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The GP Conversation Kit

Ten minutes with a GP goes fast. This is everything worth having in your hand when the door closes: on this page in full, and as a one-page PDF for printing.

Your opening line

Pick one, say it early, before the appointment finds another topic:

• · “I've been struggling with focus and organisation for as long as I can remember, and I'd like to look into whether it's ADHD.”
• · “I did a structured screening using the same questionnaires clinics use; here are the results, and I'd like your advice on a referral.”
• · “This has been affecting my work and my relationships, and I want to take it seriously.”

What to bring

• · A screening report if you have one, or your own written summary of the pattern.
• · Two or three concrete recent examples: the missed deadline, the abandoned course, the unopened bills.
• · Childhood evidence: a parent's memories, old school reports. Our free guide shows how to gather it.
• · A note of anything else in the picture: sleep, stress, mood, big life changes.

Practical moves

• · Book a double appointment if your practice offers them; this conversation needs room.
• · Ask for the HSE referral even if you plan to go private; the queue costs nothing.
• · If you feel dismissed, it is fair to say: “I'd like this noted, and I'd like the referral anyway.” You are also entitled to see a different GP.

If a private clinic is on your list

• · What is the total cost, including the report and follow-up?
• · Who assesses, and are they a consultant psychiatrist or supervised by one?
• · What is the waiting time now?
• · Can prescribing be shared with my GP afterwards?
• · Is the assessment recognised by the HSE and other services?