They bounce off the walls. They can’t complete the five steps needed to get out the door in the morning without multiple reminders. But they can focus all day when it comes to a favorite game or topic.
It has to be ADHD, right?
Answer: Maybe.
What Is ADHD? Understanding the Basics
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) — formerly known as ADD — is one of the most common childhood neurodevelopmental disorders. ADHD can look different in different people, but it usually includes a combination of challenges with paying attention, staying focused, controlling impulsive behaviors, or sitting still when expected. The symptoms have to be present in more than one setting and they have to interfere with the child’s daily life or learning. ADHD shows up mainly as inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, or a combination of both. The stigma surrounding this diagnosis (and other mental health concerns) has decreased in recent years. However, it’s still really important that we get the diagnosis right.
For some kids, the family history and current symptoms are clear enough that their pediatrician feels comfortable making the diagnosis.
However, other kids are a little more complicated. Their family history may include several different diagnoses. Their symptoms might look really different at home vs. school. Or they may meet a few criteria for several different conditions at once.
In those cases, a comprehensive ADHD evaluation completed by a psychologist can help clear up the questions and provide specific, evidence-based recommendations for how to support your child.
What Current Research Says About ADHD
Experts used to say that about 5% of kids have ADHD and that most grow out of it by adulthood. But research over the past decade paints a more nuanced picture of how ADHD develops and persists across the lifespan.
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Prevalence: About 11% of kids in the U.S. have received an ADHD diagnosis at some point.
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Symptom changes over time: Not everyone with ADHD follows the same course. Some people’s symptoms come and go depending on stress, supports, and life demands.
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ADHD in girls and women: Symptoms in girls are often more subtle — typically inattentive rather than hyperactive — making ADHD easier to miss or mislabel as anxiety or daydreaming.
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Coexisting conditions: Anxiety, depression, autism, learning disabilities, sleep problems, and even sensory processing challenges can occur alongside ADHD or mimic its symptoms.
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Comprehensive assessment matters: An accurate diagnosis usually includes a developmental history, information from multiple people and settings, and screening for coexisting conditions.
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Impact beyond school: ADHD doesn’t just affect classroom learning — it also influences social skills, emotional regulation, relationships, and work habits well into adulthood.
Why Accurate ADHD Testing Matters
Because ADHD overlaps with so many other conditions, it’s important to differentiate ADHD from other possible explanations for attention and behavior challenges. A clear diagnosis can prevent years of frustration — and open doors to the right kinds of supports.
What ADHD Testing Looks Like at Thrive Collective
At Thrive Collective, our ADHD testing process is personalized, thorough, and strengths-based. It typically includes:
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Intake Appointment – We start with a detailed interview to gather developmental history and current functioning.
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Personalized Testing Proposal – We recommend specific assessments tailored to your child’s needs. Testing may include measures of attention, reading, math, writing, social skills, and emotional regulation.
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Testing Sessions – 1–2 sessions in our office (or online for some adults).
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Comprehensive Report & Feedback – You’ll receive a clear report outlining results, recommendations, and next steps to support your child at home and school.
When to Consider ADHD Testing
Consider seeking an evaluation if your child:
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Struggles to stay on task even with reminders and routines
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Shows large differences in behavior between school and home
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Has trouble managing emotions or frustration
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Has a strong family history of ADHD or other neurodevelopmental conditions
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Seems bright and capable but underperforms academically or socially
The Takeaway
ADHD testing doesn’t just give you a label — it gives you a roadmap.
A thorough evaluation helps you understand your child’s unique brain, uncover strengths, and build the right supports so they can thrive at home, school, and beyond.