A professional uses the symptoms checklist to make the diagnosis of ADHD. Behavior has persisted for at least six months and to such a degree that it is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level. Must present with six or more of the following:

1. Inattention

	Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
	Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
	Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
	Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).
	Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
	Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework).
	Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).
	Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
	Is often forgetful in daily activities.

2. Hyperactivity-Impulsivity

Hyperactivity

	Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.
	Often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected.
	Often runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness).
	Often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly.
	Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor".
	Often talks excessively.

Impulsivity

	Often blurts out answers before questions have been completed.
	Often has difficulty awaiting turn.
	Often interrupts or intrudes on others (conversations, games).