AS&E Students
Arts and Sciences, Engineering, SMFA at Tufts
TUFTS.EDU
AS&E Students
Arts and Sciences, Engineering, SMFA at Tufts
Counseling and Mental Health Service

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Resources

What if I think I have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? 

Diagnosis of ADHD requires a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. This includes a detailed clinical interview; review of developmental, academic, and psychosocial history; assessment of functional impairment in a variety of circumstances; and consideration of collateral information and prior records when available. Many psychiatric conditions have symptoms which overlap with ADHD, and a thorough diagnostic evaluation using DSM-V-TR criteria is essential to rule out other conditions and to determine a diagnosis of ADHD.

Can I be evaluated for ADHD at CMHS?

Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, including assessment for ADHD, is offered through CMHS. The evaluation will likely require more than one meeting. Stimulant medications are not prescribed during the assessment period and are not always the recommended treatment when a diagnosis of ADHD is made.

Some things to know about receiving ADHD evaluation and treatment at CMHS

  • There may be fees associated with psychiatric services at CMHS
  • Regular appointments with your psychiatric provider are required
  • Medical assessments (vital signs, weight, electrocardiogram) are required as directed by your psychiatric provider
  • Stimulant medications are controlled substances. Before initiating treatment, students and their provider will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and side-effects, as well as risks of misuse and diversion. Students are required to read and adhere to the Controlled Substance Treatment Agreement (we will provide a link when it becomes available)
  • Recommendations may include non-medication treatments/supports, such as StAAR Center support, academic accommodations, sleep hygiene, exercise, avoidance of substances, ADHD skills training
  • If you have co-occurring mental health conditions, concurrent counseling may be recommended 

Can CMHS assist with a referral to a community provider for ADHD evaluation and treatment?

Yes. The following practices and resources offer evaluation for ADHD:

A Note About Neuropsychological Testing

Students who anticipate requesting academic accommodations for standardized tests used in the admissions process for graduate and professional programs (LSAT, MCAT, GRE, GMAT) should be aware that to qualify, neuropsychological testing may be required. CMHS does not offer neuropsychological testing. The practices and resources above provide local options for testing.