Introduction

Children are funloving creatures and tend to be hyperactive tiny beings, screaming and running around. It may be hard for a few to stay quiet or stop fidgeting because they are always in search of doing something ‘fun.’ However, nothing satisfies them, and they keep trying to find an adventurous route through their life till they get exhausted and fall asleep – that’s a parent’s golden hour. But keeping that in mind, parents and therapists may mistake genuine ADHD symptoms for childish traits, or mental health professionals may end up misdiagnosing them because ADHD does share many similarities with other mental disorders. If you want to learn more about: What are the most commonly misdiagnosed symptoms of ADHD? Then keep reading.

As a concerned parent or caregiver, you should be fully aware and educated about how therapists proceed with their ADHD diagnosis and should be able to identify any inaccuracies in ADHD testing to ensure that the child’s mental health is given priority.

Stop! Are you a conscientious parent who wants to give the best to your child? Then book an appointment with us today to benefit from our services.

Reasons Why Attention Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Is Misdiagnosed 

Findings from a study of 50 pediatric practices showed that an estimated 50% of doctors used diagnostic guidelines from at least two sources before reaching a conclusion and making an ADHD diagnosis, but 93% of the prescribed medications to treat the condition.

Other than ADHD being a complicated mental disorder and having similarities with other mental/mood disorders, there are a few more reasons for misdiagnosing ADHD. Previously, experts believed ADHD to be a childhood disorder, but now they recognize it continues into adulthood and requires continuous treatment.

Another theory behind many misdiagnoses is that young girls socially hide their behaviors and learn to adapt more quickly than boys. In other words, the behavioral expectations aren’t consistent among the sexes, leading to a misdiagnosis.

Most women may experience primary symptoms (like inattentiveness instead of hyperactivity). Yet ADHD is easily diagnosed in men and ignored in women. In addition to this, boys generally feel more comfortable culturally acting on their whims and being highly energetic, which may lead to overdiagnosis. This doesn’t mean that those boys have ADHD.

Which Symptoms in Children with ADHD Are Usually Misdiagnosed?

As we mentioned before, ADHD symptoms overlap with signs and symptoms of other mental health disorders. Here’s a list of a few commonly misdiagnosed symptoms of ADHD that may mislead doctors and misdiagnose the patient:

• Sleeping problems
• Immaturity
• Weak memory
• Oppositional behavior
• Social awkwardness
• Your child becomes easily distracted
• Depression

What To Do If The ADHD Testing Results Are Inaccurate?

If you feel that your doctor misdiagnosed you or your child, then here are a few steps you should take before meeting your doctor:

• Create a list of your symptoms and note the severity and cues that trigger that response.
• Be open and honest while communicating with your doctor; they will help you make the right decisions.
• Consider bringing a friend or family member to ensure all the information is communicated accurately.
• Numerous healthcare systems offer easy access to your test results, diagnoses, medications, and treatment plans so learn how to access medical records.

Sources:

Wondering what the best treatment for ADHD is? We know that you want the best for your child, and we are here to provide you with premium therapy services to treat ADHD and help you or your child lead a better life. To start the recovery journey, don’t forget to visit our website to access our outstanding services.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/adhd-misdiagnosis

https://www.getinflow.io/post/misdiagnoses-adhd

https://www.verywellmind.com/4-disorders-that-can-be-misdiagnosed-adhd-5221708