Many adults in the UK live with undiagnosed ADHD, often attributing their daily challenges to personal shortcomings rather than a neurodevelopmental condition. Common experiences include consistently misjudging time requirements for tasks, difficulty maintaining focus during conversations, or struggling with organisational systems that seem straightforward to others. 

These challenges aren’t character flaws. They may indicate ADHD, a condition affecting an estimated 3-5% of the adult population in the UK. The 2025 NHS Taskforce report has highlighted a significant gap: adult ADHD remains under-recognised and under-treated across our healthcare system, leaving many without access to appropriate support and intervention. 

Recognising Adult ADHD: Common Presentations 

Adult ADHD often presents differently than the stereotypical image of a hyperactive child. In adults, symptoms tend to manifest in ways that can be mistaken for stress, personality traits, or other mental health conditions. 

Time Management and Planning Difficulties 

Adults with ADHD frequently experience challenges with time perception and task planning. This includes consistently underestimating task duration, struggling to meet deadlines despite good intentions, or difficulty completing projects. According to NICE guidelines, these planning and organisational difficulties are core neurological symptoms rather than matters of personal discipline. 

Emotional Regulation Challenges 

Emotional responses in adults with ADHD can be more intense and variable than typical, including quick frustration over minor setbacks, difficulty moderating reactions, or rapid mood changes throughout the day. Emotional dysregulation is frequently associated with ADHD in adults and contributes to day-to-day challenges. It’s important to distinguish this from mood disorders, though they can coexist. 

Variable Focus Patterns 

Many adults with ADHD experience inconsistent attention patterns. They may demonstrate intense concentration on engaging tasks (hyperfocus) while struggling to maintain attention on routine or administrative tasks. This variability can be confusing, as performance can appear inconsistent. 

Working Memory Difficulties 

Memory challenges in ADHD go beyond occasionally misplacing items. Adults often report difficulties retaining information from conversations, remembering appointments without multiple reminders, or keeping track of multi-step tasks. 

The Impact of Undiagnosed ADHD 

Living with undiagnosed ADHD can have significant consequences. Without understanding the neurological basis for their challenges, many individuals develop negative self-perceptions and counterproductive coping strategies. Common impacts include: 

• Academic or professional underachievement relative to capability 

• Difficulties maintaining relationships and social connections 

• Increased risk of anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders 

• Career instability and financial management challenges 

• Chronic stress from attempting to compensate without appropriate support 

Recent data reflects growing recognition of this need: In England, 278,000 people received ADHD medication prescriptions in 2023-24, representing an 18% increase from the previous year (The Guardian). This increase likely represents improved identification of previously undiagnosed cases. 

The ADHD Assessment Process 

Understanding what an ADHD assessment involves can help adults make informed decisions about seeking diagnosis. According to NICE guidelines, a comprehensive adult ADHD assessment includes: 

• Clinical interviews using validated diagnostic tools and structured questionnaires 

• Developmental history gathering information about childhood symptoms, often with family input where possible 

• Differential diagnosis to identify or rule out other conditions with similar presentations 

• Functional assessment examining the impact of symptoms on work, education, relationships, and daily activities 

• Clinical formulation synthesising all information to determine whether diagnostic criteria are met 

NICE Quality Statement 2 clearly states: “Adults who present with symptoms of ADHD without a childhood diagnosis must be referred to a specialist for assessment.” 

Access and Waiting Times 

While the need for ADHD assessment and support is clear, accessing timely diagnosis through NHS services presents significant challenges. NHS England Digital reports that up to 549,000 people may have been waiting for an ADHD assessment as of March 2025, with this figure rising to 668,370 by June 2025. 

The NHS ADHD Taskforce’s interim report found that 40% of respondents reported waiting times of 2 years or more, with some services reporting waits ranging from one year to over ten years. In certain areas, services have temporarily closed to new referrals, with waiting lists exceeding 10 years. 

Why timely access matters: Living with undiagnosed ADHD can significantly impact mental health, relationships, career progression, and overall quality of life. The 2025 NHS Taskforce report emphasises that delayed diagnosis carries both human and financial costs, with unsupported ADHD linked to increased risks of unemployment, mental health difficulties, and reduced life opportunities. 

For adults seeking clarity on whether ADHD may be affecting their daily functioning, access to assessment within weeks rather than years can be transformative. Early diagnosis enables access to appropriate treatment, workplace adjustments, and support strategies that can materially improve outcomes across all life domains. 

Treatment and Support Options 

Following diagnosis, adults with ADHD can access various evidence-based interventions. NICE guidelines recommend a multimodal approach, combining different treatments based on individual needs, symptom severity, and personal preferences. 

Medication 

Stimulant medications are the first-line treatment for ADHD. Most adults experience clinically meaningful improvement on stimulants, though response varies. Non-stimulant options such as atomoxetine are available for those who cannot tolerate stimulants. 

Treatment typically involves a titration period of 6-12 weeks to find the optimal dose, followed by regular monitoring and annual reviews. Many adults benefit from shared care arrangements, where ongoing prescribing transfers to their GP with specialist oversight. 

Psychological Interventions 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy adapted for ADHD helps adults develop practical strategies for time management, reducing procrastination, and managing emotional dysregulation. ADHD coaching provides targeted support for organizational challenges and developing sustainable routines. 

Workplace and Academic Support 

Adults with ADHD are entitled to reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010. This may include: 

• Access to Work funding for assistive technology or workplace coaching 

• Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) for academic support and equipment 

• Flexible working arrangements or modified deadlines 

Lifestyle Modifications 

Evidence supports several lifestyle strategies as part of comprehensive care: 

• Regular aerobic exercise to improve attention and reduce hyperactivity 

• Consistent sleep schedules to regulate ADHD symptoms 

• Structured routines that provide external organisation 

• Balanced nutrition to maintain stable energy and focus 

Our Support 

At Spectrum Mind, we provide comprehensive post-diagnostic support, including detailed treatment recommendations, signposting to appropriate services, and guidance on accessing workplace or academic accommodations. Our reports facilitate smooth transitions to ongoing care, whether through NHS or private providers. 

Our Approach at Spectrum Mind 

We recognise that timely access to assessment can be crucial for adults who suspect they have ADHD. While NHS England reports hundreds of thousands waiting for ADHD assessments, with some facing multi-year delays, we provide assessment appointments within weeks. This faster pathway can make a significant difference for adults experiencing difficulties at work, in relationships, or with daily functioning, enabling earlier access to diagnosis, treatment, and workplace support. 

At Spectrum Mind, we provide comprehensive ADHD assessment and support services for adults across the UK: 

• Comprehensive assessments following NICE guidelines and best practice standards 

• Detailed reports providing clear diagnostic outcomes and recommendations for ongoing care 

• Psychoeducation helping individuals and families understand ADHD and develop effective management strategies 

• Flexible access options including private assessment pathways with appointments available within weeks 

• Neurodiversity-affirming practice recognising both the challenges and strengths associated with ADHD 

Our team includes specialists with extensive experience in adult neurodevelopmental conditions. We understand that seeking assessment as an adult requires careful consideration, and we aim to make the process as clear and accessible as possible. 

Next Steps 

If you recognise these symptoms in yourself, professional assessment can provide clarity and access to appropriate support. Adult ADHD is a recognised neurodevelopmental condition with established diagnostic criteria and effective treatments. 

To discuss assessment options or learn more about our services, please contact Spectrum Mind through our website or call our team. We offer initial consultations to help you understand the assessment process and determine the most appropriate pathway for your needs. 

References 

• NHS England. (2025, June 20). Report of the independent ADHD Taskforce: Part 1. https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/report-of-the-independent-adhd-taskforce-part-1/ 
• NHS England Digital. (2025). ADHD Management Information – May 2025 (March 2025 data). https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/mi-adhd/may-2025 
• NHS England Digital. (2025). ADHD Management Information – August 2025 (June 2025 data). https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/mi-adhd/august-2025 
• House of Commons Library. (2025, August 29). FAQ: ADHD statistics (England). https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/faq-adhd-statistics-england/ 
• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2018, updated 2019). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: diagnosis and management. NICE guideline [NG87]. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng87 
• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2013, updated 2018). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. NICE quality standard [QS39]. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/qs39 
• The King’s Fund. (2025, June 24). Waiting for an NHS adult ADHD assessment in England. https://www.kingsfund.org.uk/insight-and-analysis/blogs/waiting-nhs-adult-adhd-assessment-england 
• The Guardian. (2024, July 26). “Record numbers in England taking ADHD medication, NHS data shows”. https://www.theguardian.com/society/article/2024/jul/26/record-numbers-in-england-taking-adhd-medication-nhs-data-shows 

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you suspect you may have ADHD, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. 

About Spectrum Mind: Spectrum Mind is a specialist neurodevelopmental assessment service providing comprehensive ADHD and autism assessments for children and adults throughout the UK. Our multidisciplinary team delivers evidence-based assessments following national guidelines and best practice standards.