Getting an ADHD assessment: what to expect and how to prepare

If you suspect your child may have ADHD, an assessment is the way to get clarity. It can feel daunting, so knowing what to expect helps. This is a general overview; the exact process varies by clinic and country, and your clinician will guide you.

Who can assess

In India and elsewhere, assessments are typically carried out by a paediatrician, child and adolescent psychiatrist or clinical psychologist, sometimes with a team including educational specialists and occupational therapists. Ask for someone with experience in children's neurodevelopment.

What usually happens

• A detailed history. Questions about pregnancy, development, health, family history, behaviour at home and school, friendships, sleep and mood.
• Rating scales and questionnaires filled in by parents and teachers.
• Observation and conversation with the child.
• Checks for other explanations, such as hearing or vision difficulties, anxiety, learning difficulties or sleep problems.
• Sometimes cognitive or educational testing, if a learning difficulty is suspected.

A diagnosis is based on the pattern of difficulties over time and across settings, not on a single test or a quick chat.

How to prepare

• Write down specifics. Examples of concerns, how long they have happened and where.
• Collect school reports, teacher comments and past assessments.
• Ask the teacher to complete forms if requested.
• Note strengths too. The clinician needs the full picture.
• Prepare your child. Explain that the visit is to understand how to help school feel easier, not because they are in trouble.

Questions to ask

• What did you find, and how sure are you?
• Are there other conditions to consider?
• What supports do you recommend at home and school?
• What are the options, including benefits and risks?
• When should we review?

After the assessment

A diagnosis, or a conclusion that ADHD is not present, gives a starting point. Share relevant parts with the school, ask about available supports and keep in touch with the clinician.

Be wary of shortcuts

Online quizzes and apps cannot diagnose ADHD. Beware of anyone offering instant diagnoses or treatments without a proper evaluation.

ZEKO does not diagnose, and you do not need a diagnosis to use it.