If you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD, you may check the rating scale (click for adult self assessment / parents evaluation test) for an overall indication.You should always seek professional assessment to confirm diagnosis. You may go to a psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, pediatrician, or family physician who is experienced in assessing and managing ADHD and coexisting conditions, such as anxiety or depression.
Among the professionals, child psychiatrists should have most experiences in ADHD. Developmental pediatricians are also experienced in this area. The main difference is that the latter do not treat complicated psychiatric conditions, such as severe bipolar disorder, major depression or psychotic disorders.
Among psychologists, you may also approach neuropsychologists, educational psychologists, clinical psychologists for assessment and behavioral management. They do not prescribe medication.
Other common coexisting conditions such as learning disabilities, Asperger syndrome or autism, fine motor or gross motor dis-coordination, visual or auditory processing disorders may involve different professionals such as learning specialists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, audiologists, child psychologists, etc.
Referrals are best made by an experienced professional to prevent unnecessary referral and to ensure monitoring of the therapeutic outcome.
Often, school teachers who have knowledge of ADHD may be the first one to spot the possibility of ADHD in your child. They have seen many children of the same age. It is therefore easier for them to pinpoint when a child’s learning or behavior is out of line.
