The short version
Try writing the one question you most want an appointment to help answer.
An optional starting point, not a rule for everyone.
You can bring real examples
If difficulties are affecting daily life, work, study or relationships, a qualified health professional can help you explore them. The NHS adult ADHD guide recommends seeking help when symptoms affect these areas. You do not need a polished explanation. Describe situations, their impact and the questions you want help answering.
Write down what matters to you
An optional preparation note can include what is difficult, when you first noticed it, what makes it easier or harder and any support you have tried. Include relevant changes in health or mood rather than assuming every difficulty has the same cause. Ask what information the service actually needs; this website cannot tell you what diagnosis applies.
Ask how the appointment can be accessible
You might ask for written information, a quieter waiting space, time to process questions or a support person if you want one and the service allows it. Tell the service what would help rather than relying on staff to infer it. For sensory difficulties, a professional may discuss whether specialist assessment or occupational therapy support would be useful.
Use local care routes
The linked NHS pages describe UK pathways. Referral rules, cost, waiting times and available services vary elsewhere. Check the current route where you live. If there is an immediate risk of harm or you feel unable to stay safe, use your local emergency or urgent mental health service rather than relying on this educational website.
Where this guide comes from
Book connection: Chapters 3, 5 and 7 of The AuDHD Superpower. Website adaptation with optional examples written for this site.
Additional guidance checked on 12 November 2026:
- NHS: ADHD in adults ↗
- NHS: Autism and adult life ↗
- Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust: supporting sensory processing needs ↗
Educational information, not diagnosis, treatment or legal advice. UK sources describe their own local service context. Read the care note.