ADHD in children: indications and process of diagnosis

ADHD is one of the most common disorders in childhood. However, hyperactivity alone is not an indication of ADHD. This is how a professional diagnosis works.

Children have a strong urge to move and often cannot be contained. They also often seem very self-absorbed. This is both completely healthy and normal. However, some children exhibit extreme fidgeting or excessive daydreaming, which hinders their daily lives. This is often evident in the early years of school. The prevalence of ADHD in Switzerland, comparable to Germany, is approximately 5%. Thus, on average, one child in a class of 20 is affected.

ADHD: Conspicuousness of symptoms is crucial
The three main symptoms of ADHD are attention deficit disorder, impulsivity, and hyperactivity . These symptoms are much more pronounced than in children of the same age and can persist into adulthood. This can potentially impair academic or, later, professional performance. Furthermore, ADHD can cause social problems. Early detection of the disorder is therefore important , especially if the child is already clearly suffering from their "otherness" (possibly social isolation, poor grades, teachers' comments on behavior, etc.).

ADHD diagnosis: Many impressions that create a picture
Professional organizations have developed guidelines to assist examiners in diagnosing of ADHD . Furthermore , the examiners adhere to the criteria in the DSM-IV and ICD-10 . An ADHD diagnosis typically requires multiple sessions and may include the following components :

- Assessment interview: This interview covers both the child 's or adolescent's current ADHD symptoms and other abnormalities or problems that occur in the family , at daycare / school , and during leisure activities . The assessment interview forms the core of the ADHD assessment and may take several sessions.

- Questionnaires: In the treatment of ADHD , questionnaires are often used for parents, caregivers, teachers , and older children and adolescents themselves . These questionnaires can provide important information in addition to the initial interview . They primarily ask about ADHD symptoms and other behavioral problems, but can also assess the child 's or adolescent's strengths .

- Behavioral observation: Here, the examiner can gain a direct impression of the child or adolescent by observing their behavior in the examination situation. With children , play situations are often introduced to help the examiner establish a good rapport .

- Psychological testing: Comprehensive ADHD examinations use various tests to check the child's or adolescent's level of development, intelligence, individual skills (such as reading, writing or arithmetic) or the ability to concentrate and impulsivity.

- Physical examination: Every ADHD diagnosis includes a physical examination, including a visual and hearing assessment of the child or adolescent, as well as a brief neurological examination. The goal is to rule out possible physical causes of ADHD symptoms.

Because ADHD symptoms vary so much across developmental stages and often do not all occur together, the disorder often goes undiagnosed for a long time. However, an ADHD diagnosis can be a great help and relief for both children and their parents. It provides an explanation for the numerous challenges faced by ADHD children and their parents.