ADHD Diagnosis in the UK: Your 2025 Guide to Getting Assessed
Why ADHD Diagnosis Matters
An ADHD diagnosis can be life-changing — whether you're a parent, a professional, or someone who's struggled silently for years. It can unlock support, treatment, understanding, and peace of mind. But in the UK, navigating the diagnosis process can feel like a maze — especially with the NHS Right to Choose changes in 2025.
This guide breaks down your options, timelines, and next steps.
NHS vs Private ADHD Diagnosis
| Pathway |
Average Wait Time |
Cost |
Notes |
| NHS GP Referral |
12–36 months |
Free |
Long waits, often under-resourced |
| Private Clinics |
1–8 weeks |
£800–£1,200 |
Faster, but expensive |
| Right to Choose (RTC) |
4–12 weeks |
Free (via NHS) |
NHS-funded access to private assessments |
What Is Right to Choose?
Right to Choose (RTC) is an NHS policy that lets you request a referral to a private provider — paid for by the NHS — if you're facing long wait times. Clinics like Psychiatry UK are commonly used for this route.
As of 2025, the RTC process has changed:
GPs are required to confirm “clinical appropriateness,” not just preference
Fewer clinics are approved due to capacity and regulatory updates
Regional differences in how easily GPs approve referrals
✅ It’s still possible — but you need to be clear, persistent, and prepared.
Step-by-Step: How to Get an ADHD Diagnosis in 2025
Book a GP appointment
Share your symptoms honestly, and ask about ADHD assessment options.
Ask about Right to Choose
Bring printed documentation if needed (you can find it on NHS or clinic websites).
Complete provider forms
Clinics will send you questionnaires to support the referral.
Wait for your appointment
If accepted, most assessments are done via video within 4–10 weeks.
What Happens After Diagnosis?
After your ADHD assessment, you may:
Be prescribed medication (e.g. Elvanse, Concerta XL , Atomoxetine)
Start titration (testing dosage over 6–12 weeks)
Be offered therapy or additional support
Get shared care agreements with your NHS GP (for continued prescriptions)
Do Supplements Help After Diagnosis?
Yes — they can. Many people combine ADHD medication with targeted supplements to support:
Energy (via NMN or B-vitamins)
Calm and sleep (via magnesium glycinate)
Gut-brain support (via probiotics)
Dopamine production (via iron and zinc)
Brain structure and focus (via choline)
📌 Learn more: ADHD Supplements That Actually Work →
Attentiv’s Role
We don’t diagnose or treat ADHD. But we do support thousands of people navigating it with:
Research-backed supplements (no sugar, no fluff)
Honest content around ADHD, focus, and energy
Partner clinics and upcoming services to make care more accessible
Whether you’re pursuing a diagnosis or already on medication, we’re here to support your journey with expert-formulated products that work.
