Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect attention, focus, organisation, emotional regulation, and day-to-day functioning. While ADHD is often diagnosed during childhood, many people are not diagnosed until adulthood, after years of struggling with work, study, relationships, or everyday responsibilities.
Recent changes in Queensland are improving access to ADHD care, allowing appropriately trained GPs to play a greater role in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management for eligible patients. This means many people can now access support sooner and receive care from a GP who already understands their health history.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD can present differently from person to person. Some people primarily experience difficulties with attention and concentration, while others may struggle with impulsivity, hyperactivity, or a combination of both.
Common signs of ADHD may include:
- Difficulty concentrating or staying focused
- Frequently losing items or forgetting tasks
- Challenges with organisation and time management
- Restlessness or feeling constantly “on the go”
- Impulsive decision-making
- Difficulty completing tasks or projects
- Emotional dysregulation and frustration
- Problems at work, school, or in relationships
Many adults seek assessment after recognising symptoms in themselves while supporting a child through an ADHD diagnosis.
How Can a GP Help with ADHD?
Qualified GPs can now provide comprehensive ADHD assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing management for many patients in Queensland. This can reduce waiting times and improve access to care, particularly for people who may have previously faced long delays accessing specialist services.
Your GP may:
- Discuss your symptoms and concerns
- Review your medical, educational, and family history
- Use evidence-based screening and assessment tools
- Assess for other mental health conditions that may occur alongside ADHD
- Develop an individualised management plan
- Prescribe and monitor medication where appropriate and within Queensland guidelines
- Coordinate care with psychologists, psychiatrists, paediatricians, schools, and allied health providers when needed
A Holistic Approach to ADHD Care
Effective ADHD management involves more than medication alone.
A comprehensive treatment plan may include:
- Education about ADHD
- Behavioural strategies and practical coping techniques
- Psychological support
- Lifestyle modifications
- Sleep management
- Exercise and physical activity
- Workplace or educational support strategies
- Regular reviews and ongoing monitoring
Research and clinical experience show that a combination of medical, psychological, and lifestyle approaches often delivers the best outcomes for people living with ADHD.
ADHD Assessment for Children and Adults
ADHD can affect people of all ages. Some children experience challenges at school, while adults may notice ongoing difficulties with focus, organisation, career progression, or relationships.
Experienced GPs can assess both children and adults, helping identify whether ADHD may be contributing to symptoms and determining the most appropriate pathway for diagnosis and treatment. Some GPs may also provide screening for other neurodevelopmental conditions, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Benefits of Seeing a GP for ADHD Support
One of the biggest advantages of receiving ADHD care through your GP is continuity of care.
Your GP can:
- Understand your complete medical history
- Monitor your overall physical and mental health
- Coordinate referrals when specialist input is required
- Review medications and treatment effectiveness
- Provide ongoing support over time
This collaborative approach helps ensure your ADHD care is integrated with your broader healthcare needs.
When Should You Seek an ADHD Assessment?
You may benefit from speaking with a GP if you:
- Have ongoing difficulties with concentration or organisation
- Frequently feel overwhelmed by daily tasks
- Have struggled with attention issues since childhood
- Are concerned about your child’s focus, behaviour, or learning
- Have been told you may have ADHD
- Have previously been diagnosed and require ongoing management
Early assessment and support can help improve quality of life, academic performance, workplace success, and overall wellbeing.
ADHD Support at SmartClinics
Selected SmartClinics GPs provide dedicated neurodivergence and ADHD support, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing management. Care is delivered using a patient-centred, evidence-based approach, with collaboration between GPs, specialists, families, schools, and allied health professionals when required.
If you think you or your child may have ADHD, booking an appointment with a GP experienced in ADHD assessment is an important first step towards understanding symptoms and accessing appropriate support.
Learn more here