I suspect my child is having trouble staying focused - can I get him/her tested for attention issues?

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is difficult to diagnose because it often shares or mimics the symptoms of other disorders. Finding a qualified medical practitioner, preferably one that specializes in ADD, ADHD, and related disorders, is extremely important. Qualified medical practitioners would include developmental pediatricians, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists. Proper diagnosis is essential in determining the correct treatment plan.

 

Some organizations that will be able to help you in better understanding ADD/ADHD are Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) www.chadd.org and Attention Deficit Disorders Association Southern Region (ADDA-SR) www.adda-sr.org. There are numerous books that can be found under "Book Lists" in the Parent Resource section of this website. There is also a magazine that we highly recommend covering all aspects of ADD/ADHD called ADDitude - www.additudemag.com.