get a full picture.
Honesty is key—be open about your experiences, even if they feel embarrassing or difficult to talk about. The more information you provide, the more accurate your diagnosis will be, and the better your healthcare professional can tailor a treatment plan to your unique situation. Remember, this process is about understanding you, so you can get the support and treatment you deserve.
Step 3: The ADHD Assessment
ADHD assessments in adults usually involve:
A detailed clinical interview (covering history, symptoms, challenges) to assess ADHD symptoms and gather relevant background information.
Standardised questionnaires (like the DIVA-5 or ASRS) are used to further assess the presence and severity of ADHD symptoms.
Sometimes input from someone who knows you well (like a parent or partner) helps to assess your functioning across different settings.
The assessment process is supported by research and uses evidence-based tools to ensure accuracy. Part of the assessment is to rule out other conditions that may mimic or coexist with ADHD, ensuring a thorough and accurate evaluation.
Who does the assessment?
Psychologists: Can diagnose provide therapy for ADHD. Fees vary, rebates apply with MHCP.
Psychiatrists: Can diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication. Covered partially by Medicare.
At Reimagine, we support adults through this process—especially those who’ve felt ignored or brushed off before. We don’t gatekeep. We listen, and we walk alongside you.
Post assessment, your results will be explained clearly, and we’ll discuss the next steps, which may include follow-up consultations, treatment planning, or recommendations for further evaluation or support.
What About the Cost?
Here’s the honest breakdown:
Psychiatrist ADHD assessment service: Can range from $400–$900+ out-of-pocket for the initial consult
Psychologist assessment service: Typically $200–$350 per session, often needing 1–3 sessions
With a MHCP, you get up to 10 rebated sessions a year (rebate is around $98.95 per session). Some private health funds also chip in—it’s worth checking.
We know finances are a barrier for a lot of people. If cost is a concern, there are supported options available—talk to your GP about public referral services or community clinics with lower fees. It’s not always fast, but it’s a start.
Step 4: What Happens After the Diagnosis?
This is where a lot of people think, “Okay, cool, I’ve got the diagnosis—now what?” The answer: this is actually the beginning.
After a diagnosis, support might look like:
Different ways to treat ADHD, including therapy and medication
Medication (can be prescribed by a psychiatrist or GP as part of your treatment plan)
Psychological support (therapy, skill-building, strategies)
Coaching or executive function support
Accommodations at work or uni
At Reimagine, we focus on building practical strategies that work in real life. Think of it as learning how your brain works—and then building a life that works with it, not against it. Individuals are supported through ongoing treatment and resources to help them manage ADHD in their daily lives.
Treatment Options for ADHD
When it comes to treating ADHD, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution—treatment options are as individual as you are. Most adults benefit from a combination of psychological treatments, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. Medications, including both stimulants and non-stimulants, can help manage symptoms of ADHD by improving focus and reducing impulsivity. Your healthcare professional will work with you to find the right medication and dosage, if that’s appropriate for you.
Psychological treatments, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), are also highly effective. These therapies help you develop strategies for managing time, staying organised, and coping with relationship difficulties that can arise from ADHD symptoms. Group therapy or family therapy can provide additional support, helping you and your loved ones understand and navigate the challenges together.
Lifestyle changes—like regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management—can further reduce symptoms and improve your overall well-being. The key is to work closely with your healthcare professional to create a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. With the right combination of treatments and strategies, managing ADHD becomes much more achievable.
Building a Support Network
Living with ADHD is easier when you’re not doing it alone. Building a strong support network can make a world of difference in managing symptoms and improving your quality of life. Support groups—whether online or in-person—connect you with others who truly understand what you’re going through, offering a safe space to share experiences and advice.
Family members and friends can also be invaluable allies. Encourage them to learn about ADHD so they can offer meaningful support and encouragement. Psychologists and psychiatrists are key members of your support team, providing professional guidance and helping you navigate treatment options.
In Australia, organisations like the ADHD Foundation and ADHD Australia offer resources, education, and support for both individuals and families. By reaching out and building connections, you’ll find not only practical help but also the understanding and encouragement needed to manage ADHD symptoms and thrive in everyday life.
Long-Term Management and Care
Managing ADHD is a lifelong journey, but with the right strategies and support, it’s absolutely possible to lead a fulfilling and productive life. Long-term care involves regular check-ins with your healthcare professional to monitor your progress, adjust your treatment plan, and address any new challenges that arise. This ongoing support helps ensure your treatment remains effective as your needs change.
Continuing healthy habits—like exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress management—can make a big difference in reducing symptoms of ADHD. It’s also important to keep developing strategies for specific challenges, such as difficulty concentrating or impulse control, so you can stay on top of your goals and responsibilities.
A strong support network, including family, friends, and professionals, will help you stay motivated and resilient. With consistent care, practical strategies, and the right resources, you can manage your symptoms, protect your mental health, and enjoy a rich, rewarding life. Remember, ADHD is just one part of who you are—and with the right support, you can achieve your full potential.
Common Roadblocks (and How to Handle Them)
“What if I’m just lazy?”You’re not. ADHD isn’t a character flaw. It’s a brain difference.
“It’s too expensive.”We get it. Many people are affected by barriers such as cost, stigma, or previous negative experiences when seeking an ADHD diagnosis. There are options. Public waitlists, MHCP rebates, or even starting with one session just to talk it through.
“I don’t even know where to begin.”That’s why we’re here. You don’t have to figure it all out today.
“I had a bad experience before.”Sadly, many adults have been dismissed by providers in the past. Our clinic is run by people who get it. Austin and I both have ADHD—we know how that feels.
Why Now Might Be the Right Time
It’s 2025. ADHD in adults is being talked about more openly than ever. There’s less stigma. More understanding. More support. If you’ve been quietly wondering for months (or years), you deserve answers—and a path forward.
Getting a diagnosis won’t magically solve everything. But it can give you language, clarity, and a map. It’s a way of saying, “This makes sense now. And I don’t have to keep doing it the hard way.”
Need help getting started? Contact our team here.
