ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a complex condition that can manifest in different ways, and it is important to seek a proper diagnosis from a qualified medical or mental health professional.
There’s no simple test to determine whether you or your child has ADHD, but your specialist can make an accurate diagnosis after a detailed assessment. The assessment may include:
- a physical examination, which can help rule out other possible causes for the symptoms
- a series of interviews with you or your child
- interviews or reports from other significant people, such as partners, parents and teachers
To diagnose ADHD, a healthcare provider will typically consider the following factors:
1. Symptoms:
A person with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention, following instructions, or finishing tasks. They may also have problems with impulsivity or hyperactivity. These symptoms must be present in more than one setting (e.g., at home and at school), be persistent over time and have a moderate effect on different areas of their life, such as:
- underachieving at work or in education
- driving dangerously
- difficulty making or keeping friends
- difficulty in relationships with partners
2. Age of onset:
ADHD symptoms must begin before the age of 12. If your problems are recent and did not occur regularly in the past, you’re not considered to have ADHD. This is because it’s currently thought that ADHD cannot develop for the first time in adults.
3. Impairment:
The symptoms must interfere with a person’s ability to function in their daily life, including at school, work, or in social situations.
4. Exclusion of other causes:
A healthcare provider will also consider whether the symptoms could be caused by other factors, such as a medical condition or substance abuse.
It is important to note that there is no single test that can diagnose ADHD. A healthcare provider will typically use a combination of methods, including a thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation, to make a diagnosis.
If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have ADHD, it is important to speak with a qualified healthcare professional. They can help determine the best course of action, which may include further evaluation and treatment options.