No single test can diagnose a child as having ADHD. Children mature at different rates and have different personalities, temperaments and energy levels. Most children get distracted, act impulsively, and struggle to concentrate at one time or another. Therefore, a licensed health professional needs to gather information about the child’s behaviour and environment.
The most common type of medication used for treating ADHD is called a stimulant. These stimulants have the opposite effect in a child with ADHD and can reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity and improve their ability to focus. However, a one size fits all approach does not apply for all children with ADHD. The most common side effects of these stimulants include reduced appetite, sleep problems, anxiety and irritability.