Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can significantly affect an individual's daily functioning. Diagnosing ADHD typically involves a comprehensive evaluation using interviews and questionnaires. The questions asked aim to assess behavioral patterns, focus levels, impulsivity habits, and other key indicators of ADHD. Here are some of the questions you may be asked during ADHD testing:
Have You Noticed Any Symptoms of ADHD?
Therapists may inquire about current and past symptoms, such as problems with inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Many healthcare providers use ADHD rating scales to measure these symptoms. During the session, the therapist may ask about any cases of fidgeting or squirming with your hands or feet when sitting for an extended period. You can expect questions about when and how symptoms started and how they have changed with time.
What Is Your Medical and Family History?
ADHD has been shown to have a genetic component. Telling the therapist about close family members, such as parents or siblings, who have been diagnosed with ADHD may help with your ADHD testing process. You can discuss when they were diagnosed and what treatment options have worked for them. Let the therapist know about any existing medical conditions. This can help them avoid prescribing you medicine that may react with your current medications or health conditions.
What Is Your School and Work History?
Symptoms of ADHD may become apparent when trying to focus in structured environments like school and work. Difficulties with concentration, organization, and completing tasks at school or work can help identify ADHD. Tell your mental health provider how often you have trouble completing or focusing on tasks and projects. You may also talk about past achievements and challenges that you feel have been affected by potential ADHD symptoms.
What Is Your Developmental History?
You may also talk about your developmental milestones, including early childhood behaviors and academic performance. Early childhood behaviors can include when you first spoke, walked, or reached other developmental markers. Knowing about your developmental history may help therapists identify potential patterns of ADHD symptoms.
What Are Your Social and Behavioral Functions Like?
The therapist may ask this question to better understand how your ADHD symptoms have impacted your interactions with others and daily life. They may ask how you relate with your peers, family members, and others at special events or group gatherings. You can tell the mental health specialist about your typical reactions to different stressors and about any strategies you have embraced to manage them. Discussing how you handle conflicts and disagreements may also be beneficial. Each of these areas of social and behavioral functioning can be affected by ADHD symptoms like excessing talking and interrupting conversations.
What Emotions Do You Experience, and How Do You Deal With Them?
The therapist may inquire about your emotional well-being and if you're experiencing any anxiety, mood swings, or other conditions. Share how often you feel anxious, stressed, sad, irritable, or moody. You can also share how frequently you experience challenges with controlling your emotional reactions at times. Frequent difficulties with emotions can be a symptom of ADHD.
How Long Have You Had ADHD Symptoms?
Talking about the duration and severity of your symptoms can help the therapist distinguish ADHD from other possible conditions, like hearing problems or cognitive disabilities. Such information can help in confirming that you receive the most accurate and appropriate treatment for your condition. If your symptoms have been present for a long period and are severe, it may be an indication you need more thorough treatment.
Start Your ADHD Testing Today
If you suspect you or a loved one might have ADHD, consider scheduling ADHD testing with an experienced mental health professional. A professional therapist can help identify ADHD symptoms, provide a diagnosis, and offer suitable treatment options. Schedule your ADHD testing appointment today.