ADHD is one of the most common reasons families and adults seek psychiatric care, and one of the most important to evaluate carefully. Here's what a thorough ADHD evaluation involves.
Why a quick online quiz isn't enough
Trouble focusing is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Anxiety, depression, poor sleep, sleep apnea, thyroid problems, learning disorders, trauma, substance use and stress can all look like ADHD. A good evaluation looks for these, because the right treatment depends on the real cause.
What the evaluation looks at
- Current symptoms across settings like home, school or work, and relationships
- Childhood history, because ADHD symptoms begin in childhood even when they're recognized later
- Rating scales completed by the patient, parents and, for children, teachers
- Records such as report cards, teacher comments and prior testing
- Other conditions that commonly occur alongside ADHD or mimic it
- Medical history, including heart health, sleep and current medications
For children (age 6+)
Parents are central. Teacher rating scales are especially valuable because ADHD needs to show up in more than one setting. Bring report cards and any school evaluations, 504 plans or IEPs.
For adults
Many adults, particularly women, weren't identified as children. It helps to bring old report cards if you can find them, and to ask a parent, sibling or partner what they've observed. We'll look carefully at anxiety, mood and sleep, which frequently overlap with adult ADHD.
After the evaluation
If ADHD is diagnosed, treatment options may include medication (stimulant or non-stimulant), practical strategies, school or workplace supports, and treatment of any co-occurring conditions. If the picture isn't clear, formal psychological testing may be recommended. A diagnosis or prescription is never guaranteed; the goal is an accurate answer.
Ready when you are
Joy Integrative Psychiatry offers ADHD evaluation and treatment by telehealth for children 6+, teens and adults throughout Arizona. Request an appointment when you're ready.
This article is for general education and isn't a substitute for individual medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988 or call 911.