Frequently Asked Questions
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect a person’s attention, organisation, impulse control and ability to manage everyday activities.
Although often recognised during childhood, ADHD can persist into adulthood or remain undiagnosed for many years.
Common symptoms of adult ADHD include:
- Difficulty maintaining attention or concentrating on tasks
- Forgetfulness and frequently misplacing things
- Difficulty organising tasks, managing time or meeting deadlines
- Procrastination and difficulty completing projects
- Restlessness or feeling constantly on the go
- Impulsivity or difficulty regulating emotions
- Difficulties affecting work, study, relationships or daily responsibilities
Experiencing some of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have ADHD. Other medical, psychological and lifestyle factors can cause similar difficulties, making a comprehensive assessment important.
Yes. From October 2026, Victorian GPs who have completed recognised additional training can independently diagnose ADHD and initiate medication where clinically appropriate.
Dr Michelle Zhang has completed this training and will be offering adult ADHD assessments at Warrandyte Road Clinic.
No. Under the new Victorian framework, trained GPs can assess and diagnose ADHD and commence treatment without requiring prior psychiatrist assessment.
However, some patients with more complex presentations may benefit from specialist assessment or management.
No. An ADHD assessment is designed to determine whether you meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD.
Some symptoms associated with ADHD can also occur with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and other conditions.
The assessment fee applies regardless of whether ADHD is diagnosed.
Medication is one possible treatment for ADHD, but it is not appropriate or necessary for everyone.
If ADHD is diagnosed, Dr Zhang will discuss treatment options and consider medication based on your symptoms, medical history, preferences and clinical circumstances.
Medication prescriptions are not guaranteed following an assessment.
Yes. ADHD treatment requires ongoing monitoring to ensure that management remains effective and appropriate.
Patients commencing medication will generally be reviewed after approximately four weeks, with further appointments as needed.
Once treatment is stable, reviews are generally arranged every five to six months, depending on individual needs.
In suitable circumstances, patients with an established diagnosis and stable treatment may have ongoing medication prescribed by their regular GP, provided the relevant Victorian prescribing requirements are met and an appropriate ADHD treatment instruction has been issued.
Our initial service will focus on adult ADHD assessment, diagnosis and treatment.