Symptoms and Diagnosis Deciding if a child has ADHD is a
several-step process. There is no single test to diagnose ADHD,
and many other problems, like anxiety, depression, and certain
types of learning disabilities, can have similar symptoms. The
American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical
Manual-IV, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) is used by mental health
professionals to help diagnose ADHD. This diagnostic standard
helps ensure that people are appropriately diagnosed and treated
for ADHD. Using the same standard across communities will help
determine the prevalence and public health impact of ADHD. DSM-
IV Criteria for ADHD I. Either A or B: - Six or more of the
following symptoms of inattention have been present for at least
6 months to a point that is inappropriate for developmental
level: - Often does not give close attention to details or makes
careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities. -
Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.
- Often does not seem t