By Dr Jaspreet Saini. Published . Updated .
Last reviewed 2026-10-16
Reports get lost, schools close and families move. Many adults worry that without paperwork from childhood, an assessment cannot proceed.
The short answer
Yes. School reports are helpful but not required. Clinicians can use your own history and accounts from people who knew you as a child.
What we know
ADHD diagnosis requires evidence that difficulties began in childhood. That evidence can come from interviews with parents, siblings or other relatives, old photographs or letters, and your own detailed recollections.
What we don't know
When no one from childhood is available and memories are unclear, the clinician may be less certain. That uncertainty should be explained to you, not hidden.
What else matters
Teacher comments are often more revealing than grades. Phrases such as 'could try harder' or 'easily distracted' are common in the reports of people later diagnosed.
What you can do next
Ask family members what they remember, write down examples from primary and high school, and gather whatever records you can. Bring them to the first appointment.
Sources
This article is general information, not personal medical advice. Speak with your own doctor about your situation.