## DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for ADHD: Duration Requirement **Key Point:** DSM-5 mandates a **minimum symptom duration of 6 months** for an ADHD diagnosis in all age groups (children, adolescents, and adults). ### Duration Criterion Details - Symptoms must be present for **at least 6 consecutive months** - This duration requirement applies regardless of age at presentation - The 6-month period must demonstrate **persistent and pervasive** symptoms across multiple settings (home, school, work) ### Why 6 Months? - Distinguishes ADHD from **transient behavioral responses** to acute stressors (e.g., parental separation, school transition) - Allows differentiation from **adjustment disorders** (which typically resolve within 6 months) - Ensures symptoms are **trait-like** rather than **state-dependent** ### Additional DSM-5 Diagnostic Requirements (Beyond Duration) | Criterion | Requirement | |-----------|-------------| | **Symptom count** | ≥6 inattention symptoms OR ≥6 hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms (age ≤16 yrs); ≥5 of either for age >16 yrs | | **Age of onset** | Several symptoms present before age 12 years | | **Functional impairment** | Clear evidence of functional impairment in ≥2 settings (academic, occupational, social) | | **Exclusion** | Not better explained by another mental disorder, medical condition, or substance use | **High-Yield:** The **6-month duration** is a high-yield fact frequently tested in NEET PG. Do not confuse with 3-month (too short) or 12-month (ICD-11 threshold for some conditions, but NOT ADHD). **Mnemonic:** **6-MONTH RULE** = Minimum duration for ADHD diagnosis (DSM-5)
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