If concentration, organisation or restlessness is affecting your day, it can help to put your experiences into words before you speak with a healthcare professional. You do not need to arrive with a diagnosis or a perfectly organised life story.
Start with examples from your own life
Instead of writing only “I cannot focus,” describe a situation you want help with. Perhaps you keep losing track of tasks at work or find it difficult to finish everyday responsibilities. Note when you noticed the difficulty and how it affects you.
Bring the bigger picture
An ADHD assessment considers more than the result of a questionnaire. Your clinician may ask about childhood experiences, current symptoms, functioning and other possible explanations. A screening result can help start a conversation, but it does not establish a diagnosis on its own. Read CAMH’s information about adult ADHD assessment.
A simple preparation checklist
- Write down two or three examples you would like to discuss.
- List your medicines, supplements, allergies and relevant health history.
- Note any previous assessments or support you have received.
- Write your questions in one place so you can refer to them.
Questions you can ask
“What information would help you understand my situation?” “What are the next steps after screening?” and “Would an in-person assessment or another service be appropriate?” are useful ways to begin. You can also ask about the cost and scope of any assessment before proceeding.
Starting with virtual care in Ontario
Care365 offers an online starting point to describe your symptoms. If you are looking for a virtual doctor in Ontario, explore our healthcare provider directory and start with the guided assessment. The information you share helps your healthcare professional decide what further assessment is appropriate. An online form does not guarantee a diagnosis or prescription.
This article is general patient information. Your healthcare professional can help you understand how it applies to your circumstances.
Turn information into a conversation about your care.
You do not need to have every answer before asking for help. Start by describing attention, organisation and the impact on your daily life. Care365 brings patient resources, online intake and information about our healthcare professionals together in one place.
Explore the ADHD intake →Looking for a virtual doctor in Ontario?
Meet the doctors and healthcare professionals listed on Care365, explore their profiles and check the care options available for your concern. Our patient guides cover Canadian topics; current Care365 services are focused on Ontario.
Meet our providers →Make an online consultation count
Bring examples of what has changed, your medication list and the questions that matter most to you. An online doctor can decide whether a concern is suitable for virtual care or needs an in-person examination, testing or another service.
Find your starting point →Have questions about online prescriptions?
A prescription is a clinical decision after an appropriate assessment. Ask about treatment options, benefits, risks and follow-up. Starting an intake does not guarantee a prescription, a particular medicine or a renewal; availability depends on the service and your circumstances.
Explore medication guides →Before starting, check service eligibility, availability and any fees. ADHD assessment and stimulant prescribing may require additional information or in-person care. Read Ontario’s guidance on virtual care.
