When To Take An ADHD Screening Test

Parents concerned that their children are displaying symptoms of ADHD often look for resources that will help them identify specific signs and, if necessary, seek further testing, clinical evaluation, and treatment.

If you are concerned that your child is living with ADHD, you may also wonder whether you live with the disorder. Experts agree that genetics are a primary contributor to the development of ADHD; and research shows that symptoms continue into adulthood for around 60% of people who experience it in childhood. So, if your child is living with ADHD, there is a chance you may be, as well. Though a diagnosis can only be provided following a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, screening tests can give you a better idea of whether your or your child’s symptoms indicate the existence of ADHD. Below we’re going to discuss the symptoms of ADHD and how a screening test can help you learn more about the degree to which they may be affecting you. 

What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

ADHD is thought to be mostly caused by genetics, with a heritability of nearly 90% by some estimates. Brain function and structure are thought to play important roles in ADHD’s etiology, and environmental factors—such as prenatal smoking, exposure to toxins, and head injuries—have also been implicated in its development. 

An estimated 9% of children and 4.4% of adults live with ADHD in the United States. Boys are more commonly diagnosed with the disorder than girls, with a national prevalence of 13% and 6%, respectively.   

An ADHD diagnosis will typically be provided when an individual meets the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as outlined by the American Psychiatric Association. These criteria can be fulfilled by the existence of five or more (for adults) or six or more (for children and adolescents) symptoms of either inattentive type or hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD. 

Identifying ADHD symptoms

ADHD can present significant challenges in the life of an individual experiencing it, including struggles with work, school, relationships, emotional and mental health, and even physical health. And in many cases, it is a lifelong disorder. So, early detection can play a crucial role in its successful management. 

If you notice that your child talks excessively, makes careless mistakes, loses things frequently, struggles to finish schoolwork or stay focused on tasks, or dislikes sharing personal belongings, they may be living with undiagnosed ADHD. Sometimes, the symptoms of ADHD are confused with those of learning disabilities such as dyslexia. If your child demonstrates symptoms similar to those listed above, it can be beneficial to meet with a medical professional to get a proper diagnosis.

Studies have found that people with undiagnosed ADHD have more trouble achieving success in school than those with diagnosed ADHD. There is also evidence that treating ADHD in childhood can help the individual avoid comorbidities and the potential negative social effects of the disorder. 

Early detection can help a person with ADHD learn coping techniques they can utilize in scholastic and social settings. An individual who is treated from a young age may avoid self-esteem concerns and elevated stress levels, which have been linked to undiagnosed ADHD. And as the individual transitions into adulthood, understanding how specific symptoms affect day-to-day life can help them better organize their life and manage tasks. Below, we’re going to discuss how you can evaluate yourself or your child to increase the chances of early detection. 

Finding an evaluation

There are many valuable resources available to you when you want to better understand the likelihood that you or your child is living with ADHD. It is important to remember, though, that a single test or self-evaluation is not meant to diagnose you, only to give you a better idea of whether your symptoms might signal the existence of the disorder. 

The NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scales are a series of questionnaires that parents can fill out and score on their own to determine whether to seek professional care. This online test includes a screener that can be filled out by your child’s teacher, which can provide further clarity. There are also resources and specific tests for children that can be completed online, such as the  and symptom test provided by ADDitude, the ADHD-focused magazine. 

When searching online for ADHD self-assessments, look for those provided by reputable sites and adapted from accepted screening resources (e.g., the DSM, the ASRS). Often this information will be cited at the beginning or end of the evaluation. While you can often receive a score, or tally a score yourself, for these evaluations, a healthcare professional will usually be able to interpret the results in a more comprehensive manner. 

Further support for ADHD

If a screening test indicates that you or your child may be living with ADHD, or you otherwise believe it is a possibility, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a medical or mental health professional. Your child’s doctor can review the results of the self-assessment and conduct evaluations of their own, including a physical examination, a medical history review, and hearing and vision tests. This will help them eliminate other possible causes with similar symptoms and better diagnose ADHD. 

It can also help to talk to teachers, relatives, and other people who may have firsthand knowledge of how your child acts during play activities, class time, and leisure activities. They can provide insights into behavior, such as trouble organizing tasks, struggling to remain seated at school, or avoiding peers during other activities, that may signal the existence of ADHD. Researching information on ADHD from reputable sources can also help you learn more about the disorder and how it can manifest. 

How to manage symptoms

Medication is generally considered the first-line treatment for ADHD and is often utilized in conjunction with psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. The two main types of ADHD medication are stimulants and non-stimulants, both of which have been used safely for decades. Medication has been shown to effectively reduce symptoms in up to 70% of adults and 80% of children. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication. 

Psychotherapy is also frequently used to help individuals address certain behaviors and emotions presented by ADHD. When treating children, therapy often involves teaching parents and teachers how to provide positive feedback for desired behavior.

Adults with ADHD can work with therapists to develop strategies that allow for a more structured and organized lifestyle. Therapy can also help individuals address the emotional challenges that often accompany ADHD, including symptoms of comorbid mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.  

Lifestyle changes have also been found to decrease symptoms of ADHD successfully in children and adults. Eating a balanced diet, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and exercising regularly can improve symptoms and make management easier. 

Navigating ADHD with an online mental health professional

If you are living with ADHD or are caring for a child who has the disorder, online therapy can help you learn management strategies and address your emotional well-being. With an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can work with a therapist remotely, which can be helpful if you are a busy parent, or if you’re not comfortable discussing your symptoms in person. And if ADHD causes you to struggle managing your time, online therapy offers flexible scheduling and frequent appointment reminders.