ADHD Diagnosis
How To Know For Sure

Before an ADHD diagnosis is given by a doctor or other health practitioner, certain symptoms must be present and various behaviors need to be observed.

The most common ADHD symptoms are inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity which may decline with age. Children with ADHD may daydream or can’t follow basic instructions. But because these symptoms are not disruptive, many are not identified as having ADHD. Some children may blurt out inappropriate comments or are unable to contain their emotions. Others can’t sit still for an extended period of time. They may fidget, squirm or become disruptive in a classroom or in social settings.

Teachers are usually the first to recognize the symptoms of ADHD because certain behaviors intensify in classroom settings. Teachers may also recognize associated learning disabilities like trouble with reading, spelling or doing simple math.

But just because these problems exist in school doesn’t mean a child has ADHD. All too often well meaning teachers incorrectly pre-diagnose the condition sending parents and students down the wrong path.

Who Should Diagnose ADHD?

The first person you should contact about the possibility of ADHD is your primary care physician. They will ask the right questions, make observations and look closely for certain behaviors.

Before a doctor will officially diagnose a child with ADHD they will want to know if the behaviors began before the age of seven and have lasted for a period of at least six months. They will also conduct a full behavioral assessment by first asking the parent to fill out a questionnaire. Most of the questions will focus on the child’s life at home. Teachers will also be asked to answer questions about behaviors observed while the child is in class.

A primary care physician may also refer a patient to other medical professionals such as a psychiatrist, neurologist or even a cardiologist. A psychiatrist will be able to diagnose conditions like depression or anxiety, which are also known to be associated with ADHD. A neurologist is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of nervous system disorders, including diseases of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. Since some of the ADHD medications can affect the heart, a primary care physician may also refer patients to a cardiologist to make sure there are no issues that may be exacerbated by taking ADHD medications.

What Happens After The ADHD Diagnosis is Made?

While there is no cure for ADHD, there are several treatments available to help people cope with the disorder. These include prescription medications, natural treatments and counseling.

Work closely with your doctor to find the right treatment for you. It is important to know that many drugs come with nasty side effects, but they can be controlled by adjusting the dosage. There is also an abundance of natural remedies on the market. But do some research before taking any of them. Many of these natural treatments are not scientifically proven and may not work.

Sometimes the best treatment following an ADHD diagnosis may be basic counseling or therapy. In many cases a child is simply not aware of how they are acting and consistent behavior modification just might do the trick.



For more information on how ADHD is diagnosed in children, watch our online ADHD Video #2.

Return From ADHD Diagnosis to Home Page