ADHD is diagnosed through a clinical evaluation rather than a single definitive test. Anxiety, depression, sleep problems and other conditions can overlap with attention symptoms or occur alongside ADHD. Reviewing the full history helps your provider consider these possibilities.
Parents can prepare examples from home and school, previous assessments and a medication list. Ask what input the provider may need from caregivers or teachers. Explore our child and adolescent psychiatry services.
Include the teenager’s own concerns about school, friendships, routines and treatment goals. Discuss how parents will participate, how privacy is handled and how progress will be followed.
Bring examples of difficulties at work, home and in relationships, along with any available childhood history. ADHD begins in childhood even when it is recognized later. Your provider will consider the history and other explanations for current symptoms.
Medication may be part of treatment, along with behavioral strategies and therapy. Ask about possible benefits, side effects, alternatives and follow-up. An evaluation does not guarantee a prescription. Tell your provider about all medications and supplements.
Attention difficulties can overlap with anxiety, depression or sleep concerns. These conditions may also occur together. Discuss which symptoms began first and how they change across settings rather than trying to diagnose yourself from a checklist. Learn about anxiety care and depression care.
Planning, organizing and following through on tasks are examples of executive skills. Bring specific examples, such as missed deadlines or difficulty starting work. Frustration and emotional concerns also deserve discussion; they should not automatically be attributed to ADHD.
Bring current school plans, teacher observations and previous testing when available. Ask what documentation or coordination your clinician can offer. Contact the school about its evaluation process and available supports. A clinical diagnosis does not automatically establish eligibility for a 504 plan or IEP, and MVIH does not determine school eligibility.
Less disruptive attention symptoms can be overlooked. Girls, women and adults may seek an assessment after years of difficulty with organization or concentration. A thorough evaluation considers development and functioning rather than relying on a stereotype of hyperactivity.
Describe the timing, triggers and context of your symptoms, including any trauma history you feel comfortable discussing. Your provider can consider whether symptoms reflect ADHD, another concern or multiple conditions. Explore trauma-related care.
Contact Mesquite Valley Integrated Health at 480-509-7738. Our office is at 560 W Brown Rd, Suite 1011, Mesa, AZ 85201, serving Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert and the East Valley.
Our practice provides ADHD evaluation for children and adults. Call intake to confirm current age eligibility, the appropriate provider and appointment options.
Yes. They can occur together, and anxiety can also contribute to attention difficulties. A clinical assessment helps clarify the care plan.
Some people with ADHD experience frustration or difficulty regulating emotions. Tell your provider about these concerns so other contributing conditions can also be assessed.
Write down your main concerns, when they began, past care and goals. Bring relevant records and ask intake about insurance benefits, required paperwork and estimated costs.
Learn more: NIMH ADHD overview and NIH ADHD information.
Call 480-509-7738 to schedule an evaluation, or use our guide to getting mental health help.
Phone (appointments): (480) 509-7738
Office Fax: 480-856-9069
