1. Note Evidence of the Three Primary Symptoms
The symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder manifest in three ways. Children with ADHD are often hyperactive, inattentive and impulsive. In school-aged children, the hallmarks of hyperactive behavior include an inability to sit still for an extended period, such as the duration of a reading or arithmetic lesson. Instead, hyperactive children will wander around, talk to their peers and fidget rather than pay attention.
Inattentiveness is defined in ADHD diagnostic criteria as an inability to ignore external distractions in order to concentrate on a single task. Children with ADHD are easily distracted when immersed in busy environments. They also display impulsive characteristics. Typically, they act before they think and are quick-tempered. These children tend to be bossy and use yelling and hitting as a first resort to resolve disputes.
2. Consider Symptoms That Mimic ADHD
These symptoms can also be caused by factors other than ADHD. Sudden life changes, such as the divorce of the child's parents or moving to a new city, can trigger ADHD-like behavior. Some children also suffer from anxiety, depression, sleep dysfunctions, seizures and thyroid conditions that may be undetected. These conditions can also cause these symptoms. Parents should be aware of coexisting psychological conditions that may complicate an ADHD diagnosis. It is relatively common for children with ADHD to have oppositional-defiant disorders or other conduct and behavioral problems.
3. Understand Diagnostic Criteria
The "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition" ("DSM-IV") is the standard for diagnosing psychological disorders. It sets forth specific criteria regarding the three major behavioral areas (hyperactivity, inattentiveness, impulsiveness). Furthermore, the manual specifies that a diagnosis of ADHD can only be made if symptoms are present in multiple settings and have affected a child's social or academic performance for at least 6 consecutive months. Assessment requires input from the child's parents, teachers and other caregivers. Children also must be assessed for coexisting conditions.
4. Screen Adults for ADHD
It is more difficult to diagnose the condition in adult patients. The symptoms and diagnostic criteria are much more abstract, and adult symptoms are very similar to other, more common psychological disorders such an anxiety and depression.
Adults who manifest the following symptoms should be assessed for possible ADHD: forgetfulness, chronic tardiness, poor organizational skills, low self-esteem, anxiety, anger management issues, difficulty keeping a job and impulsive behavior. Physical and psychological tests and interviews of prominent people in the patient's life are also required to diagnose ADHD in an adult.
