When it comes to adhd testing you need to understand that there is no single test

When you make the decision to take your child for adhd testing you should know what to expect so that you can prepare not only yourself but your child as well. The assessment procedure is not achieved quickly and will involve a number of experts so that a reliable and accurate diagnosis can be made. Essentially the whole process is about observing the child's behavior in different settings to note whether the symptoms of ADHD are present as well as their severity. However this process is also about ruling out other factors that could be the cause of the symptoms such as a recent upheaval in the child's life. For example if the child has recently switched schools or if there has been a death in the family this can account for apparently ADHD behavior and symptoms. Likewise medical issues could also be responsible and these would include such concerns as thyroid problems or even an inner ear infection. In truth adhd testing is about eliminating all other possible factors that can explain the presence of the ADHD symptoms so that an accurate diagnosis can be made.

Many experts are of the opinion that no child younger than the age of six years should be placed on any type of ADHD medication for the treatment of the disorder and that behavior therapy is more advisable. According to the Academy of Pediatrics only children older than six should be medicated as part of the treatment program. Unfortunately there have been a number of instances where children have been miss-diagnosed and then medicated and so parents owe it to themselves and to their children to find out as much as they can about the disorder. Not only that but they also need to familiarize themselves with the treatment options that are available so that they are able to make informed decisions about the treatment that their child is subjected to.

If you suspect that your child is ADHD you need to understand that they must be assessed by a suitably qualified and experienced mental health expert in order to establish whether they are ADHD or not. Failing to address the issue will only serve to cause continued problems in the child's life as well as negatively impact their academic and social lives. This is not a disorder that can be outgrown and symptoms persist through the teenage years and on into the adult years.

Most people undergo adhd testing while they are still rather young because it is when the child begins school that the symptoms can become much more easier and clearer to identify. Children with ADHD do not respond well to the routine of school, or to the discipline, and therefore the symptoms become far more noticeable. Children younger than the age of five or six are more difficult to diagnose simply because the symptoms of ADHD are usually evident in normal pre-school development anyway. Most younger children are somewhat inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive but this does not necessarily mean that they have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder!  However in younger children especially severe hyperactivity might be indicative of autism and the child should see a professional. Of course it not only children who can be diagnosed with ADHD as both teenagers as well as adults can also be diagnosed.

Once the diagnosis has been made and has followed all the diagnostic criteria so that the diagnosis is an accurate one the specialist concerned will then set up a treatment plan. ADHD treatment can include medication, behavioral therapy as well as psychotherapy and educational approaches. Having assessed the child the specialist should then work with you as well as the child's educators as part of the treatment process. This is also when you as the parent need to discuss alternative treatments, such as homeopathic remedies, with the specialist as well outline your reasons for choosing the treatment approach that you are inclined toward.