ADHD Screening

What is ADHD screening?

ADHD screening, also called an ADHD test, helps find out if you or your child has ADHD. ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It used to be called ADD (attention-deficit disorder).

ADHD is a behavioural disorder that makes it hard for someone to sit still, pay attention, and focus on tasks. People with ADHD may also be easily distracted and/or act without thinking.

ADHD affects millions of children and often lasts into adulthood. Until their own children are diagnosed, many adults don’t realize symptoms they’ve had since childhood may be related to ADHD.

There are three main types of ADHD:

• Mostly Impulsive-Hyperactive. People with this type of ADHD usually have symptoms of both impulsivity and hyperactivity. Impulsivity means acting without thinking about the consequences. It also means a desire for immediate rewards. Hyperactivity means difficulty sitting still. A hyperactive person fidgets and moves about constantly. It can also mean the person talks nonstop.
• Mostly Inattentive. People with this type of ADHD have trouble paying attention and are easily distracted.
• Combined. This is the most common type of ADHD. Symptoms include a combination of impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattentiveness.

ADHD is more common in boys than girls. Boys with ADHD are also more likely to have impulsive-hyperactive or the combined type of ADHD, rather than inattentive ADHD.

While there is no cure for ADHD, treatments can help reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning. ADHD treatment often includes medicine, lifestyle changes, and/or behavioural therapy.

Other names: ADHD test

What is it used for?

ADHD screening is used to diagnose ADHD. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.