‘Until You Get the Diagnosis You're Forever in Limbo’—Parents' Experiences of Waiting for an Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Assessment With Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services

Key Points

• Parents feel uncertain during the waiting period for an attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder diagnosis, indicating a significant emotional toll.
• Thematic analysis of interviews revealed insights into the challenges faced by parents while waiting for assessments.
• Co-production of interview schedules involved PPI panel members who shared lived experiences related to neurodivergent children.
• Findings underscore the necessity for improved communication and support during the assessment process.

Abstract