NEURODIVERSITY PRESENTATIONS FOR SCHOOLS

ADHD Testing Sydney

Getting Diagnosed with ADHD

ADHD is officially diagnosed using the criteria outlined in the DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision). This can feel frustrating if you have come across ADHD-related content on platforms like TikTok and found it relatable. Because much of what is popular on social media does not align with the official diagnostic criteria in the DSM.

What are the Criteria for Diagnosis of ADHD?

According to the current DSM, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning or development. Symptoms must be present across multiple settings – such as home, work, or school – and begin before the age of 12.

ADHD is classified into three main presentations based on symptom patterns:

1. Predominantly Inattentive Presentation
2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
3. Combined Presentation

Symptoms of ADHD

Here is a summary of the key symptoms and diagnostic criteria for ADHD:

Inattention Symptoms (6 or more for children, 5 or more for adolescents/adults)

1. Fails to pay close attention to details or makes careless mistakes.
2. Struggles to sustain attention in tasks or activities (e.g., lectures, conversations).
3. Often seems not to listen when spoken to directly.
4. Frequently fails to follow through on instructions and does not finish tasks.
5. Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
6. Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort (e.g., homework, reports).
7. Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g., keys, phones).
8. Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli (or unrelated thoughts in adults).
9. Frequently forgetful in daily activities (e.g., paying bills, keeping appointments).

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms (6 or more for children, 5 or more for adolescents/adults)

1. Fidgets with hands or feet, or squirms in seat.
2. Often leaves seat in situations where remaining seated is expected.
3. Runs about or climbs in inappropriate situations (feels restless in adults).
4. Unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly.
5. Often “on the go,” acting as if “driven by a motor.”
6. Talks excessively.
7. Blurts out answers before a question is completed.
8. Has difficulty waiting their turn.
9. Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).

The most common diagnosis is often a combined presentation. That means meeting the criteria for both an inattentive presentation and a hyperactive-impulsive presentation. If you take a look at the hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, it’s quite easy to see why young boys were often diagnosed more often than girls, and prevalence studies show us there are many more boys with ADHD diagnoses than girls.

ADHD testing and diagnosis in Sydney

ADHD is a complex and multifaceted neurodevelopmental condition that manifests differently for everyone. While social media has helped to raise awareness and reduce stigma, it is essential to balance information with evidence-based understanding and appreciation of the diverse experiences of those with ADHD.

Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis of ADHD for your child, wondering about diagnosis of ADHD for an adult, navigating daily challenges, or embracing your ADHD neurotype, acknowledging the condition’s unique strengths and struggles is key to meaningful support.

If you’d like to learn more about ADHD, its symptoms, or strategies for managing it, feel free to explore the resources on this site, join my online ADHD programs, or reach out for professional guidance.

Anxiety, ADHD, Neurodiversity and Mental Wellbeing

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