ADHD Testing in Salem, NH

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is tested by an evaluation conducted by a mental health professional. Your healthcare provider will ask you a series of questions, collect your answers, and determine if you meet the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

The diagnostic criteria for an official ADHD diagnosis slightly varies depending on if you have the inattentive type or hyperactive type of ADHD. Several symptoms need to be present before the age of 12 that reduce your inability to function on a day-to-day basis.

Criteria for ADHD inattentive type include:

– At least 6 symptoms present
– Symptoms present for six months or longer
– Disregard for details
– Inability to focus
– Difficulty organizing
– Avoids long term tasks
– Can’t follow through on tasks
– Forgetfulness
– Distractible
– Often loses things
– Difficulty listening to others

Criteria for ADHD hyperactive type include:

– At least 6 symptoms present
– Symptoms present for six months or longer
– Fidgeting
– Frequently interrupts
– Troubles waiting for turn to speak and waiting in lines
– Excessive talking
– Can’t sit still and engage in calm activities without disrupting
– Restlessness in inappropriate situations
– Ignores instructions

Depending on the severity of your ADHD, you may qualify for government aid and tax credits. Your ADHD symptoms can range from mild, moderate, to severe.

Although there is no one single test for ADHD, you must meet the above criteria for an official diagnosis. Screening tests for ADHD will require a physical examination and testing for other mental health conditions. The process will require interviews with parents, siblings, other relatives, and the patient. Your psychiatric specialist will take into account your ability to function, mood changes, behaviors, productivity, and lifestyle.

ADHD is most often diagnosed from the age of 4 to 16. ADHD in women is often diagnosed later in life compared to ADHD in men. This is because women tend to display symptoms a little bit differently than men. Women with ADHD often get other diagnoses first such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.

ADHD symptoms are most active during elementary school. This is why early treatment is essential in learning how to manage symptoms at a young age. The key to treating ADHD early is helping kids understand what strengths can come with mental health conditions. Children with ADHD may have a hard time doing simple tasks, but they can also use their hyperfocus, resilience, conversational skills, high energy, and creativity for good! The right treatment can reduce negative side effects and increase the gifts that come with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

If you have any additional questions or general inquiries about ADHD in Salem, NH, contact Advanced Psych Care PLLC. We would be more than willing to provide you with the information needed to conquer your ADHD. Our team can help with behavioral therapy, family therapy, parenting, social skills training, support groups, psychotherapy, and medication management. We can connect you with the right support systems you, your child, or your family needs. The mental health professionals at Advanced Psych Care PLLC look forward to helping you through your journey of ADHD diagnosis, treatment, and long term recovery.

For more information regarding our services, call us. We serve patients from Salem NH, Windham NH, Atkinson NH, Plaistow NH, Pelham NH, Hampstead NH, Danville, NH and Derry NH.