1. Consider Family History
While researchers are still looking for the underlying genes that cause ADD and ADHD, they know that, when a child is diagnosed with an attention deficit disorder, there is a good chance the disorder is present in other blood relatives, as well. ADD is a genetically based psychiatric disorder and seems to run in families. If you're suspicious that you or a loved one has the condition, take a close look at the family's mental health history.
2. Take Note of Symptoms and Impairments
It is helpful to make a list of symptoms that you believe may be ADD-related. Many people with ADD suffer from lack of focus, severe disorganization, forgetfulness, listlessness and a disinterest in tackling or finishing projects. Others complain of constant fatigue and lethargy, or may feel as though they are daydreaming their way through life. While these symptoms may seem minor when addressed individually, a combination of them can cause frustration and depression for an ADD sufferer. Write down all of your worrisome symptoms as they occur so you don't forget to share the information with your health practitioner. ADD-like symptoms often cause people to struggle at work, school or home. Relationships become difficult and productivity may bottom out. These impairments occur as a result of many of the symptoms described above, so it is important to note and discuss these concerns with a medical expert as well.
3. Obtain an Exam by a Trained Mental Health Professional
After putting together a comprehensive history and list of symptoms and impairments, seek a medical evaluation. Your doctor will use your family history, developmental background and symptom reports to begin to understand your concerns. She will also conduct a physical exam and take a comprehensive medical history to evaluate overall health and take note of developmental problems or learning disabilities.
4. Rule Out Other Conditions
A diagnostic team of physicians and mental health professionals can help rule out conditions with symptoms similar to ADD, or diagnose conditions that coexist with the disorder. Related conditions include malnutrition, abuse or neglect, alcohol or drug addiction, depression, Tourette's syndrome or autism. Mood disorders such as anxiety and depression are also common in ADD patients, so health professionals must carefully consider these possibilities as contributors to your symptoms.
5. Undergo Diagnostic Testing
During the diagnostic process, physicians often test children using helpful tools, such as the Conners' Parent Rating Scale or the Child Behavior Checklist, which address a wide range of symptoms displayed by the child. The physician may also ask teachers and childcare workers to complete similar rating scales to address classroom behavior, social interaction and reaction to authority. While diagnosing adult ADD is a much more difficult task, there is a recently developed Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale that some psychiatrists use. In addition, a team of psychologists worked with the World Health Organization to come up with an attention deficit screening tool for adults. These tools are often used to evaluate behavior for attention deficit tendencies and narrow down a diagnosis. If someone is suspected of having ADD after a doctor reviews test and rating-scale responses, the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) is used to determine whether patients fit the diagnostic criteria for ADD or another form of ADHD based upon results for inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.
