Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Assessment
ADHD (or ADD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder and medical condition. People with ADHD have differences in brain development and activity that affect attention and self-control.
What are some of the signs and symptoms of ADHD?
- Short attention span, especially for non-preferred tasks
- Impulsivity, which may look like recklessness
- Fidgeting or restlessness
- Disorganization and difficulty prioritizing tasks
- Poor time management and time blindness
- Frequent mood swings and emotional dysregulation
- Forgetfulness, even with reminders
- Blurting out answers to questions before they are fully asked
- Interrupting others’ activities and conversations
- Making careless mistakes
- Difficulty engaging in quiet activities without disturbing others
- Talking a lot, even when there is not much to say
- Avoidance of activities that require sustained concentration and a lot of mental effort
- Struggles to control anger or frustration
- Difficulty completing tasks before moving to the next activity
- Problems remaining seated when this is expected
- Losing things
- Distractibility
- Difficulty waiting patiently to take turns
When should an evaluation be scheduled?
It is normal and expected for children to get distracted and have lots of energy, and having some of the symptoms listed above does not necessarily mean that your child will be diagnosed with ADHD. You should consider an evaluation, though, if the symptoms are interfering with daily functioning (at school, at home, in the community, with peers).
It is also important to remember that diagnosing ADHD in young children younger than age 4 should be done carefully since these behaviors are more common and expected in young children, and many have not yet been in a structured environment like preschool. If your child is hyperactive to the point that they or others are at significant risk of injury, or they have been ejected from preschool or daycare, or their behavior is starting to be harmful to your relationships or mental health as a parent, then it’s probably time to seek some help.
Dr. Ensign is always available for a FREE phone consultation to listen to your concerns and help you decide if an evaluation seems appropriate. Contact her today to get this scheduled!
What does an ADHD evaluation look like?
Because many other conditions look like ADHD, and attention problems are symptoms of other conditions as well, an evaluation will always be comprehensive to be sure that the right explanation for the symptoms is made. Each child’s test battery will be unique based on that child’s specific situation, but the evaluation will always include:
- A parent interview that includes information about medical, developmental, social, behavioral, and school history
- Rating scales to be competed by parents, teacher, and the child (depending on age) that are specific to ADHD and also broader to include the range of behavioral and emotional functioning
- Tests of executive skills, such as planning, monitoring, working memory, and sustained attention
Dr. Ensign will also need to see educational reports (e.g., report cards) or any previous testing that has been done. Testing will also often include tests of cognitive functioning and academic achievement since it is not uncommon for children with ADHD to also have learning difficulties.
If the ADHD evaluation signals that the attentional problems may be due to a condition other than ADHD, Dr. Ensign will discuss this with you, as additional testing may need to be done.
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There is NO WAIT LIST at this time for testing appointments.
Call now to schedule an appointment or a FREE phone consultation with Dr. Ensign.
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