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How to diagnose ADD

ADD, or ADHD with predominantly inattentive presentation, is often diagnosed late, because it does not disrupt daily life. However, a diagnosis makes it possible to put the necessary support in place. Here is how the process works. Knowing the steps helps you approach the process more calmly.

The first point of contact

The GP, the paediatrician or the school doctor are often the first points of contact. They listen to your concerns, examine the child and refer you on if needed. Do not hesitate to share all your observations.

To go further, read our article ADHD: the role of the GP.

The doctor who makes the diagnosis

The diagnosis is made by a doctor trained in ADHD: child psychiatrist, paediatric neurologist, paediatrician or psychiatrist depending on age. The HAS recommendations of 2024 set out the role of each. Waiting times for access can be long.

We cover this point in detail in Who makes the diagnosis of ADHD.

The interviews

The doctor takes the child’s history, their development, and their difficulties at home and at school. They talk with the child and the parents. Bring school reports and your observations.

This topic is covered in our page The ADHD assessment: how it works.

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The questionnaires

Parents and the teacher complete questionnaires about attention, restlessness and impulsivity. These combined perspectives are essential for ADD, which is often not very visible. The questionnaires help make the difficulties more objective.

You will find more details in the article ADHD screening questionnaire.

Additional assessments

A neuropsychological assessment can evaluate attention, executive functions and intellectual abilities. Other assessments may look for associated disorders, such as a dys disorder. These assessments also help to tailor the adjustments.

Our article Neuropsychological assessment and ADHD complements this advice.

Ruling out other causes

The doctor checks that the difficulties are not better explained by another cause: a vision or hearing problem, a sleep disorder, anxiety, depression, or family difficulties. This step is essential for an accurate diagnosis.

To find out more, see ADHD and anxiety.

After the diagnosis

The diagnosis opens the way to appropriate support: explanations, school adjustments, parent guidance, and sometimes treatment. The support is tailored to each child.

The article Management of ADD without hyperactivity looks at this question in detail.

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Frequently asked questions

Who diagnoses ADD ?

A doctor trained in ADHD, such as a child psychiatrist or a paediatric neurologist. The GP refers you on.

How is the diagnosis made ?

Through interviews, questionnaires and sometimes additional assessments. A trained doctor makes the diagnosis.

Is a neuropsychological assessment compulsory ?

No, but it can complete the evaluation. Other causes are looked for.

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