Diagnosing Children with ADHD

With over 14 years of experience in psychiatry, Dr. Carlo Carandang has an in-depth understanding of the needs of adults and children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Throughout his career, Dr. Carlo Carandang has kept up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the diagnosis and treatment of this neurodevelopmental disorder. Although ADHD begins in childhood, it can continue through the teen years and into adulthood. In the United States, approximately 4.1 percent of adults and 9 percent of children ages 13-18 are affected with ADHD. Boys are more likely than girls to be diagnosed with the disorder, and the number of diagnoses is growing rapidly. Common signs and symptoms of ADHD include hyperactiveness, inability to concentrate, and impulsiveness. While most children display these behaviors occasionally, those with ADHD exhibit more severe symptoms that last for six months or more. To ensure that children are not misdiagnosed, mental health professionals usually examine their school records and interview their family members as part of the evaluation process.