Arriving at a positive diagnosis for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is not without its challenges, as there are many comorbid conditions, or conditions with overlapping symptoms, that go along with ADHD. Some of these conditions could include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, or mood disorders. Consequently, there are several different steps and tests involved in the ADHD diagnosis process.

With that in mind, initial consultations are typically required before any tests are conducted, wherein the medical doctor may ask questions about the individual’s social habits, personal and family medical history, strengths and weaknesses when it comes to focusing and concentration, while also providing educational resources and information about ADHD.

After this initial consultation, there can be several different tests that the medical doctor may find appropriate to conduct given the circumstances. Some of these tests could include any of the following:

• ADHD rating scales
• Broad-spectrum scales
• Computer tests
• Intelligence tests
• Tests of specific abilities

While there is no laboratory test to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) outlines three different types of ADHD that a person can be diagnosed with, in which six or more symptoms of each type must be present for a diagnosis to be made. These ADHD types and symptoms are as follows:

Inattentive type:

• Avoids or dislikes activities or tasks that require sustained focus and concentration
• Difficulty staying focused on activities or tasks, including reading, conversations, or class lectures
• Difficulty with organizational skills
• Does not follow through with instructions or complete schoolwork or chores
• Does not pay close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in school or chores
• Does not seem to listen or appears to be ‘elsewhere’ when being spoken to
• Easily distracted
• Frequently loses things, such as books, glasses, or school papers
• Often forgets about chores or assignments

Hyperactive-impulsive type:

• Always moving or on the go
• Blurts out answers before a question is finished or finishes other people’s sentences
• Difficulty playing quietly
• Difficulty staying seated
• Difficulty waiting their turn
• Frequently runs at inappropriate times or climbs objects that should not be climbed
• Often interrupts others
• Often fidgets, taps hands or feet, or squirms around in their seat
• Talks excessively

Combined type: most common type of ADHD, wherein individuals have symptoms of both of the above ADHD types.

In order to get screened for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, most individuals first visit their family doctor or pediatrician for an initial assessment. If the family doctor or pediatrician has the requisite training for ADHD screening, they can provide that for you. If not, they may refer you to a specialist.

If you have a child that requires ADHD screening, we would be happy to see them at Kidswood Pediatrics! Our board-certified pediatrician has plenty of experience and training in providing ADHD screening to kids in a friendly and accepting environment.

Since diagnosing ADHD can be a complicated process, it can take anywhere from one hour to complete an assessment to over eight hours, requiring several appointments, before an ADHD diagnosis can be confirmed.

If you would like to learn more about ADHD screening or want to Make an appointment with us at Kidswood Pediatrics, we welcome you to do so through our website or by giving us a call!