The diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is made while referring to the emotional state and identifying accompanying mental illness. If necessary, a computerized test, MOXO, can be conducted at the clinic.
Examining possible ADHD is an essential part of psychiatric assessment. When the existence of ADHD is suspected, the doctor will recommend further investigation. This may include filling out Connors' questionnaires by the teacher and parents and receiving additional information from the school counselor. Sometimes the child will be referred to a computerized test such as Moxo without medication and after giving Ritalin. If necessary, the child will also be referred to a didactic testing, to check for learning disabilities.
Possible reasons for referral
Your child was recently diagnosed by a psychologist and the existence of an attention disorder was suspected
Attention deficit disorder is a common phenomenon, estimated at 5-10% of the total population of school-aged children. Today it is known that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder does not go away in most cases, and it will accompany the majority of those with it even in adolescence and adulthood. This is a significant disorder, which in the absence of treatment can cause severe damage to a person's functioning and health, and is also accompanied by significant co-morbidity, mainly in the behavioral and mental spheres. Early and correct diagnosis of the disorder is essential.
Your child has difficulty organizing, difficulty concentrating and being attentive in lessons, impulsive and not emotionally regulated
The symptoms may indicate the existence of ADHD but can be caused by a variety of emotional and mental disorders including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and many other conditions. In order to establish a diagnosis, a comprehensive medical evaluation is required, including a psychiatric examination, a general medical examination, filling out questionnaires by parents and teachers, and more.
It is worthwhile to examine the possibility of ADHD when your child's functioning is impaired as a result of persistent difficulty concentrating for a long time, short attention span, difficulty sitting still for a long time, impulsivity, difficulty organizing, procrastination and avoiding tasks that require continuous mental effort, with or without hyperactivity. Also, if a didactic diagnosis was conducted and there is a suspicion of the existence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a diagnosis should be made.
When should you contact a psychiatrist for a diagnosis of ADHD?
A complete psychiatric examination is an essential part of any evaluation for the diagnosis of ADHD, therefore the consent of both parents is required.
We are divorced parents. Is the consent of both of us is required if only a diagnosis of ADHD is suspected and a full psychiatric assessment is not required?
Frequently asked questions
Is an essential part of any psychiatric assessment