An electroencephalogram, or EEG, is a test that records the brain's electrical activity through small sensors placed on the scalp, without needles or surgery.
EEG is mainly used to investigate epilepsy, seizures and some sleep conditions. It is painless.
Researchers have studied EEG patterns in ADHD for decades. Group differences have been reported, and they vary between studies. EEG is not part of standard ADHD or autism assessment in Ireland or the UK.
If someone offers to diagnose ADHD from an EEG or a brain scan alone, be cautious. Diagnosis comes from a clinical assessment of your history and your current life. That takes conversation, questionnaires and someone who knew you as a child. No recording of electrical activity can replace it.