How Long Does It Take To Diagnose ADHD?
There is no single medical test for ADHD.
It’s not something that can be diagnosed with a blood draw or some kind of scan.
Rather, ADHD is often diagnosed through a series of assessments and evaluations.
As a result, you’re not going to receive a diagnosis in a day or two.
It can often take weeks, but it’s worth it to ensure you’re getting the right kind of diagnosis and treatment plan.
Let’s cover a few helpful tips for talking with your child about ADHD testing, so you’ll both be prepared for the process.
What Does ADHD Testing Involve?
The diagnosing process for ADHD involves several different evaluation methods.
You’ll undergo several detailed interviews with experts who will be able to decipher and assess your answers.
You’ll also work through activities that can be compared on rating scales.
ADHD can look slightly different from person to person. So, not rushing the process is essential to not only getting the right diagnosis but to developing a management plan that works for you.
Because ADHD can look different, the diagnosing process might also take time to rule out other potential conditions.
Again, this is an effort to make sure you get the right treatment plan.
Testing might take longer for children than adults.
Every situation is different, but the evaluator must gather as much information as possible before making a diagnosis.
That’s why they can’t rush the process.
No matter who is being tested, they can expect multiple sessions with a professional before receiving a diagnosis.
Gathering Information
In addition to on-site assessments, the tester should gather information from outside sources.
They can use that information as background or a starting point.
If you’re trying to help your child determine if they have ADHD, information from caregivers, teachers, and parents can be a big help.
Different perspectives give the tester a better snapshot of the child’s life and how symptoms present themselves in various settings.
What Do Professionals Look For?
Another reason testing can take time is that providers look for a few key things before they make an official diagnosis.
They might look for a certain number of symptoms (typically six in children and five in adults) that have lasted for at least six months.
These symptoms include hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.
They also look for behavioral issues in more than one setting, which is why it can be helpful to have information from teachers or other caregivers for children.
Finally, providers will work to determine that the symptoms they’re seeing don’t stem from another condition.
ADHD symptoms can present themselves in a way that might sometimes be linked to mental health issues like anxiety or depression.
A correct diagnosis is essential to make sure someone isn’t getting the wrong kind of treatment or starting a medication that’s unnecessary.
What Happens After a Diagnosis?
Even after several weeks of testing, you might not receive an official diagnosis right away.
Work with your doctor or provider to stay as informed as possible about the results of your assessments.
If you or your child receive a diagnosis, creating a treatment and management plan with a professional you trust is important.
Many people with ADHD benefit from a combination of medication and therapy; however, each case is unique.
Finding management tools that help you or your child with specific areas of trouble will make a big difference.
It might seem like diagnosing ADHD takes a long time.
However, getting a correct diagnosis is essential for kids and adults alike.
Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or you’re showing symptoms and want to undergo an assessment, we can help you take that step.