3 Ways to Diagnose ADHD

1. Understand the Diagnostic Process

You'll need to consult both a medical doctor and a psychologist to have ADHD assessed, whether you're the parent of a child who may have the disorder or you have the symptoms yourself. While doctors use a codified set of scientific criteria to make a diagnosis, keep in mind that no two cases of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder are alike. The diagnostic criteria are flexible, but in all cases they require persistent of symptoms for at least 6 months. You'll also have to show that the quality of life for you or your child is diminished because of them.

Your doctor will use a relative scale to indicate the severity of the ADHD condition. The condition can range from mild to severe, and your case may be labeled "inattentive-impulsive" or "hyperactive," depending on which of these major symptoms is dominant.

2. Diagnose a Child With ADHD

The first signs that your child may have attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder may come at school. If your child doesn't do well academically, despite average or above-average intelligence, and has impulse control and social behavior issues, ADHD may be the cause.

As a parent, you'll be part of the diagnostic process. The doctor will need to gather information from you as well any other teachers or caregivers to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. Your child will also need to complete some intelligence, behavior and development tests to complete the assessment.

3. Detecting Adult ADHD

The symptoms of adult ADHD are also related to a number of other emotional and hormonal imbalances and conditions. If you think you may have a case of adult ADHD, your doctor will need to rule out thyroid problems, anxiety, depression and other behavioral or compulsive disorders.

While most cases of adult ADHD are carried over from childhood, there have been cases where the condition didn't set in until later in the patient's life. If you're exhibiting symptoms that are having a negative impact in your life, make an appointment with your doctor to find out what's causing them and arrange treatment.