Frequently Asked Questions
About ADHD

Understanding your ADHD and getting a diagnosis is the first step to treating your ADHD, we have a list of our most common questions about ADHD below.

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How to get an ADHD diagnosis?
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There is no single medical or physical test for ADHD; it is instead diagnosed via an evaluation from an ADHD psychiatrist professional.

At Private ADHD, we ask several questions and review your medical history and lifestyle factors when we determine if our patient has ADHD during our consultation.

Is ADHD an excuse or real?
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ADHD is 100% a  real brain disorder with genetic elements; if you have ADHD, then there is an 85% chance  someone in your family has it, too. 
Research shows that ADHD comes from a chemical imbalance in the brain or neurotransmitters.

Do I have ADHD, or am I just lazy?
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People who suffer from ADHD are some of the most intelligent people in the world; if you think you have ADHD, you are not lazy; your brain just works differently.

Is ADHD a serious illness?
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Yes, ADHD is a serious illness and can have a serious effect on someone's life; perhaps one of the most concerning side effects of ADHD is how it can cause other mental illnesses to manifest, such as depression and anxiety.

ADHD is, without a doubt, misunderstood as a mild illness, which it is not for some people.

What causes ADHD?
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Doctors are still unsure what the main cause of ADHD is. It’s thought to be a combination of several factors that can cause this disorder from an early age, such as genetics, suffering a brain injury, prenatal care and childhood trauma.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of individuals globally. The causes of ADHD are multifactorial and include a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Research indicates that genetics play a significant role in the development of ADHD, with hereditary factors accounting for approximately 75% of cases. Environmental influences, such as prenatal exposure to tobacco smoke, alcohol, or stress, also contribute to the risk of developing ADHD. Additionally, premature birth and low birth weight have been identified as potential risk factors. Understanding these causes is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of ADHD, enabling better support and interventions for those affected by this condition.

What are the 3 main symptoms of ADHD?
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ADHD can have various symptoms; the three most common adult ADHD symptoms are impulsivity, disorganisation and inattention. However even if you don’t have all 3 symptoms, you could still have ADHD.

What do people with ADHD struggle with?
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People living with ADHD tend to struggle with frequently losing things, being late, overthinking, impatience, getting distracted and restlessness.

What are ADHD symptoms in adult women?
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There has been a recent surge in the amount of females getting diagnosed with ADHD, although there are still so many yet to receive the help and support they so greatly need. Some common symptoms are problems focusing, overspending, indecisiveness, problems listening and poor organisation.

What is the treatment for ADHD?
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At PrivateADHD, we create bespoke personalised treatment plans for individuals suffering from ADHD; this treatment typically consists of psychotherapy, medication and holistic lifestyle changes.

Can ADHD get worse with age?
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ADHD can change as you get older, but it doesn’t get ‘worse’. ADHD symptoms can change and wax and wane with changes in the demands and stresses of life. People find that at some points in their life they require more aggressive treatment than at other points. One might find that symptoms seem worse since you get faced with more challenges and responsibilities as an adult with ADHD.

How To Get An
ADHD Diagnosis

ADHD diagnoses are on the rise; this is down to a surge of people talking about ADHD and leaving the stigma behind. There has been much more education about ADHD thanks to social media platforms like TikTok.

To get an ADHD diagnosis, you can either go through your GP, who can refer you to a service such as ourselves or go onto the NHS waiting list if your area still has an NHS ADHD service. Going private with an online assessment is reported to be the easiest and quickest way to get an ADHD diagnosis.

Are ADHD and Anxiety Related?

ADHD and anxiety can be caused by one another. Studies show that up to 50% of people with ADHD also have one or more specific types of anxiety disorders.

How Do You Get
Tested For ADHD

At Private ADHD, we offer 1-1 online consultations with ADHD specialised NHS-approved psychiatrists who can assess and give you an ADHD diagnosis with if needed, same-day treatment depending on your location.

This assessment goes on for around 2 hours, and the ADHD clinician will ask several questions and review your medical history to make a diagnosis.

Our Reviews

"Dr. Kooner is the best doctor both myself and my daughter have had the pleasure to meet and work with. He has transformed our lives in the way he listened to us and diagnosed both of us. He has an incredible bedside manner, very thoughtful, measured and never judging. He also has a very good aftercare service and you can see and feel he is genuinely caring for you and seeking the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Dr.Kooner"
Peter M
Verified Review Trustpilot
"I've never been listened to since I've been able to go to the doctors myself for help... It wasn't until I seeked private help with Dr Kooner at PrivateADHD, where I was finally listened to and taken seriously. He went through everything in so much detail and diagnosed me with ADHD. We have regular catch ups to ensure the medication is working for me, which is great... Since being placed on the recommended medication by Dr Kooner, my life has changed for the better, everyone around me has seen such a positive outcome and change."
Betheney
Verified Review Trustpilot
"Absolutely amazing company and people working for it,  couldn’t recommend more. Life changing decision and one of the most positive experiences I have ever had. My doctor it’s so easy to talk to, so compassionate about what he does, it makes so easy to connect and feel so comfortable to open up and he totally honest. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to Dr Kooner and all the team!"
Agnes Zwierk
Verified Review Google
"Dr Kooner actually spent ages discussing my adult son & related issues. It is easy to make appointments, Dr Kooner is always on time, lovely to speak to & the medication arrives pretty much within 48 hours. I am just so glad that we came across Dr Kooner & Private ADHD. Thank you Team Dr Kooner!"
Lucy
Verified Review Trustpilot
"Dr. Kooner is the best! He is so reliable and has great and fast communication. When I first moved to London, it was very difficult for me to get the ADHD prescription, I was taking in the states. I thought I wasn’t going to be able to take my medication here anymore until I found PrivateADHD. They made it so easy and stress-free to get my prescription and I cannot recommend them enough."
Estee
Verified Review Google & Trustpilot
"Very helpful doctor. His deep understanding of the unique challenges that come with ADHD is evident in every interaction and his support extends beyond just medical treatment - for eg. he routinely discusses and offers practical strategies to manage daily life. He takes the time to understand each patient’s individual needs and provides tailored advice that makes a real difference. For anyone seeking a comprehensive, well-rounded approach to ADHD treatment, I would highly recommend Dr. Kooner."
Anonymous
Verified Review Trustpilot
"After several difficulties with pharmacies previously due to the stock issues when I was under the GP temporarily I was so grateful that Private ADHD was able to see me within 48 hours and I had medication delivered to my house which was a pleasant surprise.

Cannot recommend enough, efficient, thorough and seamless experience.I felt the prices and process was explained clearly I understood how many I will need before getting transferred to the GP"
Parth Verg
Verified Review Trustpilot
"Very professional. Helpful and took his time to explain everything. A positive appointment"
Kelly Hyde
Verified Review Google
"I waited nearly 2 years for an NHS ADHD diagnosis; following the NHS appointment in April I was told the wait to start medication would be 8-10 months. In complete despair, I decided to seek private treatment- I contacted Dr Kooner and was able to book a diagnostic reassessment and initial medication titration appointment within 24 hours, and received my first prescription within 3 days. Having access to medication has been an absolute game changer for me and I am so thankful to Dr Kooner for this!"
Sophie
Verified Review Trustpilot
"I am on a waiting list for adhd but could not wait so went private I see dr kooner and was great understanding, sympathetic and empathic and he was a good listener and I felt relaxed chatting with him"
Shane Marriott
Verified Review Trustpilot
"Had a consultation with Dr Pav. Cannot recommend highly enough, I had been struggling with symptoms that had been affecting my life for some time. I went to the GP and was told the waiting time was 3-5 years.Booking with privateadhd.co.uk was surprising easy. Once I chose my appointment and confirmed the booking I was sent a pre assessment questionnaire that took about 30 mins to complete, I filled this out with my partner.After this I received a phone call from the doctor and we confirmed the video call appointment for the very next day..."
Vinay Tagger
Verified Review Trustpilot
"I had an exceptional experience with PrivateADHD for my ADHD diagnosis, and for anyone stuck on the lengthy public waitlist, I highly recommend taking the leap and seeking a private assessment through them...

From day one, PrivateADHD was incredibly responsive and supportive. Out of all the private clinics I reached out to, they stood out for their kindness and willingness to address any question or concern I had along the way. I’m genuinely grateful for the care they showed me, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice to go through them..."
Ash Jayne
Verified Review Trustpilot
"Wonderful response time and has always made time for my questions and concerns, the past services helped me out many times over the past year and I’m sure will continue to support me and plenty other in the future!"
Dylan
Verified Review Trustpilot
"Great service. Very knowledgeable about everything ADHD and super fast service. Would highly recommend 👌"
Fleur
Verified Review Trustpilot
"I have been affected by ADHD symptoms all of my life and decided after family members had been diagnosed and treated with good results that I should try and get an assessment and see if I could benefit from treatment. I was assessed by Dr Kooner over a video chat and found him to be very thorough, informative, patient and helpful... I felt listened to and that I was given informed choice and that my views and opinion mattered. He didn’t rush me and I felt that the experience was safe and comfortable..."
Seana
Verified Review Trustpilot
"I cannot recommend this psychiatrist enough. They have helped me with many problems, providing exceptional support and care."
Meera Ravi
Verified Review Trustpilot
"I have been suffering from a significant number of ADHD symptoms as a child, which worsened over the years. This convinced me to get assessed for ADHD privately, as the NHS waiting list is extremely long (up to 4 years for an assessment).

I liked how he intensively explained what causes ADHD, how ADHD runs in families, and such. Finally, as someone who has ADHD, he completely understands the debilitating and crippling effects ADHD has had on me academically, socially, and mentally throughout the years."
Namaan
Verified Review Trustpilot