Objective:

To evaluate the access of an early diagnosis of the ADHD and to identify its barriers by means of a trajectory of facts from perceiving the symptoms until obtaining the formal diagnosis.

Materials and methods:

An integral conceptual model has been used - based on four dimensions (perceive, search, arrive and use) - and centered on the patient; this has allowed to trace a trajectory of facts lived by the dyads (patient and their primary caregiver). The survey was composed of five open and 143 dichotomous or polytomous questions. 177 dyads participated.

Results:

Numerous barriers were identified to access the early diagnosis; the lack of perception of ADHD was key to initiate access.

Conclusion:

The lack of perception could be avoided with information to the caregivers so that they perceive the nuclear symptoms of ADHD as potential mental health problems.

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