ADD testing is a very important part of ADHD treatment. ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, affects roughly 6.1 million children and young adults in the U.S. The condition significantly affects a child's ability to learn as well as their social interactions with other students and teachers.

Why Should You Consider ADD Evaluations?

ADD testing is important for determining whether your child has ADHD or not. The evaluations may be able to diagnose ADHD early on, allowing patients to get help before their ADHD impacts their lives.

Here are the three main benefits of ADD testing:

1. ADHD Testing Provides Accurate Diagnosis

ADD testing can help diagnose ADHD and separate it from other problems that display symptoms, such as learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or anxiety. Since ADHD cannot be diagnosed through observation alone, patients complete a psychological assessment, including ADHD questionnaires and neuropsychological tests. The evaluations provide a more accurate ADHD diagnosis by assessing the patient's strengths and weaknesses. Depending on the ADHD test used, the results can also determine whether or not ADHD medication will be effective for treating the condition.

2. ADHD Treatment Can Begin Earlier

Treatment for ADHD typically involves medication and therapy, although it isn't always simple. ADD testing can give those who suspect their children might have ADHD a way to find out as early as possible, which gives them the chance to be proactive about treatment. Early treatment can lower ADHD's effects on your child's educational achievement, relationships, and job performance.

3. Early Treatment May Improve School Performance

Treatment for ADHD can make a huge impact on school performance. ADD testing can help parents and teachers determine if ADHD is affecting grades, test scores, or homework completion, making it possible to develop a comprehensive treatment plan before the condition takes its toll in these areas.

When Do You Consider ADD Evaluations?

ADHD symptoms are usually recognized when a child begins school but ADD testing can be done sooner if the symptoms start to manifest at a younger age. Typically, ADHD symptoms become more pronounced during early childhood and continue into adulthood if the condition is left untreated.

As a parent, you can watch for various symptoms, such as trouble focusing on tasks, impulsivity, restlessness, lack of attention to detail, fidgeting, and mood swings. If the symptoms are not evident, you should contact a doctor or psychiatrist experienced with ADHD treatment for testing. Professional ADD testing can help identify ADHD symptoms in a young child who is developmentally not able to communicate them verbally.

The Takeaway

ADD testing is very important when you feel your child cannot concentrate or stay focused for extended periods of time. The testing also helps determine what type of ADHD your child may have and the best way to treat it. For more information regarding ADD evaluations, contact a counseling service.