Get assessed

Getting assessed for ADHD in India

What to prepare, who can assess you, and what to ask. Written in plain words, one step at a time.

Who can assess ADHD

A qualified psychiatrist or a clinical psychologist. A family doctor, a teacher, a friend or an app cannot. If you are not sure who to see, start by asking a doctor you trust for a referral.

A directory of clinics is not on this site yet.

What usually happens

A conversation about what is hard for you now, and what you remember from childhood.
Questions about school, work, relationships and daily routines.
Often, questionnaires or rating scales.
Checks for other things that can look similar, such as sleep problems, anxiety or low mood.

It may take more than one visit. Each clinician works differently, so ask what to expect.

The standard guidance used by clinicians (the DSM-5-TR) looks at whether symptoms began in childhood and show up in more than one part of life. That is why your history matters.

Your checklist

Before you go

Tick things off as you go. Your ticks stay on this device only.

0 of 7 ready

Write down three childhood memories. Your clinician will ask about when things began.
Note where it shows up: home, work, study, relationships. One place is not enough information.
Ask someone who knew you as a child, a parent or sibling, what they remember.
Gather old school reports or anything else from childhood, if you still have it.
List your current medication and any health conditions you know about.
Write your questions down. It is easy to forget them in the room.
Ask the clinic what the assessment includes, how long it takes, and what it costs before you book.

Questions to ask the clinic

What does the assessment include?
How long does it take, and is it one visit or more?
What does it cost, including any follow-up?
Will I get a written report?
What happens after the assessment?

Common questions

Can I diagnose myself?

No. A checklist or an online quiz can only tell you it may be worth talking to someone. Only a qualified psychiatrist or clinical psychologist can assess ADHD.

Is ADHD something adults can have?

Yes. The US National Institute of Mental Health notes that ADHD can continue into adulthood, and that many adults are diagnosed later in life. I was diagnosed at 33.

Do I need a parent or sibling to come with me?

Not always, but childhood history matters, so some clinicians ask for it. If that is difficult for you, tell the clinician. You can bring old school reports or notes instead.

How much will it cost?

It varies by city and by clinician. Ask for the fee and what it covers before you book.

What if the clinician dismisses me?

You can ask for a second opinion. Take your notes with you and say plainly what is hard in your daily life.

Should I start medication on my own?

No. Please talk to a doctor before changing or starting anything. This site cannot advise on medication.

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