Neurodiversity: ADD/ADHD

Where are you on a scale from 1 (rarely)  to 10 (always) for these attributes?

Inattentive - difficulty staying engaged with boring tasks;
difficulty with planning / organizing / follow-through

Hyperactivity - excessive energy (physical and mental)

Impulsivity - acting before thinking about consequences

There is no specific ADHD test. Screening usually involves several steps, including:

• A physical exam to find out if a different type of disorder is causing symptoms.
• An interview. You or your child will be asked about behavior and activity level.

The following tests are designed specifically for children:

• Interviews or questionnaires with people who interact regularly with your child. These may include family members, teachers, coaches, and babysitters.
• Behavioral tests. These are written tests designed to measure a child's behavior compared with the behavior of other children the same age.
• Psychological tests. These tests measure thinking and intelligence.

EXCERPT: Therapy and medication are the most effective treatments for ADHD. Other strategies may help manage symptoms:

• Eat, exercise, and sleep regularly. Turn off screens at least 1 hour before bedtime; get 7 and 9 hours of sleep every night.
• Prioritize time-sensitive tasks and write down everything: assignments, messages, appointments, and important thoughts.
• Connect with supportive people, (avoid people who are not willing to understand that ADHD is a real thing.)
• Take medications as directed, and avoid use of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs.