Explain adult ADHD diagnosis and treatment plan — CASC communication station

Open and agenda-set. Name time; ask priorities (laziness label, addiction, driving, work). Validate distress without colluding with pure self-blame. [2]

Explain diagnosis. Adult ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition of attention and self-regulation beginning in childhood; school reports and lifelong multi-setting impairment support it. It is common, impairing, and treatable. It is not the same as occasional stress inattention. Scales helped screening; diagnosis is clinical.[1][2]

Explain treatment. Skills-based approaches and workplace adjustments help; structured CBT/coaching has evidence for residual symptoms. Medication (example long-acting stimulant) can reduce core symptoms for many adults; we check blood pressure/heart rate, sleep, appetite, mood, and safe storage. Benefits of stimulants are often noticed quickly at dose; alternatives like atomoxetine exist if stimulants are unsuitable.[3][5]

Addiction/diversion. Therapeutic use under supervision is different from recreational misuse. We minimise diversion risk with long-acting preparations, limited quantities, and honest review. Alcohol/other drugs worsen function — screen and support. [2]

Driving. Untreated ADHD can increase accident risk; effective treatment and avoiding substances/sleep deprivation support safety. Licensing rules vary by place — we follow local law and document advice rather than inventing bans. [4]

Close. Summarise plan, invite questions, written information, follow-up for titration and skills referral. [2]