Do You Have ADHD? The Truth About Testing

Author: Michael Valuta, UF Undergraduate student

Published: March 6, 2024

ADHD Assessments

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that includes a child or adult having trouble with impulsivity, hyperactivity, and/or distractedness. ADHD assessments, otherwise known as ADHD screenings, are evaluations to determine whether one who is exhibiting potential ADHD symptoms has the disorder. It is important to undergo assessments with a qualified professional to determine if one truly has ADHD or a similar condition.

How do ADHD Assessments Work?                                        

ADHD assessments work to identify whether the symptoms of ADHD are present and impairing daily function. Furthermore, the assessments work to rule out alternative causes for symptom’s presence. This may include troubles with sleep, troubles in social settings, and/or other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and autism. Additionally, identifying comorbidity, such as a learning disability, intellectual disability, and/or other diagnosed disorders, is important for understanding and potential treatment moving forward.

What to Expect During an ADHD Assessment

ADHD assessments will include objective testing and/or rating scales. Guidelines from the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Addition Test Revision (DSM-5-TR) are used to guide the diagnostic process. Moreover, a general examination may accompany an assessment to rule out other conditions.

ADHD Assessment Results

Results vary with an ADHD assessment, including the possibility that a different condition or no condition is present. If one meets the ADHD diagnostic criteria of the DSM-5-TR, the healthcare provider may diagnose one of four types of ADHD:

·         Predominately hyperactive/impulsive type: one has had hyperactive/impulsive behaviors for at least six months, but their symptoms are not considered as “inattention.”

·         Predominately inattentive type (formerly known as attention deficit disorder or ADD): one has had problems with inattention for at least six months but is not considered hyperactive/impulsive.

·         Combined type (inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive): People have symptoms from both types of ADHD for at least six months. Children with ADHD usually have this type.

·         Other specified/unspecified ADHD: one has problems with inattention but does not meet the criteria to receive an ADHD diagnosis.

What to Expect After Testing

If the healthcare provider screens you positive or diagnoses one with ADHD, then the provider may prescribe treatment, which may include medication and/or behavioral strategies to manage ADHD symptoms. The provider may also suggest additional testing and/or follow up appointments.

If the healthcare provider concludes that one does not have ADHD, then the provider may recommend additional testing or future appointments.

Learn More About ADHD Testing

The FLOAAT Center offers ADHD Assessments for people 5 years and older who have been displaying signs of ADHD. Our team is here to help you take the first step toward getting the care you need. Contact us today if you are interested!

References:

Cleveland Clinic medical. (2023, February 23). ADHD screening: What to expect. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/24758-adhd-screening

Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents. (2021). Pediatric Clinical Practice Guidelines & Policies, 21st Ed, 5–75. https://doi.org/10.1542/9781610025034-part01-clinical