What is the most accurate way to diagnose ADHD?

What is the most accurate way to diagnose ADHD?

Getting an accurate ADHD diagnosis comes down to the thoroughness of your performing clinician. An accurate diagnosis cannot be obtained from a brief office observation or by simply talking to your specialist, as you may not always exhibit ADHD symptoms during your scheduled visits. ADHD requires multiple forms of testing, over multiple visits, which take into account past and present symptoms.

In addition, a diagnosis of ADHD requires ruling out any other medical conditions that may be causing similar symptoms. Diagnosis must adhere to the guidelines laid out in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). In making the diagnosis, both children and adults should have at least five of the recognized symptoms present.