https://www.iampsychiatry.com/private-adhd-assessment Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD Adults are often not diagnosed until they are experiencing significant issues at work, home or at school. Health care providers follow the diagnostic criteria set out in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5). A thorough evaluation will include ADHD symptom lists and standardized scales for assessing behavior. Health professionals inquire about the family's history and examine the school records from the past. Symptoms ADHD symptoms can affect the daily routine of a person regardless of whether at home, school or work. They can cause issues in relationships and careers, financial problems or even a driver's licence. They can also trigger emotional distress. It is common for people to struggle concentrating or staying organised occasionally. However when the issue gets more severe and affects daily functioning, a healthcare specialist may be able to identify ADHD. To determine if someone is diagnosed with ADHD the health professional must assess the person in at minimum two different environments, such as home and school or workplace and social settings. They must observe the person in these settings for a minimum of six months and determine that the symptoms are significantly hindering their ability to function. The symptoms must also be present prior to the age of 12 years old. Children who meet diagnostic criteria for hyperactivity/impulsivity or inattentive type of ADHD usually are fidgety, talkative and have excess energy that keeps them from sitting still. They are often in a hurry to finish their work and often interrupt or disturb others. Children with inattention ADHD have difficulty following instructions and staying focused or sitting still. They are often distracted or snoozing. They are more likely to be overlooked and miss out on learning opportunities, particularly in primary scho