Struggling with focus, impulsivity or behaviour challenges? Whether for a child or adult, this comprehensive guide explains the ADHD assessment process in simple terms—what to expect, how it works, and how to get the right support through Sureway Health & Wellbeing.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect individuals at any age. It influences attention, energy levels, impulse control, and the ability to stay organised or manage emotions.
These challenges can show up in different ways, such as struggles at school, difficulties at work, or feeling constantly overwhelmed in everyday life. That’s why getting the right assessment is so important.
If you’re a parent trying to support your child or an adult seeking clarity about your own experiences with ADHD, we’re here to guide and support you through every step.
ADHD is a condition that affects how the brain regulates attention, activity levels, and behaviour. It is commonly categorised into three types: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, or a combination of both.
In children, ADHD may appear as excessive energy, difficulty sitting still, or problems following instructions. On the other hand, in adults, this condition often shows up as disorganisation, forgetfulness, time blindness, or emotional sensitivity.
Since adult symptoms can be more subtle or misunderstood, ADHD frequently goes undiagnosed until later in life.
Getting assessed for ADHD helps uncover what’s really going on. It provides clarity, rules out other conditions, and leads to tailored support that can significantly improve quality of life.
ADHD doesn’t discriminate by age, and it can impact children, teenagers, and adults alike. An assessment can offer valuable insight and help you access the support you need. Whether you're noticing signs in your child or questioning your own patterns and challenges, seeking a professional evaluation can be a life-changing step.
Here’s a brief look at who may benefit from an ADHD assessment:
Children with ADHD
If your child frequently has trouble focusing, seems impulsive, or struggles more than their peers when it comes to their schoolwork and routines, it may be time to explore if ADHD could be a factor. These behaviours often appear both at home and in the classroom, affecting academic performance, confidence, and social development.
Adults with ADHD
Many adults living with ADHD went undiagnosed in childhood. If you're consistently feeling disorganised, overwhelmed, forgetful, or emotionally reactive, it’s worth considering an ADHD adult assessment. These symptoms can affect your work, relationships, and overall well-being. But, always remember that these symptoms are not something you have to live with unsupported.
As a parent, it’s natural to have questions or concerns about your child’s behaviour. When signs of ADHD begin to affect their learning or social interactions, early support can make all the difference.
Common Signs of ADHD in Children
ADHD in children can show up in many different ways. Some of the most common signs include:
Importance of Early Intervention
When ADHD is identified early, it opens the door to support strategies that are tailored to your child’s unique needs. Early intervention can help improve behaviour, boost self-esteem, and create a more positive learning experience.
Addressing ADHD in the early stages also helps prevent secondary issues like low confidence, anxiety, or academic struggles. The earlier children receive the help they need, the more equipped they become to develop resilience and thrive at home and school.
The Role of Teachers and Paediatricians
Teachers often play a key role in identifying possible signs of ADHD. They observe your child’s focus, behaviour, and peer interactions in a structured environment, offering insights that can be incredibly helpful during the assessment process.
Paediatricians also play a crucial role by performing developmental screenings and referring families to specialists who are trained to conduct ADHD assessments. Working together with educators, paediatricians, and families ensures that every child gets the best possible care and attention.
Assessment Process for Children
Getting your child assessed for ADHD is a comprehensive process. It involves gathering insights from parents, teachers, and clinical observations, alongside structured testing. This approach ensures a complete picture of your child’s strengths and challenges.
A child ADHD assessment in Melbourne may be conducted using the following resources:
These tools, combined with interviews and clinical observation, help determine if your child meets the criteria for ADHD and what supports might be most beneficial moving forward.
If you’ve ever wondered why staying organised, managing time, or handling stress feels harder for you than others, it could be more than just your personality or bad habits. Adult ADHD is more common than people realise, and getting assessed can provide much-needed answers.
Common Signs or Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
Some common symptoms of adult ADHD include:
Why ADHD is Often Diagnosed Later in Life
Many adults with ADHD learned to cope with their symptoms from a young age, often unknowingly. They might have worked extra hard to stay organised or avoided situations where focus was required. These strategies can work for a while, but they often fall short in adulthood, especially in complex environments like work or parenting.
Another reason for late diagnosis is that adult ADHD can be mistaken for anxiety, depression, or chronic stress. Because the signs aren’t always recognised as ADHD, many adults struggle without knowing why until something prompts them to seek help.
Benefits of Assessment and Support
Receiving a formal diagnosis can be empowering. It validates your experiences and provides a clear path forward. Many adults describe the process as a relief, helping them finally understand why certain tasks have always felt more difficult.
An accurate diagnosis leads to targeted support, including ADHD therapy, coaching, or practical strategies that make life feel more manageable. Through ADHD CBT treatment, medication, or lifestyle changes, you can learn to work with your brain, not against it.
Assessment Process for Adults
The ADHD adult assessment process in Melbourne includes both self-report tools and structured interviews. Clinicians look at how symptoms affect different areas of life, such as at work, in relationships, and across time.
A comprehensive ADHD assessment for adults may involve:
Choosing a provider who understands ADHD and how it presents in both children and adults is key to receiving an accurate and supportive assessment. Look for registered psychologists or psychiatrists with expertise in ADHD diagnosis and management.
You’ll also want to consider the format that works best for you. While in-person assessments allow for detailed clinical observation, telehealth ADHD assessments are a flexible, accessible option. At Sureway Health & Wellbeing, we offer both.
Our team provides thorough child ADHD assessments and ADHD assessments for adults in Melbourne and via telehealth. We also offer post-assessment support, including ADHD CBT treatment, therapy, and personalised care plans. If you're navigating parenting a child with ADHD or managing adult ADHD, we’re here to walk alongside you.
Children with ADHD may be eligible for NDIS funding if the condition significantly affects their daily life. The NDIS recognises ADHD as a neurodevelopmental disorder that can impact participation in learning, play, and everyday routines. Early intervention supports can provide access to therapies that build skills and promote inclusion.
Adults can also access NDIS funding, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. ADHD must have a substantial and permanent impact on key areas of life such as work, social engagement, and personal care. The application process requires clear evidence, including clinical assessments and functional reports, that outlines how ADHD affects daily functioning.
General Eligibility Criteria
To access NDIS supports, applicants must:
Support Categories
NDIS funding for ADHD may include:
At Sureway Health & Wellbeing, we can guide you through the NDIS process, from conducting a formal NDIS ADHD assessment to helping you access the right supports. We’re also here to answer your questions to clarify if ADHD is covered by NDIS.
Living with ADHD can feel quite overwhelming at times, but it’s important to keep in mind that support is always available.
Whether you're a parent seeking clarity about your child's behaviour or an adult questioning how ADHD might be affecting your day-to-day life, taking the step toward a proper assessment is an empowering move.
At Sureway Health & Wellbeing, we understand the unique challenges that come with ADHD. Our experienced clinicians provide compassionate, evidence-based ADHD assessments for both children and adults in Melbourne. We also offer flexible telehealth ADHD assessment options for those who prefer support from the comfort of home.
If you're wondering about ADHD diagnosis, exploring treatment options like ADHD therapy or ADHD CBT treatment, or seeking clarity around ADHD and NDIS funding, our team is here to guide you. We can help you understand if ADHD is covered by NDIS, how to access NDIS ADHD assessments, and what supports may be available through your plan.
Our goal is simple: to help you or your loved one feel more in control, confident, and understood. From the first conversation through to tailored ADHD treatment plans, we’re with you every step of the way.
Ready to take the next step? Book your ADHD assessment in Melbourne today. Let’s work together to unlock strategies that support your focus, well-being, and full potential.
