🇨🇳 ADHD Diagnosis in China
China's approach is hospital-centric. Private standalone clinics are rare; most care happens in the "Mental Health Centers" of major public hospitals. The system is efficient but can feel rushed and impersonal compared to the West.
Quick Summary
- Pathway: Public Hospital Psychiatry Departments (Mental Health Centers)
- Cost: Registration: ¥50–¥300 | Testing: ¥500–¥2,000+
- Wait Time: High variability (Weeks for famous experts, Days for general doctors)
- Key Requirement: Diagnosis must come from a Tier 3 Hospital to be officially recognized for school accommodations.
The "Mental Health Center" Model
In China, you do not go to a "therapist's office." You go to a large, specialized hospital (e.g., "The 600" in Shanghai). The process is medicalized: you register, wait for your number, and see a doctor.
Recommended Clinics
Shanghai Mental Health Center (SMHC)
Known locally as "600 Wanping Nan Lu." The most famous psychiatric hospital in China.
- • Top-tier specialists
- • Dedicated ADHD outpatient clinics
- • Includes a "VIP" wing for faster service (higher cost)
Peking University Sixth Hospital (Beijing)
The national leader in psychiatric research.
- • National center for mental health
- • Highly academic approach
- • Strict diagnostic criteria
United Family Healthcare (Private/Expat)
If you require English service and Western-style comfort.
- • Very expensive (International insurance recommended)
- • Western-trained doctors
- • 1-hour consultation slots (vs 10 mins in public)
Treatment Options
Medication
- • Limited Options: Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and Atomoxetine are the main options.
- • Adderall is Illegal: Amphetamines are strictly banned.
- • Logistics: You may be required to bring your ID card every time you refill a prescription.
TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine)
- • Doctors often prescribe TCM herbs alongside or before stimulants to "nourish the kidney" or "calm the spirit."
- • Acupuncture is frequently suggested for children to reduce hyperactivity.
Cost & Wait Times
Registration Fee
- General: ¥25
- VIP Expert: ¥800+
- Testing: Computerized attention tests (QbTest) and eye-tracking are popular and cost ¥300–¥800.
Medication
- Generally covered by national insurance (Yi Bao), but imported brands (Concerta) can be pricey (~¥1,000/month).
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: WeChat Booking
Almost all appointments are booked via the hospital's WeChat Mini-Program. Slots for top experts open at 12:00 AM and vanish in seconds.
Step 2: Registration
Arrive at the hospital, scan your ID, and wait in the triage area.
Step 3: The "3-Minute" Consult
Public doctors see 100+ patients a day. Have your symptoms written down clearly. You will likely be sent immediately for computerized testing.
Step 4: Testing
You do the tests in a separate room and bring the printed results back to the doctor.
Step 5: Diagnosis
The doctor reviews the data and prescribes medication.
⚠️ The "Gotcha"
There are several critical gotchas to be aware of when seeking ADHD diagnosis in China:
- • Tier 3 Hospital requirement: For school accommodations, you must get diagnosed at a Tier 3 Hospital. A diagnosis from a lower-tier hospital or private clinic may not be accepted by schools.
- • Rushed consultations: Public doctors see 100+ patients per day, leading to very brief (3-minute) consultations. Come prepared with written symptoms and questions.
- • Adderall is illegal: Amphetamines are strictly banned in China. Only Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and Atomoxetine are available. Do not attempt to bring Adderall into the country.
- • Adult ADHD awareness: Adult ADHD is still a very new concept. You may need to see a "Child & Adolescent" psychiatrist even as an adult, as they have the ADHD training.
- • ID card requirement: You may be required to bring your ID card every time you refill a prescription for controlled substances.
Important Considerations
"Discipline" Culture
Teachers may view ADHD behaviors as a parenting failure. A formal medical diagnosis is the only way to get teachers to back off.
Adult ADHD
Still a very new concept. You may have to see a "Child & Adolescent" psychiatrist even if you are 40, as they are the ones with ADHD training.
Common Screening Tools Used in China
Before your formal assessment, you may encounter these screening tools. These are commonly used by Chinese healthcare providers and can help you prepare for your evaluation:
ASRS-6 Short Form
WHO-developed screener used globally. Quick 6-question assessment often used as an initial screening tool in China.
Take ASRS-6 →CAARS-S (Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scale)
Used in Chinese assessments. Provides subscale scores for inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and self-concept.
Take CAARS-S →DIVA-5 Self-Check
Based on the comprehensive diagnostic interview. Uses DSM-5 criteria, sometimes used alongside CCMD-3 assessments.
Take DIVA-5 →CCMD-3 Self-Check
Based on China's official diagnostic manual. Assesses ADHD symptoms according to CCMD-3 criteria, aligned with ICD-10 and DSM-IV standards.
Take CCMD-3 →All Screening Tools
Explore our complete collection of ADHD and related screening assessments.
View All Screeners →Related Resources
Important Reminder
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for diagnosis and treatment decisions. Healthcare systems and provider availability may change over time.
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