1. What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that commonly presents with difficulties in attention, impulse control and activity regulation. ADHD affects how people plan, start and finish tasks, manage time and regulate energy — which can lead to procrastination, being easily distracted, and episodes of ‘task paralysis’ where even simple tasks feel overwhelming.

ADHD can affect children, adolescents and adults. Symptoms vary between individuals and often change with age and life demands. A thorough assessment by an experienced clinician — including history, validated rating scales and collateral information where possible — is key to an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

2. Common challenges people seek help for

People with ADHD often present with a combination of:

• Procrastination: Difficulty initiating tasks despite intention or understanding why they matter.
• Unfocus & distractibility: Trouble sustaining attention, frequent task switching and losing track of priorities.
• Task paralysis: Overwhelm when planning or starting a task leading to avoidance or postponement.
• Time management problems: Underestimating how long tasks take and chronic lateness.
• Low energy or inconsistent motivation: Fluctuating drive — high on some activities, low on others.
• Executive function difficulties: Organising, sequencing steps, working memory and follow-through.

These challenges affect performance at work, academic studies, relationships and daily routines. The good news: a structured, individualised plan combining psychiatric input, behavioural therapy and practical coaching often produces meaningful improvements.

3. How our doctors help — assessment, psychiatry & team approach

At Kensington Park Medical we offer a collaborative model of care:

• Comprehensive assessment: Thorough history, screening tools and consideration of co-existing conditions (anxiety, depression, learning differences, sleep disorders).
• In-house psychiatrist guidance: Our psychiatrist reviews complex cases, confirms diagnosis, advises on medication options and co-ordinates care when specialist input is needed.
• GP & allied health coordination: GPs, psychologists and occupational therapists work together to deliver behavioural therapies, skills training and workplace or education support plans.
• Personalised treatment plan: Tailored to your goals — improved focus, reduced procrastination, better time management and emotional wellbeing.

We prioritise a biopsychosocial approach: biological treatments when indicated, combined with psychological interventions and practical environmental changes to support lasting functional gains.

4. Treatment strategies: behavioural therapies, skills training & medication

Successful ADHD management commonly uses several complementary strategies. Below are the core components our team uses to help patients overcome procrastination, unfocus and task paralysis.

a) Psychoeducation & structure

Understanding how ADHD affects your brain reduces self-blame and shapes realistic expectations. We provide practical education about attention cycles, energy management and how to design routines that work with — not against — your biology.

b) Behavioural therapies & coaching

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for ADHD: Targeting unhelpful thinking patterns that drive avoidance and procrastination while teaching concrete task-initiation skills.
• Skills-based coaching: Time-blocking, task chunking, prioritisation matrices, and use of timers/alarms to convert intentions into action.
• Occupational therapy strategies: Environmental adjustments, executive function supports and workplace modifications.

c) Energy management & lifestyle

Small lifestyle changes can boost focus and resilience:

• Consistent sleep routine — sleep greatly affects attention and impulse control.
• Regular physical activity — movement helps attention and mood regulation.
• Nutrition and hydration — stabilising blood sugar and reducing caffeine swings.
• Mindfulness and brief attention training exercises to expand sustained focus capacity.

d) Medication management (when appropriate)

When behaviour strategies are insufficient on their own, medication can be highly effective. Our psychiatrist and GPs follow evidence-based guidelines and work collaboratively to:

• Discuss pros, cons and realistic goals for medication
• Prescribe stimulant or non-stimulant options where appropriate
• Monitor response, side-effects and adjust dosing
• Combine medication with therapy to maximise real-world functioning

e) Addressing co-existing conditions

Anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance and learning differences frequently co-occur with ADHD. Treating these issues is essential for reducing overwhelm and improving task initiation.

5. Applying strategies: workplace, studies and at home

Our plans focus on real-life outcomes — getting work done, studying effectively and reducing household friction. Examples of targeted interventions:

Workplace

• Task design: Break complex projects into 20–40 minute focused blocks with short rewards.
• Environmental tweaks: Minimise visual and auditory distractions; create a ‘focus’ workstation.
• Communication tools: Use calendar sharing, brief check-ins, and written task lists to reduce memory load.
• Reasonable adjustments: Support letters and workplace recommendations when appropriate.

Study & exams

• Active revision: Use retrieval practice, spaced repetition and short practice tests to cement learning.
• Study scheduling: Distribute study in short, consistent sessions rather than marathon sessions that trigger avoidance.
• Exam accommodations: Support for extra time, quiet rooms or assistive technology where eligible.

Home & daily life

• Routines & anchors: Morning and evening anchors reduce decision fatigue (e.g., same breakfast, place for keys).
• Visual systems: Use labelled boxes, checklists and timers for chores and routines.
• Family strategies: Shared calendars, predictable handoffs and clear expectations reduce conflict.

These real-world approaches are taught, practiced and reinforced in therapy sessions so they become habitual rather than one-off tips.

6. ADHD care pathway in KPMP

Our typical pathway is transparent and practical:

1. Referral & booking: Self-referral or GP referral; pre-appointment questionnaires to understand current challenges.
2. Comprehensive assessment: Medical & developmental history, symptom scales, collateral information where possible (partner, workplace or school reports).
3. Psychiatric review: Our in-house psychiatrist reviews complex cases and advises on medication and co-management plans.
4. Collaborative care plan: Individualised package combining therapy sessions, coaching, occupational therapy and medication if indicated.
5. Ongoing follow up: Regular reviews to adjust strategies and maintain gains; liaison with employers/educational institutions when needed.
6. ADHD Coaching: We highly recommend Kensington Psychology and Wellbeing for ongoing ADHD Coaching.
7. Paediatrics ADHD diagnosis: This is a complex age group which does require more attention which should come from paediatricians or Paediatric psychiatrist. As such, we will not be able to provide this service at KPMP. We would be happy to refer to the most appropriate specialist.

Fees, Medicare rebates and referral requirements will be explained during booking. We aim for efficient, timely access and clear communication throughout the care journey.

7. Frequently asked questions

Can adults be assessed for ADHD at Kensington Park Medical?

Yes. Adults are commonly assessed and managed. We use validated screening tools, a detailed clinical interview and gather collateral history when possible.

How long before I see improvement?

Behavioural changes often show improvements within weeks with structured coaching. Medication effects can be rapid (days to weeks) depending on the agent; full functional gains are often seen over several months as skills are practised.

Is medication always required?

No. Some people benefit from behavioural strategies, coaching and lifestyle changes alone. Medication is considered when symptoms significantly impair functioning and other measures are insufficient.

Will my employer or university be informed?

Only with your consent. We can provide supporting documentation or liaise with institutions if you request assistance with reasonable adjustments.

Do you offer telehealth?

No — We feel that a face-to-face initial appointment is the best way to assess this complex condition which a telehealth appointment cannot. Followup appointments can be done through telehealth once deemed appropriate.

8. Why choose Kensington Park Medical for ADHD help in Adelaide?

• Psychiatrist-led team approach: Our in-house psychiatrist guides complex assessments and medication decisions.
• Integrated team: GPs, psychologists and allied health provide practical coaching and skills training.
• Real-world focus: We prioritise strategies that improve workplace, study and home functioning — not just symptom checklists.
• Respectful, confidential care: Private, supportive consultations tailored to your needs.
• Accessible Adelaide location: we highly recommend the use of Kensington Psychology and Wellbeing experts as we work closely with them in providing a wholesome approach to our ADHD patients.

Book ADHD help in Adelaide

If procrastination, unfocus or task paralysis are holding you back, our team at Kensington Park Medical can help. We combine psychiatrist guidance, behavioural therapies and practical coaching to create a plan that fits your life and goals.

Book an ADHD consultation

This page provides general information and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Your doctor will assess suitability for any treatment including medication and therapies.