How Do I Get an Official Test for ADHD?

How Do I Get an Official Test for ADHD?

While there is no single medical, physical, or genetic test for ADHD, a diagnostic evaluation can be performed by a licensed mental health professional or physician. This may be your primary health physician, an ADHD specialist, or another certified healthcare professional. Your chosen practitioner will assess for ADHD using multiple testing methods.

These may include ADHD symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales, gathering a detailed history of your past and current symptoms, and obtaining additional information from your family members and/or significant other(s). Testing may also include cognitive and academic examination to rule out a possible learning disorder. Your diagnosis will be determined by your clinician based on the number and severity of your symptoms, the longevity of symptoms, and the degree to which these symptoms affect your day-to-day life. Your ADHD specialist will also determine, or rule out, if your symptoms are being caused by a coinciding condition.