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Attention and learning difficulties: where to start

Inattention does not always mean ADHD. Sleep, anxiety, vision, hearing, language and learning difficulties can look similar.

Make observations specific

Note where and when the difficulty appears: in one subject or all tasks, at home and school, early in the day or when tired. Ask the teacher for concrete examples.

Do not rely on one test

There is no single diagnostic test for ADHD. Assessment considers information from more than one setting, developmental history and alternative explanations.

Useful first steps

Review sleep, vision and hearing, task difficulty and emotional wellbeing. Bring schoolwork, previous reports and a list of focused questions to the consultation.

This material is for general information and does not replace individual assessment, medical advice or emergency care.

Sources

  1. CDC — Diagnosing ADHD
  2. American Academy of Pediatrics — ADHD Clinical Practice Guideline