https://www.iampsychiatry.com/private-adhd-assessment How to Diagnose ADHD Diagnosing ADHD involves gathering a lot of details. Your doctor will look at your symptoms and medical history, and then use the standard ADHD ratings scales. They'll also make sure something else isn't the cause of your child's or adult's issues like sleep apnea, thyroid issues depression, depression, or abuse. ADHD symptoms can be a significant issue in the family and at school, and persist for a minimum of six months before they can be identified. Symptoms Before determining ADHD, a health care provider must examine the patient with care. He or she will ask about the symptoms, review medical, social and family background, examine the past and present mental health and medical problems and conduct a physical examination. The doctor might also suggest tests to confirm the absence of depression, anxiety or other disorders that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD. A person with ADHD is more likely to struggle with concentration for long periods of time. This can impact schoolwork and other important tasks. They are more susceptible to be distracted by other people, activities or things that are around them. They are often unable to follow instructions, retaining details and keeping deadlines. They can be easily annoyed by criticism or have unrealistic expectations which can lead to failure and disappointment. The symptoms of ADHD are different from individual to individual and can be mild or moderate, or even severe. The mild symptoms don't interfere with a person's day-to-day activities or relationships, whereas severe symptoms can cause major issues at work or at home. ADHD is a condition that can affect individuals throughout their lives. It is more common among children, but some adults aren't diagnosed because they are able to manage the symptoms. For children with ADHD, the doctor will conduct thorough examinations, including vision and hearing tests. He or she will talk with the child,