theADHDdoc.com - Your guide to medications and complementary and alternative treatments for ADD & ADHD.

Your guide to medications and complementary and alternative treatments for ADD & ADHD.

How Do I Know If My Child Has ADHD?

The diagnosis of ADHD is made according to specific guidelines, established by the American Psychiatric Association. According to their Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), an individual needs to display symptoms of inattention alone or in combination with symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. Take our simple test to see if your child should be evaluated by their physician.

ADHD Screening Test

My child:	Rarely/Sometimes	Often/Most of the Time
fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork
has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
does not follow through on instructions; fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties
has difficulty organizing tasks & activities
avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (e.g. homework or school work)
loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books or tools)
is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
is forgetful in daily activities
My child:	Rarely/Sometimes	Often/Most of the Time
fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected
runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness)
has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
is "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor"
talks excessively
blurts out answers before the questions have been completed
has difficulty awaiting turn
interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g. butts into conversations or games)