Home › Understanding ADHD › Life After Diagnosis › Understanding My ADHD Assessment Report
Understanding My ADHD Assessment Report
Your assessment report can feel long, clinical and emotional to read. This page gently explains what is usually included, what different ADHD presentations mean, and the questions you might like to ask — so you can read your report at your own pace, with kindness towards yourself.
Key terms & labels in your report
Assessment reports can feel full of clinical language. Here is a gentle guide to the words you are most likely to see.
📋
Report contents
Most reports include your background, developmental history, screening scores, clinical observations, the outcome and recommended next steps.
🌀
Combined presentation
You experience significant traits of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This is the most commonly diagnosed presentation in adults.
☁️
Predominantly inattentive
Difficulties mainly with focus, organisation, memory and following through. Often overlooked, especially in women and quieter children.
⚡
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
Difficulties mainly with restlessness, impulsivity and waiting. In adults this can feel like an inner restlessness rather than visible movement.
🔍
Co-occurring conditions
Your report may mention other conditions, such as anxiety, dyslexia or autism, that often appear alongside ADHD and may benefit from support.
🌱
Recommendations
Suggested next steps, which may include medication titration, talking therapies, workplace adjustments or a letter for your GP.
BREAKING DOWN THE DATA
Questions to ask and prompts for reflection
Your report may contain clinical language, scores and recommendations. It is completely okay to need time, and to ask for things to be explained again. These gentle questions can help you make sense of what you have read.
Questions to ask your clinician
- Which ADHD presentation was identified, and what does that mean for me?
- Which findings were most significant in reaching the diagnosis?
- Were any co-occurring conditions considered or suggested for further assessment?
- What do the recommendations mean in practice, and who will carry them out?
- What happens next with treatment, follow-up and my GP?
- Can I have a copy of the report shared with my GP or workplace?
Reflection prompts
- Which parts of my report felt most familiar or validating?
- Was anything surprising or difficult to read?
- Which recommendations feel most helpful to start with?
- What would I like the people around me to understand?
- How can I be kind to myself while I process this?
Practical tips
- Read your report in small sections rather than all at once.
- Highlight words or scores you would like explained.
- Write your questions down before any follow-up appointment.
- Bring a trusted person along if that feels supportive.
NEXT STEPS & ADVOCACY
Questions to ask after your assessment
It is completely okay to have questions about your report. You are allowed to ask for clarification, take your time and advocate for the support that feels right for you.
Understanding my report
- Which ADHD presentation was identified, and why?
- Were any other conditions considered?
- Can you explain any terms I don't understand?
Treatment & follow-up
- What treatment options are recommended?
- Who will manage my follow-up care?
- How long might I wait for the next step?
Exploring support
- Can my report be shared with work or college?
- Which reasonable adjustments might help me?
- Are there local support groups or services?
Explore Another Topic
Understanding ADHD
Life After Diagnosis
What Support Am I Entitled To?
Trusted UK resources
If you'd like to check your options or get personalised guidance, these organisations can help.
ADHD & Me provides general educational information and personal experiences. It does not replace professional, medical, legal or benefits advice. Eligibility and support arrangements should be checked with the relevant organisation.