Causes, diagnosis and testing
ADHD

What causes ADHD?

Although the exact causes of ADHD are not clear, some factors may possibly have a role, according to the World Health Organisation.

These include:

Genetics – ADHD frequently runs in families
Having a significant traumatic experience as a child
Being born prematurely
Brain injury
Exposure to environmental toxins, such as high levels of lead, at a young age
The mother smoking, using alcohol or having extreme stress during pregnancy

Despite some myths surrounding ADHD, there is no evidence that it is caused by any of the following:

Eating too much sugar
Food additives
Allergies
Immunisations

Diagnosis and testing

Most cases of ADHD are diagnosed in childhood, but it’s possible to be diagnosed as an adult. ADHD can’t develop for the first time in adults, but you may have had it as a child and not been diagnosed.

If you think your child or yourself may have ADHD, you should first contact your doctor to discuss your concerns and seek a referral. Your doctor will refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist or paediatrician for assessment.

There are no tests for ADHD. Instead, evaluators use a variety of tools to determine if someone has ADHD. Questionnaires about various aspects of behaviour and development can help doctors and psychologists make the diagnosis. A physical examination and sometimes various blood and other tests to rule out other disorders are also done.

Did you know?

You do not “grow out of” ADHD, but learning management strategies can help you enjoy a full life.