The ADHD community says it's in crisis with more than 80% struggling to get support.
Long waits at District Health Boards, most of which won't see adults at all, is forcing most patients to seek help privately or give up entirely.
An estimated one in 20 New Zealanders have the condition and some are now resorting to Tik Tok for medical advice.
The Ministry of Health says it's always concerning to hear some are struggling to access the support they need, and it recognises inconsistencies across DHBs in how they treat adults with ADHD and mental health issues.
It says its response to the Mental Health and Addiction Inquiry and wider health reforms will create a more unified approach across public and private health providers, and it's also working to put more counsellors in schools to help children and young people.
Here's investigative reporter Anusha Bradley.
