ADD & ADHD Health Center

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Adults with untreated ADHD are at an increased risk of abusing drugs or alcohol. If an adult is suspected of having or is diagnosed with ADHD, he or she may also be screened for alcohol and drug abuse.

Early Detection

The American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines recommend that doctors ask parents about behavior and school performance during regularly scheduled well-child visits. This helps identify early signs of ADHD. If you are concerned about how your child's temperament, learning skills, or behavior is developing, talk with your doctor during your next visit.

Before meeting with your doctor, think about at what age your child's symptoms began. Also, you and other caregivers should record when the behavior occurs and how long it lasts. An important component of evaluation for ADHD is considering the kinds of problems that result from the behaviors and to what extent they affect academic performance and social behavior.

Some adults do not recognize their own symptoms of ADHD until their child is diagnosed with the condition. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD or you think you have symptoms, talk with your doctor about being screened for ADHD.